My name is Shane, and I’m a part-time Exercise Physiology instructor at the college level, as well as a full-time stay-at-home dad to two amazing little girls. Running has been a defining part of my life ever since I joined my high school track team in 2009. That passion carried me through college, where I became a Division II All-American, and led me to compete post-collegiately in Austin, Texas. After two years of racing, I transitioned into coaching at the collegiate level, spending seven years coaching at two different universities.Over the past 15 years, running has been intertwined with a series of life-changing experiences. As both a student-athlete and a coach, I've faced the heartbreaking loss of teammates and athletes to suicide. Mental health is a growing crisis, particularly among youth, and I believe social media has only amplified these challenges. Through Run-4, my goal is to raise awareness and provide support for communities experiencing mental health crises—particularly student-athletes and veterans.Another pivotal moment in my life came while I was living in Austin and working at a physical therapy clinic. There, I met a woman with Down syndrome who had just started running—her name is Kayleigh Williamson. Since that first meeting in 2016, Kayleigh has completed more than 20 half marathons and three full marathons. I’ve had the privilege of running alongside her and her mom, guiding her through both her first half marathon and her first full marathon.Witnessing Kayleigh’s journey has shown me firsthand how running can transform lives. Beyond the physical benefits, running has provided Kayleigh with a sense of community and social connection that many people with disabilities—both mental and physical—often miss out on. Too many people with disabilities feel isolated or excluded from experiences like youth sports, and my goal with Run-4 is to help break down these barriers. I want to challenge the stigma around disabled athletes and create more access to athletics through running.Ultimately, I believe running is more than just a sport—it’s a powerful tool for healing, both mentally and physically, and it connects people from all walks of life. Through Run-4, I hope to inspire others to embrace the power of movement, community, and inclusion.