Yesterday morning, Nikolas was so excited to do his longest run ever that he woke up before 5AM. Once he finally got outside, it was still dark out, and he was just in time to see his very first shooting star! Maybe it was good luck from the star, or eating the best apple cider donuts at Northbrook Orchards halfway through the run, or just Nikolas's super-endurance that caused Nikolas, after running eighteen miles, to say, "I want to go play eighteen holes of golf!". This morning, he even expressed the sentiment, "I feel like I could run a marathon today!"

Nikolas saw a shooting star this morning as he set out to complete his longest run ever.  Pretty good sign wouldn't you say? Good luck, Nikolas!

Nikolas gave Dean a Running the World for Children shirt at the Runner's World Festival.  Nikolas was so proud to give it to him!

A fellow runner at the Running for Answers 5k yesterday surprised Nikolas with a donation for Operation Warm.  He saw Nikolas's shirt and said, "I've heard about you. Good luck!"

Nikolas ran the Running for Answers 5k in Philadelphia yesterday. Well-known celebrity Rosie O'Donnell was there, and Nikolas got to meet her and share his story! 

Vince said "Nikolas, you're my new hero." At the Running for Answers 5k, Nikolas encountered the former football player and protagonist of the movie "Invincible", who told him to never give up. Also in the picture is Kevin Reilly, former football player and cancer survivor.

Nikolas met an amazing athlete making a positive difference in the world! "Julius Achon. Proof that one humble person can make a difference and change the world."  
- a quote about 
Achon Uganda Children's Fund, the organization that Achon started. This great organization helps children all over Uganda. Please read more about Achon's incredible story at: Achonugandachildren.org

Nikolas's favorite part of  the Runner's World Festival was running a mile with Dean Karnazes.  They talked about running marathons together internationally during Dean's World Run. So much fun!

On Saturday waiting to  begin the 10k, Nikolas was asked to come up on stage to tell fellow runners about his amazing journey! Here's a little piece we were able to catch on video:

Nikolas met Dean Karnazes last spring and was lucky enough to run with the Ultramarathon Man! He will see him again at the Runner's World Festival this weekend. He can't wait!