This week we are going to learn a little more about the lovable
Laurie Ellen Portner!

Where do you currently live?
Medford NJ

Name: Angelina Simms

Where do you currently live?  The Main Line

How long have you been involved with Achilles Philadelphia? April 2016

How did you find out about Achilles International? I met Stacy Rosenthal from MontCo Runners the morning of the Love Run Half Marathon in 2016. She saw how terrified I was that I couldn’t get into a slower paced carousel because it was so crowded, and she had me jump in one with her. She took my mind off of how nervous I was by telling me about the Achilles and invited me to a chapter workout.

When did running become a part of your life? May 2011. I joined a race team in New York that was raising money to build an accessibility-friendly playground for children with special needs.

What do you gain from running? When I first started running, it was only to fundraise for nonprofits that I cared about. Now, it’s so much more than that. It’s about support and community.

What is your favorite distance to run? It’s always been the 10k. I’ve done a 5k here and there, trained for a few halfs (even though I only ever got to run in one), but the 10k will always be my favorite.

Who/what is your biggest inspiration? My son. He wins so many medals for the races that he runs in. I’m super jealous. 

What quality best describes your personality? My level of determination. I’ve had quite a bit of adversity that’s crossed my path, but it hasn’t stopped me. I may have to go through things every now and then with a different approach, but I’m not giving up.

What do you do for fun or a hobby in your spare time? I enjoy reading, wandering around libraries and other places with interesting archives, spending time outdoors, and continuing my never-ending quest in search of the perfect apple cider.

Do you have a favorite quote? “And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” ~ Anaïs Nin

What strength do you bring to the Achilles Philly chapter? (don’t be modest!!) Lately, most of my time with the Achilles Philly chapter involves more of a behind the scenes support role in addition to making appearances onsite supporting and cheering on everyone. I also have nonprofit experience with other organizations serving in a variety of roles ranging from being a board member, public relations, communications, event coordination, a track and field coach for Special Olympics, chairperson for an autism walk fundraiser, and even being a crisis intervention counselor. 

What motivates you to keep coming back to the chapter workouts? I genuinely enjoy the positive energy and sense of community. I love how both the athletes and volunteers show up without any hidden agenda. Everyone wants to be there and that is more than enough for me.

If you were speaking to a prospective volunteer or athlete and could only convey one thing about Achilles Philadelphia what would it be? Come as you are. There is a place for everyone here. You don’t have to be a runner to be involved with the Achilles. I am living proof of that.