Kim
1st New York City Marathon
Kim is excited to join United Way of Long Island’s Team Mission United, raising funds for veterans and Long Islanders affected by COVID-19 ahead of this fall's New York City Marathon.
The cause hits close to home for Kim, whose stepfather completed three tours in Vietnam. Her grandfather also served in the Army, while one of her close friends is a Purple Heart recipient. Growing up in a military family, she came to appreciate veterans through their stories.
“I completely believe in supporting veterans,” Kim said. “They’re protecting us, so once they’re out, it’s a good thing to take care of them and make sure that after they’ve helped us, we help them. I believe all veterans should be taken care of after sacrificing themselves for our freedom.”
For as long as she can remember, Kim has loved the outdoors. About 10 years ago, she discovered a passion for hiking. Kim is working towards becoming a 46er – a club of hikers who reach the summit of all 46 high peaks in the Adirondack Mountains. Working alongside the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the 46ers strive to preserve wilderness.
For Kim, being outdoors provides a way to escape congested parts of Long Island. That sentiment paved the way for her to begin running recreationally over the last half decade. Kim always ran as part of sports while growing up, but after making new friends at a fitness center a few years ago, she joined a local running group, Running on Fumes.
Kim has been open about her battle with depression and anxiety, and Running on Fumes provides a strong support system. She began running multiple times per week, which served as a way to unplug at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic last year.
“Just as well as PTSD, I believe mental health should be spoken about and not hidden,” Kim said. “I suffer really bad from depression and anxiety and last year, when COVID first hit, I was running like crazy because there was really nothing else I could do.” Since Kim began running, she has completed multiple half marathons, trail runs and even a triathlon. This year, she’s using her passion to raise funds for a cause that has made a major difference in her life.
