This April, I will be joining Tough Ruck Nation to complete a marathon with a weighted rucksack (basically a backpack), honoring the sacrifices of fallen military heroes and first responders. Tough Ruck 26.2 Boston is an elite group of 1,000 who ruck to ensure that the names of the Fallen are never forgotten. We carry their stories on our backs, and in doing so, we carry their legacy forward.
As an immigrant and a passionate advocate for accessibility, I believe that honoring our service members and first responders goes beyond remembrance—it’s about ensuring they and their families have the resources they need. Accessibility isn’t just about ramps and accommodations; it’s about making sure those who have served us, whether in the military or as first responders, have access to quality care, support systems, and opportunities to thrive.
Why This Mission Matters to Me
I had the privilege of hearing firsthand the stories of veterans while serving as both an alumni and counselor for the American Legion’s Arkansas Boys State program. Sitting down with those who served, listening to their experiences of courage, resilience, and sacrifice, I was deeply moved. Their stories were not just about battles fought overseas but about the ongoing fight for support, recognition, and dignity here at home. They shaped my understanding of service—not just in uniform, but as a civilian committed to uplifting those who have given so much.
That is why I am rucking—to honor those who can no longer walk alongside us and to support those still fighting battles we may not see. The funds raised through this effort go directly to providing essential resources for our friends and their families, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they deserve.
The History & Impact of Tough Ruck
On April 15, 2013, Tough Ruckers were at the finish line of the Boston Marathon when tragedy struck. In the wake of the bombings, they did not hesitate—they ran towards danger, helping the injured, standing alongside first responders, and embodying the best of what it means to serve. Today, the Tough Ruck takes place the weekend before Boston Marathon Monday, standing as the only official ruck march partnered with the Boston Marathon. Finishers receive the official Boston Marathon Medal and recognition from the Boston Athletic Association.
How You Can Support
This is where I need your help. The basic ideal behind this effort is simple: as much as our warriors and their families have sacrificed, they deserve our support in their hour of need. Your tax-deductible donation is more than a contribution—it is a lifeline, helping provide critical funds for military families and first responders.
If you believe, as I do, that we have a responsibility to honor, remember, and support those who serve, I ask you to join me. Whether through a donation, sharing this mission, or simply taking a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made, every effort matters.
