In a previous post, I shared a disappointing experience trying to register for a runDisney race. Not long after that, registration day came around again. This time it was for the 2027 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.
Even though I’d made peace with not being able to secure a bib for any of the October 2026 races, I felt a sense of apprehension leading up to this registration day because I was planning to try something new. For some time, I’d felt a gentle pull toward attempting a full marathon again.
In 2021, I ran my first and only full marathon. I’d originally registered for the 2021 Walt Disney World Marathon, but when the in-person race was canceled due to the pandemic, I chose the virtual option and completed my miles in New Hampshire at a race that was still being held. It was one of the most painful and challenging things I’ve ever done. Although I followed my training plan faithfully, I felt unprepared on race day. I was happy and thankful to finish, but walked away thinking I’d never do it again.
At least, that’s what I thought then.
Something began to shift. In February of 2026, on a whim, I entered the lottery for the New York City Marathon. When I wasn’t selected, I felt both relief and disappointment. The disappointment caught me off guard. It made me pause and ask myself if maybe my heart had changed. Maybe I did want to try again. Maybe this is the right time. I’m not getting any younger!
As the runDisney registration day approached, I spent a lot of time in prayer and quiet reflection. The full marathon event only happens once each year. I knew if I missed out again on being able to register, I’d be out of luck for another year. That is, unless I chose a very different path.
Disney partners with various charities for these running events, and runners can sometimes secure a registration by raising money for the charity. While I’ve always admired those who do this, the idea of fundraising has always felt intimidating to me. It requires stepping outside of my comfort zone in a very visible way that isn’t natural or easy for me.
So on registration day, that wasn’t the route I wanted to take. But, God had other plans!
Just like before, I didn’t get into any of the races. Every race sold out while I was waiting in the queue. I sat there in disbelief, feeling that familiar wave of disappointment. Then, in the silence that followed, a thought surfaced gently but clearly. You said you’d run the full marathon for a charity if you didn’t get in. If you really want this, you’ll do it.
I wrestled with that thought for a while. I tried to reason my way around it. I told myself that maybe if I could find a charity that truly meant something to me, then I’d consider it.
So I began to look. There it was: American Brain Tumor Association.
In 2004, I lost my husband to a brain tumor. I share more about this in my memoir, Looking Back and Running Forward. During the early days of diagnosis and treatment, ABTA was one of the resources we turned to for information and support. Seeing their name brought back so many memories, but it also reminded me of how meaningful their work is for families walking through incredibly difficult circumstances.
At that moment, the decision became clear.
I was scared of the distance. I was scared of letting others know what I was doing. I was scared of the fundraising commitment. But I also felt a sense of purpose I couldn’t ignore. This was more than a race. It was an opportunity to honor my husband’s memory and to support others who are facing a similar journey.
Sometimes God leads us in ways that stretch us beyond what feels comfortable or safe. Sometimes the door we hoped would open stays closed so that we’ll notice the one He’s quietly placing in front of us instead. What feels like disappointment can become direction when we’re willing to listen.
I didn’t know exactly how this journey would unfold, and I expected it to be difficult, but I chose to step forward in faith, trusting that God would provide what was needed each step of the way.
Wherever you find yourself today, whether you’re facing disappointment or standing at the edge of something new, I pray you’re reminded that God sees you, He’s guiding you, and He can use even the unexpected turns in your story for something meaningful.
