Roselyn: Not Only for the Medals

My name is Roselyn and I am 12 years old. I am a 7th grader at Ellen Ochoa Learning Center, in the city of Cudahy. This is my first year running with SRLA and so far I can say that I am loving the challenge.

The very first time I ran with SRLA, was the LADF 5K at Dodgers Stadium. I felt really nervous, my stomach was hurting, I just didn't know what to expect. My coach Berny has always been very supportive of me and all the team. While I was running, I saw many people cheering not only for me but everyone else, which made me feel very comfortable. I felt very special and at that moment I knew I could do it. My mom and my siblings were waiting for me at the finish line, which made it feel even more special.

The SRLA 18-mile Friendship Run was a bit challenging. I was sick the last couple of days and was not feeling like I was able to run. I felt nervous, thinking I was not going to make it. I had a hard time getting to the finish line. I really felt weak but nothing was stopping me. I kept telling myself, “Roselyn you can do it, don’t give up”. Thanks to one of the coaches for staying with me throughout the race, that helped me a lot, even though I didn’t get to the finish line as fast as I wanted to.

I decided to join SRLA for many reasons. First of all, I want to make my family proud. I want the world to know that nothing is impossible. With dedication and hard work everything is possible. I joined SRLA not only for the medals, but because I love to run even though it’s a bit challenging at times.

My older brother joined SRLA last year. He is my inspiration. He is the one who motivated me to join SRLA, not only for the medals but because it is a very supportive team. SRLA helps me have a healthy life and good grades. I want to thank my coach, Berny for always believing in me. Thank you for pushing me and the team. Thank you for training us for the big day of the marathon.

I learned a lot from the Friendship Run. Yes, I’m nervous but...YES! I AM READY FOR THE 26 MILE MARATHON. With the help of Coach Berny, Ellen Ochoa  Learning Center is ready for the Marathon.

Thank you SRLA for allowing me to join this awesome team. I will run next year and all the other years possible.

Make a donation today to support Roselyn and her teammates on their journey to the Marathon finish line. All donations made during the month of March will be matched, dollar for dollar up to $5000, by the Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation.