When Jesús Trejo laces up for the TCS NYC Marathon on November 1, 2026, he won't just be running 26.2 miles through the five boroughs. The 46-year-old Latino father from South Carolina will be carrying a mission far bigger than a finish line: proving that autism doesn't define a person's potential—and that a father's love can move mountains, one stride at a time.
Trejo, a landscaper by trade, started running in January as a way to heal after his divorce. What began as a modest goal—a 10K—quickly transformed into an obsession with endurance. “After my divorce, I wanted to start healing; my idea was to run a 10K, but in the process of training, I fell in love with running,” he says. That love led him to qualify for the world's most iconic marathon, and to be selected by New York Road Runners for their Team Inspire program, which amplifies stories of resilience and advocacy.
Running for Daniel, and for every Latino family touched by autism
Trejo's son, Daniel, is 11 years old and nonverbal, with Level 3 autism—the most severe classification. For Trejo, every mile is a tribute to Daniel, and a chance to speak openly about a condition that is often misunderstood in Latino communities. “My son is the reason why I always try to do different things, so I hope he can imitate me and follow in my footsteps; running in the New York City Marathon has given me the opportunity to speak about autism awareness,” he shares.
That mission resonates deeply across the Americas, where cultural stigmas around neurodiversity can leave families isolated. By standing on a global stage, Trejo is challenging those barriers head-on. His participation in the marathon is more than a personal achievement—it's a public statement that Latino fathers can be fierce advocates for their children, and that autism is not a shameful secret but a part of the human spectrum.
From novice to marathoner: a journey of discipline and hope
Trejo's training has been a masterclass in perseverance. Over ten months, he transformed from a casual runner into someone who can conquer the grueling hills of the Bronx and the final stretch through Central Park. The neurobiological benefits of endurance training are well-documented—improved focus, emotional regulation, and stress relief—which makes his dedication even more meaningful. For adults on the autism spectrum, running can be a powerful tool for well-being, and Trejo's example shows that it's never too late to start.
His story also highlights the importance of community support. Organizations like the Autism Society of America and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasize the need for strong networks for caregivers. Trejo's journey is a reminder that no parent should walk this path alone. As he runs, he carries the hopes of countless families who see themselves in his story.
The NYC Marathon has long been a stage for personal triumphs, but Trejo's run carries a unique weight. He's not just an athlete; he's a role model for Latino fathers everywhere, proving that vulnerability and strength can coexist. His presence on the starting line is a victory in itself—a testament to the power of showing up, even when the odds feel stacked against you.
As he crosses the finish line, with Daniel cheering him on (likely from a distance, given the crowds), Trejo will celebrate more than a personal record. He'll celebrate a new narrative for autism in the Latino community—one of pride, resilience, and unconditional love. And for those watching, his journey offers a simple yet profound lesson: sometimes the greatest race we run is the one that changes how the world sees our children.
For more stories of Latino resilience, check out Jeff Bezos's tribute to his Cuban father or Messi's animated adventure. And if you're planning your own marathon, don't miss our guide to binge-worthy picks for a cozy weekend.
