Beyond the Finish Line: A Family’s Journey With myTEAM TRIUMPH

When families join myTEAM TRIUMPH, they discover that the finish line is not really a finish at all. It is a doorway into a community where challenges are understood and every accomplishment is celebrated together. One family recently shared their experiences with us, and their story captures exactly why mTT is so special.

“Everyone at mTT is kind and accepting… they begin to feel like family.”

When asked who has impacted them most through mTT, this family couldn’t choose just one person. Their answer was simple: everyone.

From the Angel athletes who show up with heart and enthusiasm, to the Captains who inspire everyone around them, they found themselves wrapped in a community that sees them, welcomes them, and lifts them up. What started as a single invitation to join a race quickly grew into something deeper. No soon started to feel like they found a place where they belonged.

The Magic of the Finish Line

There is one moment this family looks forward to every single race day. It is the second Captain Jaren reaches the finish line.

His family describes it like this:

“Jaren loves to run into his daddy’s arms and be swung up as he crosses the finish line. The bond they share is so special.”

It is a moment filled with pure joy. The emotions are then spilled over to everyone watching. You can feel the connection between them. You can feel the pride. You can feel the love. It is the kind of moment that reminds all of us why we do what we do.

A Safe Space Where Everyone Feels Understood

Before mTT, the family often felt the weight of wondering how others might react or what people might think. That changed the moment they stepped into their first mTT event.

“mTT is a safe space for our family to show up as we are. We don’t need to worry here. Everyone is excited to see you and welcomes you to the group.”

There is something powerful about being in a space where you can finally breathe a little easier. Where your shoulders drop. Where you are met with smiles instead of stares. That is what mTT has given them: a place where they can be themselves without hesitation.

How Their Journey Began

Their story started in 2023, when one of Jaren’s Educational Assistant's encouraged them to join for the Steven's Point Wonderful Water Run. Jaren completed his first race that day. He crossed the finish line with a smile so bright that his family knew this was just the beginning.

And they were right.

Racing as a Family

Race day has become a family celebration. While Jaren enjoys his music and the thrill of moving through the course, his dad pushes the chair with pride and determination. The whole family meets them at the finish, cheering, celebrating, and soaking in the joy of the moment. Those shared moments are building memories that will last forever.

“We love that it’s something they can do together. It makes it even more special.”

A World of Opportunity

Jaren has very specific interests, and it’s not always easy to find activities he truly feels connected to. But mTT became a place where he found something he loves.

“mTT gives Jaren a place where he can show up and enjoy something with his dad.”

That simple sentence holds so much weight. It is not just about running. It is about connection. Purpose. Joy. It is about seeing your child light up and knowing you’ve found an experience that fits them perfectly.

Finding Their People

Another unexpected gift was the friendships they formed. There is comfort in meeting others who understand your world without long explanations. These friendships are built on shared experiences and genuine care for one another.

“It is always helpful to connect with other parents and swap stories. The Angel athletes make each Captain feel seen and valued.”

Growing Stronger, Going Farther

This father-son team has completed many races together, and one of their proudest accomplishments was Jaren finishing his first half marathon in August 2025. Thirteen point one miles. Side by side.

They trained together all summer. They showed up, they worked hard, and they crossed that finish line together. It meant everything to them.

Their involvement expanded beyond race days too. They built deeper relationships, supported other families, and became part of the heartbeat of the mTT community.

The Surprise That Means the Most

One thing that truly moved them was the dedication they witnessed from mTT volunteers.

“The level of humble service blows me away. No one is looking for applause. They simply want to help, and they go above and beyond.”

When families feel valued, seen, and supported, it is often because someone showed up with a full heart. That is the energy mTT volunteers bring to every event.

A Message to Donors

If this family could say one thing to every donor, it would be this:

“mTT is a safe and fun space for families affected by disability. It breaks down barriers and creates a space where everyone can belong.”

Every contribution helps create moments of joy like Jaren’s finish-line leap. Every gift helps build a world where families feel connected, supported, and celebrated.

Donate Today

A Final Reflection

This family’s journey is filled with love and the kind of joy that can only come from being truly accepted. Their story reminds us that races are not about the medals or the finish line. They are about connection. They are about belonging. They are about showing up for one another in ways that matter.

This is the heart of myTEAM TRIUMPH. This is why we run. And this is why their next finish line will be just as powerful as their first.