Class is in session! Anne Arundel County teacher Lindsey has joined Casey Cares 5K!

For Lindsey, a retired gymnast and kindergarten teacher, running has become a way to prioritize her mental and physical well-being. She shares, "I am a retired gymnast, and I missed the dedication and competition of an organized sport. Running helps me stay in shape and competing in a race or against my personal best helps me relive the competitiveness of gymnastics."

The best part of running for Lindsey is the mental aspect. "Running helps me disconnect from the stress of life. It's just me, my running shoes, and the pavement underneath me. I love being outside and will run outside (in any weather) over running on the treadmill any day!" she says. Lindsey's must-haves for running include her running shoes, a trail, and an "I can do this!" attitude.

Lindsey's advice for those just starting to incorporate running or walking into their lifestyle is simple: "Enjoy it. Get out there, on the treadmill or outside, and move your body! Run or walk to escape life, find clarity, challenge yourself, and be present in the moment. Focus less on your time or how fast you are and more on showing up for yourself!"

It was her goal to run in one 5K race every month in 2024 that led Lindsey to discover the Casey Cares 5K. "I discovered the Casey Cares race online and decided to sign up for this race in August. I selected this race above the others because of who the race supports. I wanted to race to raise money for families with critically ill children, especially since I am a Kindergarten teacher!" she explains.

Every runner (and walker!) in our race has a reason for joining but the most popular reason is to support the kids in our programs as they continually battle critical illnesses. Your registration helps bring them a day of much needed joy and fun with their family through Casey Cares' exciting activities and programs. Sign up here for our 15th Annual 5K/1-Mile Walk at the Maryland Zoo on August 3rd!