I grew up in Cali, Colombia, a city with one of the highest murder rates in the world during the 90s. The year I was born, homicides were not just frequent—they were the leading cause of death, surpassing even cardiovascular disease. Trauma shaped the reality of my community, leaving scars far deeper than the headlines.

Later in life, as a trauma researcher, I came to understand that trauma's impact extends far beyond those who lose their lives. Survivors carry an enormous burden—physically, mentally, socially, and financially. The long-term consequences of traumatic injuries are profound and often overlooked. Yet despite being one of the leading causes of death and disability around the world, trauma remains grossly underfunded (less than 2% of federal research funding).

Since 2018, when I joined the Marathon Team, I’ve had the privilege of being part of the Stepping Strong family in various roles, and I’ve witnessed the transformative power of their work in advancing trauma research and care. Through the work they support, Stepping Strong brings hope and healing to countless individuals and families, filling a critical gap that few others address.

As a runner, qualifying for the Boston Marathon was a huge milestone I dreamed of for many years. I’m thrilled to return to the world’s greatest marathon, not just as a faster runner but as an advocate for a cause that holds deep personal meaning to me. It is an honor to represent Stepping Strong and contribute to their mission of turning tragedy into hope. Please consider supporting Stepping Strong.