Running the 2018 Charlotte Marathon for Taylor

By Laura King Edwards

In 2013, I put on a blindfold, summoned an ounce of my sister’s courage and ran the half marathon at Charlotte’s largest road race. When I crossed the finish line one hour and 59 minutes later, I knew I could never repeat the magic of that moment.

Mom and Laura at finish line

But I can conjure up a new kind of magic.

That’s why, on November 3, 2018, I’ll run the Novant Health Charlotte Half Marathon blindfolded one more time. I’m thrilled and humbled to get another shot at the experience that inspired my first book (hitting shelves the week of this year’s race) and 2017 TEDx talk.

I hope you’ll help me turn the city purple for Taylor, who completed her first 5K at this event 10 years ago — not long after losing her vision to Batten disease. Today is Global Running Day, making it the perfect time to begin working toward a personal goal (whether that be running your first half or full marathon, finishing your first 5K or simply getting involved in an incredible cause).

Join me at the 2018 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon and run or walk one of five distances:

  • Marathon
  • Half marathon
  • Marathon relay
  • 5K
  • Kids’ 1-mile run

 

IMPORTANT: Sign up at http://bit.ly/run4taylor. When you select your race distance, make sure your team name, ‘Taylor’s Tale,’ is selected.

If desired, you can up the ante by fundraising through your own run/walk or donating to support a friend’s effort. Donate Now

Why will you wear purple for Taylor? Share your own story with us in the coming months by using the hashtag #4taylor on social media. Give us a glimpse of your own training — the good, the bad and the ugly — or tell the world what running for Taylor means to you.

Whatever your speed — run, walk or cheer — I  hope you’ll join us for the race and other events that weekend (stay tuned for details). Happy running (or walking)!