For ten-year-old Amia Shah, joining Girls on the Run was more than just a new after-school activity—it was a doorway to a world where she felt free, included, and strong.

Living with Marfan syndrome, a genetic condition that affects connective tissue and often limits participation in physical activities, Amia had grown used to sitting out when her friends bounced on trampolines or raced through gym games. But at Girls on the Run, she didn’t have to sit out. She got to shine.

"My favorite part was when we did exercises in a group, where a student would be picked to lead. Everyone got a chance to do that. I felt awesome. I felt included, and I didn’t have to sit out. The teachers would modify the exercise a bit so I could always participate."

For her parents, watching Amia find a place where she could be fully herself was deeply emotional. "Watching her find a sense of belonging in a group activity felt like such a relief," said her father, Ankit Shah. "It made us feel like she has a group, a team, and a place where she doesn’t have to hold back or act different."

Amia’s journey with Marfan syndrome is one shared with her family—her mother and younger sister also live with the condition. Their experience has shaped a perspective rooted in resilience, hope, and the search for inclusive spaces like Girls on the Run, where every girl can feel strong and celebrated.

Throughout her first season, Amia quickly found her voice, both at practice and at home. Her parents noticed a transformation—not just in her physical confidence but in her willingness to take initiative and speak up. "She went from being a shy kid who wasn’t always keen on approaching someone to someone who found her voice and the confidence to use it," Ankit said proudly.

One of the most special memories from the season was the Girls on the Run 5K, where Ankit served as Amia’s running buddy.

"Being able to participate with her gave me a chance to share an experience and an activity with her. It made us better friends and inspired me to look at anything we do as experiences we can share. I feel like it gave me a chance to really be her ‘buddy,’ and that was so very meaningful."

As a family deeply familiar with the challenges Marfan syndrome can present, the Shahs know how important inclusive spaces like Girls on the Run are for children who might otherwise feel left out. "GOTR has been an incredible way to reverse the feeling of isolation," Ankit said. "Our girls are stronger than we know, braver than we think, and smarter than we realize. Programs like Girls on the Run help them grow all these skills while teaching them the power of acceptance, inclusivity, and self-confidence."

And if Amia had to describe Girls on the Run in one word? She doesn’t hesitate: "Awesome."

We couldn’t agree more!