Meet Nellie’s Team Captain, Lauren Simmons!

Is this your first race?

This fall will be my third time running the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Half-Marathon, and my fifth half-marathon. I’ve also run a bunch of 5ks and 10ks, one 15k, and the Around the Bay 30k race. 

Why are you running/walking for Nellie’s?

I have always been involved in social justice and feminist activism, particularly through my work in Women in Toronto Politics (WiTOPoli) and as a teacher and member of OSSTF Toronto. However, when I became a new mom in October 2015, it became important for me to support organizations working directly with women and children in need. I was so lucky to have a network of support to help me through the first few months with my baby; I want to play some small part in providing other women with this sense of community, too.

How long have you been running for?

 I’ve been running for about 15 years. I started running when I lived in Montreal for university, and have continued running since then as a way to explore my own city or to see other places when I travel, and to spend some quality time with myself and my thoughts.

Where is your favourite place to run/walk?

I live in Toronto’s east end, so I’m a big fan of the Don Valley Recreational Trail. I can run for hours without having to wait at a stoplight, and the path is mostly shaded, which is a big benefit in summer. I also love running when I travel, particularly in Ottawa, on the Rideau Canal, and in Chicago, on the waterfront.

What message do you have for the women and children at Nellie’s?

I want the women and children at Nellie’s to know they are not alone. It’s a small act for me to raise funds for Nellie’s, but it’s my way of showing my sisters I’m here for them and I’m with them in one way or another. I want to tell these women they are more than their circumstances, and they have it within their power to live the lives they dream of. 

What is your favourite workout song/power song?

So many! My current faves are “My Shot” from the HAMILTON cast recording, “King Kunta” by Kendrick Lamar, and “Freedom” by Beyonce. I end all of my race playlists with “Whistleblower” by Arkells, and of course, “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen.

Can you share a quote that keeps you motivated?

“Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.” This quotation is from Haruki Murakami’s book WHAT I TALK ABOUT WHEN I TALK ABOUT RUNNING. I think about this when I’m feeling worn out after a long run, or a long day with my baby, or a long week…pain is part of life. We all experience loss and pain; what determines how successful we are is our ability to push through it.

If you would like to support Lauren, please take a look at her fundraising page at:

https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/mobile/mobilePersonalPage.aspx?registrationID=3505234&langPref=en-CA

Meet Nellie’s Team Captain, Ingrid Graham!

Is this your first race?

No it isn’t. I’ve done the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon several times before but this is my first time participating in support of Nellie’s.

Why are you running/walking for Nellie’s?

I’m doing the 5K and raising funds for Nellie’s because I believe in the program and services that they provide. It is unfortunate that we need agnecies like Nellie’s but since we do it is good to know that there is a place available to support marginalized women and provide them with the tools they need to regain control of their lives.

How long have you been running for?

I am not a runner by any means. I have bad knees so I’ll be walking. My aim is to do the 5K in about 25 minutes or less. I may have to walk faster than I have before.

Where is your favourite place to run/walk?

The High Park and Bloor West areas are my favourite to go walk.

What message do you have for the women and children at Nellie’s?

You are not alone. Access all the services and programs available to help you move forward to a better future.

What is your favourite workout song/power song?

I’m going old school with the Beastie Boy’s Body Movin’

Can you share a quote that keeps you motivated?

“It always seems impossible until its done” by Nelson Mandela

If you would like to support Ingrid, please take a look at her fundraising page at:

https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/FundraisingPage.aspx?EventID=191494&LangPref=en-CA&RegistrationID=3460339