The devastation of Hurricane Helene.
What an emotional few weeks it's beenβ¦ π My heart goes out to everyone affected by the devastation of Hurricane Helene. πͺοΈπ The Appalachian Trail ποΈ has always been a second home to me β its beauty, its challenge, its people β and to see so many towns and communities along the trail facing such hardship is heartbreaking. π§ Iβve spent countless hours running those mountains, feeling the embrace of nature and the warmth of trail towns ποΈ that now need our help more than ever. π²π
This journey Iβve been on β pushing my limits on the trails, setting FKTs β±οΈ, and embracing the ultrarunning community πββοΈ β has always been about more than just personal achievements. Itβs about the incredible people who support, encourage, and lift each other up. π The running community, like the trail, is resilient. And in the face of challenges, whether it's an ultramarathon or the aftermath of a hurricane, we keep moving forward, together. π«π¬ππͺ
The FKTs, the medals π , the personal bests β they all pale in comparison to the strength of community. To everyone who has cheered me on, offered me a place to rest, shared a meal, or just smiled when I was deep in the miles β THANK YOU. π Youβre a part of this journey as much as I am, and Iβm so grateful to have shared the trails with you. π
As I reflect on my own journey β the ups and downs, the tough climbs ποΈ, and the rewarding descents π β I canβt help but think of the people now rebuilding their lives along the Appalachian Trail. Together, we can support them. Whether itβs through donations, volunteer efforts, or just spreading awareness, letβs rally behind these incredible communities. ππ€
The trail has given me so much β strength, resilience, joy β and now itβs our turn to give back. π± If we all contribute, no matter how small, we can make a difference. Letβs rise like the mountains we love and bring hope to those who need it most. ποΈπͺ
There are always more miles to run, more challenges to face, and more records to chase β but today, itβs about the power of people coming together. ππββοΈ Letβs be there for one another, just like the trail has always been there for us. ππ