Meet the Marathoner: Mom Runs For Daughter Ruby to Benefit Team Achilles

New York native Kelsey Byrne is taking on her first ever marathon this fall as a Team Achilles charity entrant in the TCS New York City Marathon, not for the shiny medal she’ll receive on the other side of the finish line, but in honor of her daughter, Ruby. Her one-year-old daughter was recently diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder, GATD2B-associated neurodevelopmental disorder. As a result of this disorder, Ruby will struggle with low muscle tone, speech apraxia, and developmental differences as she grows up.

Despite being a lifelong athlete, Kelsey never thought much about completing a full marathon, not until she found an organization that truly touched her heart and inspired her to give back. 

Kelsey first learned of Achilles during one of her routine runs in Central Park, when she saw the cluster of neon yellow shirts and heard the “Go Achilles” chants while running around the reservoir. “It was always inspiring to see Achilles running in the park,” Kelsey says. “As we learned of Ruby’s diagnosis we began exploring programs that would help her down the line. It seemed like a natural fit and I felt a pull to join in and better understand what they were all about.”

It wasn’t long after her first Achilles workout that Kelsey realized she had found a community of people who could really understand what her family was going through. “It can feel like a lonely place to be, especially at the beginning. You’re suddenly surrounded by people who aren’t able to relate to what you’re going through. At Achilles, people do understand. They get it and they’re supportive and encouraging. It’s an uplifting and positive community to be a part of.”

To date, Kelsey has raised over $35,000 to support athletes with disabilities. 

Read a Q&A with Kelsey below to learn more about her journey to the New York City Marathon, and why she is running for her daughter. 

What inspired you to take on a marathon?

“When my husband and I first joined Achilles, I was inspired to find a group so focused on progress and a step-by-step, day-by-day mentality. It was a time where kindness, and positivity meant a lot. I felt immense gratitude for the work Achilles was doing — it made me feel hopeful for Ruby’s future. So I thought, ‘Why not take this challenge on and try to give back to an organization that’s given so much to me?’ When I was offered the spot, it was a no brainer. It was a huge yes!” 

How has Achilles impacted your life?

“Achilles has taught me about true perseverance, dedication, discipline — the power of getting out there and showing up. Our Ruby works harder than anyone I know. She shows up every day and inches optimistically toward small wins that come as second nature to most of us. That will always be her journey, so knowing there are organizations like Achilles to support her as she gets older is a huge source of comfort. I know they’ll not only help her reach her goals, but appreciate and celebrate her for who she is.” 

Do you have any advice for other parents with children with disabilities?

“We’re new to this, so taking time to process has been important. It can feel incredibly overwhelming to tackle all the logistics that come with a diagnosis along with the emotional weight you carry. To other parents, I’d say: ‘you’re doing a phenomenal job, you’re a force, and you’re not giving yourself enough credit.’  

I’ll offer advice that I find hard to follow myself — give yourself grace and prioritize the little things that will see you through challenging days. Maybe it’s a five minute walk, maybe it’s an ice cream cone in the car, maybe it’s a dance party in the kitchen. For us, it’s carving out time to just be a family outside of appointments and therapy. 

Finding support groups has also been a lifeline. We've met some incredible people through Achilles, our GAND Community, and organizations like Daniel’s Music Foundation. When you’re ready, connecting with others who can relate is a real comfort. Their strength will show you the way. “ 

Do you have any special routines or rituals that help you stay focused on race days?

“A good New York bagel for long runs, always! I’ve also started to wear a bracelet that my dear friend Grace (who is also running the NYC Marathon) sent me in the mail. It says ‘run the mile you’re in.’ I love looking down at it on my runs and throughout the day. It keeps me grounded and reminds me to live in the present and enjoy the moment — something that’s been key throughout this process with our Ruby.”

Help support Kelsey on her NYC Marathon journey by making a donation to support athletes living with disabilities.

Kelsey holding her daughter, Ruby.