Runner. Herbalist. Tea Maker. Clean Water Warrior.

I grew up as "the fast girl"—running track, racing friends in the neighborhood, and feeling most like myself when I was moving. But at 15 years old, I started smoking cigarettes and spent the next 12 years addicted to nicotine. Even then, every time I saw someone running, something in me longed to return.

In 2010, I quit smoking cold turkey. Two years later, I signed up for a 10K and printed out a six-week training plan. I couldn't even run half a block without gasping for air. But little by little, I found my stride again and rediscovered the freedom, gratitude, and resilience that running had always given me.

Since then, I've completed seven half marathons, three marathons, including the NYC Marathon—a lifelong dream and two 20+ Mile Trail Races. Now, I'm stepping into my next challenge: my first ultramarathon at the Westfield Ultra.

As the founder of Trisha's Tea, I spend my days creating herbal blends that nourish and support wellbeing. And every cup of tea begins with one essential ingredient: water. Water is life. It sustains our bodies, nourishes communities, and creates opportunities for health, education, safety, and dignity.

That's why supporting MissionCleanWater feels so deeply personal to me. Their work provides lasting clean water solutions to underserved communities around the world, helping ensure that families, schools, and healthcare centers have reliable access to something every human being deserves.

Every mile I run and every dollar raised is a reminder that movement can create meaningful change. Thank you for supporting my ultramarathon journey, Trisha's Tea, and MissionCleanWater's mission to keep clean water flowing where it's needed most.

Running gave me my life back. Tea became part of how I nurture that life. And water is the foundation that makes both possible. I used to run to prove I could. Now I run because I can. And at the Westfield Ultra, I'm running with the hope that more people around the world can experience the dignity, health, and opportunity that begins with something as simple—and as sacred—as clean water.