My Story

It seems appropriate that the first phrase I learned in American Sign Language was, “Good run!” I will be using those signs frequently as I train for the 2024 London Marathon in support of Deaf Action, a charity that supports and celebrates deaf people. 

I first learned to sign "Good run!" in December of 2018. I had just finished a workout with a friend who is deaf, and he taught me those signs after we finished. As the two of us ran more together, he taught me more and more signs. During the Covid pandemic, I began studying ASL more seriously through online classes, and I learned that ASL is a rich language with its own grammar, syntax, and rules. Today I continue my learning through frequent online classes.

Not only have I enjoyed the challenge of learning a new language -- I’ve also learned a great deal about the deaf community and about the importance of deaf inclusion. Over the past few years, I’ve become friends with several deaf and hard of hearing people, and all of them have helped me to gain an understanding of why they deserve to be heard and understood. By serving as a bridge between hearing and deaf people, I hope to show others how we can work together to improve the lives of deaf individuals.

As I train for the 2024 London Marathon, I join Deaf Action in their mission to empower all deaf people to achieve their potential and fully participate in society, with equality of rights, access, and opportunity. I hope you'll join me in this effort!