I was born and raised in Cottonwood Heights. I have always considered Big Cottonwood Canyon my backyard. In December of 2009, we experienced a tragedy in our small town.

My best friend and neighbor, Missy Livingston, passed away at the young age of 19. I was young and hadn't had to experience many difficult things in my life. This, however, was very different. It was the hardest thing that I ever had to go through.

I held on tight to my fond memories with Missy. I can't drive through Cottonwood Heights without reliving hundreds of beautiful moments shared with her, the canyon being some of the most special ones.

Shortly after Missy passed away, her family discovered her bucket list. Her mom gave me a copy. I made a commitment to myself and her loved ones that I would accomplish her bucket list in honor of her. One of the items on her list was to run a marathon. I wanted to save the Big Cottonwood Marathon for Missy. It is home to all of our memories, and it just seemed like the ideal run.

Training for this marathon was the most therapeutic thing for me. Every single run, I got to relive the wonderful memories that I was lucky enough to share with Missy. I felt like I got stronger with every mile, and I believe that running this marathon was the best way to remember her.