On April 15, 2016, I traveled to Niagara Falls, Canada, to participate in the Stair Climb for Children’s Cancer, hosted by the Canadian Cancer Society. Prior to the event, I learned about a long-standing course record—set 32 years earlier by the late Canadian Olympic cyclist Gord Singleton. Fueled by my passion for pushing limits and my competitive nature, I gave everything I had during my climb and crossed the finish line with a new course record of 3 minutes and 21 seconds (3:21). As a result, I had the opportunity to meet the Mayor of Niagara Falls, Jim Diodati, who told me I would be presented with the key to the city the following year.
 

One year later, on April 22, 2017, I returned to Niagara Falls and broke my own record, finishing in just 3 minutes and 2 seconds (3:02). In recognition of breaking the 32-year course record in 2016 and resetting it in 2017, I was presented with the “Key to the City” by Mayor Jim Diodati. When I started in this sport, earning such an honor was never the goal. I’ve always been driven by my competitive nature and my desire to help others. But it just goes to show—when you follow your heart, do the things you’re truly passionate about, and stay in your lane, everything meant for you will find its way to you.
 

I firmly believe that what’s for you is for you—and there is nothing anyone can do to change that. My advice to all of you is simple: stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. As Seneca once said, ‘Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.’