10 miles for 10k

In the fall of 2021, several months after giving birth to our twins, I was diagnosed with a severe case of postpartum depression. My life and my family's world was flipped upside down. On a list of symptoms for PPD, I checked off almost every box and most days I couldn't function normally. In my darkest moments, I almost ended my own life (an admission I still struggle with today). The anguish and hopelessness I felt was immeasurable. With the support of my doctors, therapist, and close circle of family and friends, I was able to begin my long road to recovery and finally find my way back to myself again. Unfortunately, there are many women whose story do not end this way.

The Alexis Joy Foundation was created to honor the memory of Alexis Joy D'Achille, who lost her life to postpartum depression six weeks after her daughter was born. I hold Alexis, her story, and this foundation very close to my heart. Its mission is to help women and families who are suffering from and affected by perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, in partnership with the Allegheny Health Network.

On August 5th, I will be running in honor of Alexis and the countless women who have fought and suffered from this terrible (and often unspoken about) condition at the Captain Bill Gallagher 10 Mile Island Run in Sea Isle City, NJ.

ANY amount counts in helping reach towards my $10,000 goal. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

-Rachel