My name is Kayleigh Williamson. I'm 31 years old and I'm a Marathon Finisher. I have a jacket that says so on the back to remind myself of my accomplishments and also to prove it to the world. Prior to being a marathon finisher, I was barely even a runner. If I had a jacket at that point in time it may have said "Overweight, pre-diabetic, low blood platelets, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, sleep apnea with Down syndrome". I love the sound of Marathon Finisher way better than that. My mother was told everything I couldn't do. I don't focus on those things. Only on things, I can do with a lot of commitment, dedication, and stick-to-itness.
With a lot of help from my mom, encouragement from my late grandmother, dedication from my trainers, expertise from Weight Watchers, and an undeniable spirit, I've changed my course. I became the first woman with Down syndrome to complete the Austin Marathon and will soon be running as a Kyle Pease Foundation Athlete in the Boston Marathon in April of 2022. This is a dream come true. In addition to running and supporting The Kyle Pease Foundation, whose mission is to improve the lives of people with disabilities through sports, I will be Runner 321. Runner321 refers to Trisomy 21 (tri-21), the medical name for Down Syndrome. The Adidas company has ensured that the 321 spots are secured each year for people with a cognitive disability that wants to run a marathon, to ensure they too are represented. Adidas will cover most of our expenses to Boston while funds raised here will help in my training, transportation, and entry into other events. My ultimate goal is to complete a half-marathon in every state and with your help, I'm well on my way.
It is an absolute dream come true to be running the Boston Marathon representing two such incredible organizations. It is actually a dream come true to be running at all. But need I remind you? I am a Marathon Finisher.
