Niki Popyer's Personal Page
In 1899, Rose Fay Thomas, wife of Chicago Symphony Orchestra founder Theodore Thomas, established The Anti-Cruelty Society and forever changed the landscape of animal welfare throughout the Chicago region. Since that time, the Society has endured as Chicago's oldest and largest open admission animal welfare organization, one that provides a wide breadth of programs that save the lives of thousands of animals each year. A certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the recipient of a four-star Charity Navigator rating, The Anti-Cruelty Society’s mission is to build a community of caring by helping pets and educating people.
Today, The Anti-Cruelty Society remains the oldest and the largest open admission animal welfare organization in Chicago. All animals are welcome at the Society every day of the year. We never turn an animal away from our doors. Ever. And once an animal is admitted, they can stay as long as it takes to find their forever home.
However, the care that we provide to animals in need is only possible through the friendship and support of our community. And by choosing to run with Team Anti-Cruelty, you are making a difference to each and every one of the animals that comes to us in search of hope, comfort, and healing.
ABOUT ME
About two years ago, I ran my first 3 consecutive miles and about a year after that I ran my first marathon (TCS NYC Marathon 2018.) Running has allowed me to feel like an athlete again after years of being sidelined from all physical activity, or any activity at all, including attending school. When I was younger, I played competitve basketball until I suffered a ton of concussions, including two just 8 days apart. Being taken out of school and being unable to live a normal teenage life was extremely hard and depressing and since then always felt a void in my life.
After years and years, I was finally allowed to start "working out." 5 minutes on the stationary bike finally turned into a 30 minutes on the treadmill, and finally led me to where I am today. It was a long road to recovery, but I am so proud of where I am today- a marathoner!!
Also filling that void was bringing Holly, my 2.5 year old chocolate lab into my life. Having a dog has taught me responsibilty, selflessness andunconditional love.
Combining my love for animals and my passion for running just seemed like the perfect fit. The care that Anti-Cruelty Society provides to animals in need is only possible through the friendship and support of our community. And by choosing to run with Team Anti-Cruelty, I believe I am making a difference to each and every one of the animals that comes to them in search of hope, comfort, and healing.
Please consider donating- anything helps :)
Thank you!!!!!
Niki
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