At the beginning of January, here in Clark County, temperatures dropped down into the 30s, leaving us all flocking to the indoors.

But, there’s nothing like a little exercise to warm you up; also, it helps if you’re actually in Walt Disney World where it’s 70 degrees.

Sometimes life can feel like a long 5K when you’ve been challenged by something like autism, but your greatest runs are measured by what you’ve overcome to get to the finish line.

Sophomore Julia Graves traveled 827 miles to Disney World and Epcot Center in Florida to participate in a 5K to raise money for the Autism Speaks organization.

Graves has been involved in cross-country since the fall of her seventh grade year and has stuck with it every season since then.

“Running is my way to have fun, relieve stress, and stay in shape,” says Graves.

Graves says a few years back she saw a post on social media about a 5K in Disney World and since then she’s wanted to make it a reality.

Autism Speaks is an organization that promotes acceptance of autism, understanding for those unaware, and research for solutions for individuals with autism and their families.

The 5K consisted of 12,000 people ready to run around the park.

While it was just another 5K for some, Graves was motivated by the fact that her passion would be transformed into help for something bigger than herself.

Graves says running might challenge her, but not as much as autism challenges some people.

“The race was a good way to help out by doing something I love,” says Graves. “Not everyone gets a wild opportunity like that.”

Graves says she prefers cross-country and long distance because she’s better with endurance. And because of her endurance, she’s helping Autism Speaks endure helping those who need it.

“This was the most rewarding race I’ve done,” Graves said.