As a Cuban American, the plight of the Cuban people has long been near and dear to my heart and a few months ago, it dawned on me: “Wouldn’t it be fantastic if we could raise money to take wheelchairs to people with disabilities in this impoverished nation so close to our own?” So I decided that the time has come for me to get off the sidelines and make this idea a reality and after months of training, on March 17th I am running the NY City half marathon with the goal of raising $25,000 for Walkabout!

On November 4, 2012, I will take part in the New York Marathon, running 26.2 miles through New York’s five boroughs.

In order to prepare for the race, I started a rigorous training schedule last February. My daily routine, rain or shine, starts at 5am and has given me stronger legs, a few blisters and sore muscles along the way. I have finished 9 races and feel like I’m in my best shape ever.

While my primary goal is to finish the marathon, my true motivation to take on this challenge is the ability to help the Walkabout Foundation. Every dollar I raise will be used to donate RoughRider wheelchairs in the Dominican Republic. When I cross the finish line, I will know that my efforts will have helped someone not only gain mobility, but also the freedom, dignity and independence that come with it.

I hope you join me in this cause, and I thank you in advance for your generosity.

I would also like to thank my cousins Luis and Carolina, founders of the Walkabout Foundation, for inspiring me to make a difference.