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OVERCOMING DYSLEXIA THROUGH TRIATHLON

My name is Aaron Letteri.  I am 14 years old and born and raised in Reston. I have learning disability, dyslexia. I currently attend Lab school of Washington to accommodate my learning difference.  I struggle in school because of my learning differences, so participating in triathlons helped me gain a lot of self-confidence.  I have also become closer to my community as result.
 
My triathlon journey began because my neighbors Olivia Wolfe, Kacey Hirshfeld, and Hannah Becker encouraged me to participate when I was 7 years old.  In 2018, I will compete in my eighth Reston Youth Triathlon, seventh Reston Kids Triathlon, and I will be doing my first Reston Sprint Triathlon.
 
I decided to Race with Purpose and fundraise because both of my parents have experienced loss due to cancer including my grandpa, uncles and my aunt. Triathlons bring the community together for a good cause, and I want to make a difference.
 
My advice to other kids that want to give triathlon a try is that if I can do it anyone can.   I encourage all children to participate and try to have fun; don’t be afraid or intimidated.  When you finish, you feel good about yourself. In addition, it is tons of fun.
 
If you are interested, I would recommend reaching out to triathlon coordinators who can easily advise you on where to start. There are a lot of volunteer positions within the triathlon that need to be filled in order for the event to be successful, and you will also receive service hours. Remember you are not alone and there are a lot of volunteers who can guide you during the race.
 
If you would like to donate to my campaign you can do that here:
 
Thank you very much for reading my story and for your support.