The Life Time Tri Minneapolis Triathlon is going to be extra meaningful to me in 2017. I’ve joined Team Save The Children to raise money to support the amazing work they do around the world — and I’m doing it in memory of Olivia Ann Christiano, who was born a sleeping angel to my good friends Robbie and Alisha.

I remember many conversations over the summer with Robbie before Olivia was to be born, discussing the upcoming joys and challenges of raising a little girl, comparing that to his experiences with his two-year-old son. I remember texting back and forth about the different ways we’d planned to celebrate her birth in the fall. Then I remember finding out that she’d passed away just days before she was supposed to enter the world. My heart ached.

As a friend, it’s often hard to find the words to say during a time of loss. What could I do? Then I realized I could do something that would honor her memory. I decided I could use my triathlon hobby as a platform to raise money in memory of Olivia that will make a positive impact in the lives of children around the globe.

Millions of children throughout the world face chronic malnutrition, die from preventable illnesses, or are vulnerable to exploitation, violence or neglect. Save the Children saves countless lives by providing food assistance, medical care, education and disaster relief assistance. And nearly 90% of expenses goes directly to programs.

I have pledged to raise at least $500, and I need your help to get there. Please contribute whatever you feel comfortable with and share this page with others. Because together, we can make a difference in the world and honor Olivia’s memory.

To donate, click here to visit my fundraising page.