'Anesthesia STAT to OB triage' - these words changed my life forever. One moment I was a blissfully pregnant first time mom, and soon thereafter I was rushed to the operating room to meet my son (two months early). I didn't get to hold him or see him as he was whisked away with the neonatal resuscitation team. 

I sat in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) day after day with my 3 pound beautiful baby boy, Elliot. After the roller coaster of emotions the NICU brings, we were sent home with our healthy baby boy. 

I survived; I did it, or at least I thought I did. My emotions were tenuous and I was so angry; I felt so alone. What could I do? I could walk- so I did. I'd walk until I couldn't anymore, then as my strength came back I started running. One step at time, through the trails, music loud enough to drown out my thoughts- it was healing. No one to push me, no one to run the miles for me; just me. I was stronger than I thought. 

I have run heartbroken, I have run angry, I have run sad, but I have also run with a smile on my face as I continue to prove to myself that I am stronger and braver than I ever believed. 

I am honored to be chosen as a team member of 'Still I Run' for the Berlin, Germany Marathon. This organization is the nation's first nonprofit dedicated to promoting the benefits of running for mental health. 

I am running for my two beautiful boys, Elliot and Asher, who have shown me again and again that I can do hard things. I am running for my babies that I carried but never met. I am running for every single person who has struggled through their own challenges. 

To my family and friends who have supported me along the way; a thank you will never suffice. 

I'm coming for you Germany! Let's do this!