35 for 35: Pete Pirone's Birthday Run for Autism Awareness
Last year, on my 34th birthday, I developed a goal: to become my healthiest self before turning 35 on July 10th. Running has become an integral part of that journey-from setting monthly mileage goals to pushing for that extra mile or 2 during a tough run.
And so, as I approach my 35th birthday, I’ve created my biggest challenge yet: running 35 miles over 48 hours. I’ll begin my challenge on July 9th and break up the miles over two days, “crossing” the proverbial finish line on my birthday, July 10th.
While this presents a fantastic personal challenge for myself, I wanted to take the opportunity to do some good and create some awareness.
Autism is very near and dear to my heart. My godson, Luca, is on the spectrum. With the help of his family, friends, and community, he is able to push boundaries and go outside of his comfort zone day in and day out. The many resources afforded to him—from speech, occupational, and movement therapy, to social skills groups, and other programs and assistance—have helped him to grow and branch out, making new friends, graduating into a Gen. Ed classroom, and most of all: having the confidence to showcase his incredible, warm, loving personality.
I’m so excited to partner with the LIAM foundation for my birthday challenge and to ring in my 35th year by raising money for a tremendous cause and bringing awareness and understanding to Autism.
