Donor Spotlight: Achilles Love at First Sight and Guide

Achilles International is known for building special bonds. Athletes often connect over a walk, ride or run in the park on their way to a future finish line. For longtime volunteer guides Brianna Nielsen and Jeffrey Gelband though, the connection was deeper and turned into wedding bells.

We congratulate Brianna and Jeff on their wedding this past August and thank them for their generosity. In lieu of a registry, the couple asked their wedding guests to donate to Achilles to help us transform the lives of athletes living with a disability. The gifts are still pouring in!

Brianna and Jeff, active with Achilles since 2015, first met while volunteering as guides at our New York City chapter’s weekly workouts. 

"There are very few things in my life that I have found more rewarding than becoming part of the Achilles community and making friends with all those involved. Running is merely the medium to the connection you make with people of all different backgrounds," says Jeff.

We are grateful to our volunteers who give back not only their time but inspire others to advance our mission. Interested in getting involved with Achilles and putting your creativity to work for our cause? Learn more on our website here.

Jeff and Brianna at a Boston Marathon finish line