My name is Lili Portmann. I have a rare neuromuscular disease that affects my lower extremities, making me unable to walk on my own. I am a wheelchair user, but that doesn’t stop me. I discovered my passion for running through a friend, and I absolutely love it. I ran the Miami Half Marathon this past year with the Nirvana Project, where I had the opportunity to push myself in a wheelchair while two people pushed me from behind to help me reach the finish line. I am always looking forward to the next challenge in my life, opportunities to go beyond my limits.
When a friend mentioned that they were doing the Wings for Life World Run, I didn’t think twice, I immediately signed up. I challenged myself to push independently, without anyone assisting me. I was able to make it to 4.5 miles before the catcher car caught me. As a Way Forward Athlete for the Wings for Life World Run, I was proud to be part of something bigger than myself. Running with athletes not only in Miami but around the world at the same time was an experience I will never forget. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to be part of Team The Way Forward again on next year’s Wings for Life World Run!