“I’ve been running since around 2013. I run because I am a 17 year Breast Cancer survivor so running makes me feel strong and healthy. I had more asthma and allergy difficulties before running and those have gotten better. Also running just makes me feel happy (after I’m done). I’ve always wanted to run this race but just haven’t been able to make it work with the packet pickup since I’m from Aiken, SC. Also, I love running with bells on my shoes! I try to run three times per week for 3-4 miles during the weekday evenings and building up mileage on the weekend–so maybe from 4-8 slow miles on weekends. I had been able to run 6 miles so knew that I could run the Jingle Jam. The hills surprised me though–it was a difficult run! I just want to stay healthy and keep running with my friends. I plan to participate in a 3 week fitness challenge to strengthen my core muscles that support the lower back. Also I plan to run the 3 Bridges 10K in Augusta in early March.”