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RUN FOR AUTISM team member Mackenzie OConnell summed up one of the aims of the 2025 United Airlines New York City half team well: “Let’s run to celebrate neurodiversity.” It’ll be her first half marathon when she takes on the race with 42 teammates in March. “I am not much of a runner and never have been. This will be my first one [half marathon]! My inspiration is my brother Riley who is on the autistic spectrum. Riley is 29 and lives in SF. His interests include animation, movies, and animals. He has been one of my greatest inspirations in my life – not just because he is my older brother, but because of the way he faces challenges head on! Whether it’s navigating social situations or mastering a new skill, Riley shows up everyday with determination and resilience. I’m not dedicating this race to him – I’m dedicating it to be more like him.”

Team member Joanna Jara is running for her nephew and godson, James, who was diagnosed with autism last year. “He was attending regular school until 6 months ago until he was transferred to a school that specialized in autistic kids in Miami, Florida. During the last 6 months he has flourished. He is speaking more, he is more social, and has even learned how to write his name! I have seen first hand how the proper therapies and teaching methods can improve the lives for autistic kids. So, in short, I’m running for James.”

Melinda Mizrachi’s connection to autism is also deeply personal. “My son, Jonathan, was diagnosed with Autism, and from that moment, our world shifted. Navigating the complexities of Autism has been a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and countless lessons in patience, resilience, and unconditional love. Over the years, I’ve become not just an advocate but a fierce champion for awareness, inclusion, and opportunities for individuals on the spectrum. Running has given me a platform to amplify this message, to show the world that Autism is not a limitation but a different way of experiencing life. Our journey with Autism has been one of transformation. In the beginning, it was overwhelming—not knowing what the future held, searching for the right resources, and learning how to best support Jonathan. But through it all, we’ve embraced every challenge with love and determination. Jonathan has worked incredibly hard to overcome obstacles, and his achievements, from joining his high school cross country and track teams to placing eighth in Florida in the 800m adaptive event, are a testament to his strength and perseverance. Running has been a significant part of our journey together—it started as my personal outlet and has evolved into something we now share. Seeing him thrive as an athlete, inspired by my own passion for running, has been one of the greatest rewards of this journey.”