Last weekend, a historic minute unfolded as 33-year-old Kayleigh Williamson endedupbeing one of the veryfirst ladies with Down syndrome to successfully total the New York City Marathon. Her mom Sandy Williamson, who ran by her child’s side, shared that the 10-hour journey was filled with dancing, warm hugs, and numerous high-fives.
This isn’t her veryfirst marathon.
Kayleigh is no newcomer to the world of running. She has formerly finished the Boston Marathon, 21 miles of the Austin Marathon, and an impressive 20 half-marathons. Kayleigh’s journey into running started in 2017 when her mom was detected with Alzheimer’s. “I implemented some healthy wayoflife options,” Sandy discussed, “Kayleigh desired to do some races with me.”
Since then, Sandy states that her child has established a deep love for running. Kayleigh and Sandy have upcoming prepares, consistingof a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day and half-marathons in December, January, and February. Kayleigh amounts up her love for running by saying, “I like to run since it makes me feel delighted.”
Kayleigh tookpart in the marathon to honor her grandma, who unfortunately passed away in 2021.
Her journey held a deep significance as it allowed her to fulfill a cherished dream of her late grandma. Her granny frequently spoke about taking her to New York City to see the vacation lights, and this marathon significant Kayleigh’s initially time in the state. To honor her grandmother and raise Alzheimer’s awareness, Kayleigh used a shirt that checkout, “Running in memory of my grandma, memories matter, Alzheimer’s awareness.”
Kayleigh’s mother is endlessly proud of her.
Reflecting on her child’s experience at the New York City Marathon, Sandy, 56, revealed, “New York altered the method I saw my daughter. Every time she heard music she