In Memory of Laura Frattaroli

On October 31, 2022, my beautiful sister Laura passed away after a hard-fought battle with domestic violence, mental illness, and addiction. Laura loved adventures, whether hiking, running, going for long drives, traveling to new places, or grabbing a cup of coffee at a local cafe - she was always up for it. We would often go on runs together - well, we would start together, but she would leave me in the dust every time and then lap me with a smirk as she ran by.

Throughout Laura's battle, an amazing organization, The Center for Empowerment and Education, offered incredibly impactful services to her. So, this year, I'm raising money to support the organization in its mission to end violence against individuals, families, and the community with prevention, crisis intervention and support services with regard to domestic violence, sexual assault and other major life crises.

The money donated to The Center for Empowerment and Education will help fund services such as counseling, crisis intervention, safe housing, support groups, and more. To read more about the services they offer, you can visit their site directly: https://thecenterct.org/.

I ran my first half marathon in June of 2022 while Laura spent the day in the hospital. When I wanted to give up around mile 10, I thought about her and how she would have loved to be running with me (though probably would have been way ahead of me), and that helped push me through to the finish line. I am running for her again this year.

I'll be running the Fairfield Half Marathon in Fairfield, CT on June 4th, 2023, just 2 days after what would have been Laura's 32nd birthday. Thank you for your support!