We knew of each other for years before we ever met in person, but that all changed when Elizabeth decided to bring her mare, "Sothis," to the barn in August of 2021 where Aly was riding. We met, we chatted, and that was it—except, it wasn’t. What began as a casual encounter quickly turned into a friendship that would change both us.

By 2022, we’d become fast-friends. We supported each other through our riding journeys—whether that meant giving advice, cheering each other on, or being there with a shoulder to cry on. We pushed each other to be better and do better, but also made sure to keep it real. We quickly learned that we work best when we have each other’s backs—through the highs and the lows. If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that we’ll always show up for each other, and sometimes that means embracing a “f*%# around and find out" attitude. Whether it was pulling off ridiculous stunts at the barn or getting ourselves into unpredictable (and often hilarious) situations, we’ve always kept our sense of humor and never shied away from the adventure.

By 2023, we realized the importance of teamwork—not just between horse and rider, but between each other. The lessons we’ve learned from our horses about trust, communication, and partnership have translated into our own friendship. Horses have taught us that the best teams show up together, fully committed, no matter how tough the ride may get. Whether we’re facing personal challenges or celebrating victories, we’ve learned that being in it together makes all the difference.

Which leads us to why our next spur-of-the-moment adventure is running the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. It seemed like a crazy idea, but we were (and are) all in. From the get-go, we knew we wanted to support the American Cancer Society, not just because of our personal connections to cancer, but because we believe in the work they do and the impact they have. We’ve witnessed firsthand the life-changing research and support that the ACS provides, and we’re honored to be part of their mission.

If you know us you know how important horses, family, friends, and helping others is. In 2024, Elizabeth’s horse, Sothis, unexpectedly passed. They had a remarkable relationship and an ultra-successful career together. They truly meant the world to each other. Aly, who has always had a desire to befriend every animal that is resistant to form relationships with others, had worked for years to gain Sothis’ trust. It wasn’t easy, but with perseverance, treats, and love, Aly had earned the mare’s acknowledgment. In return, Sothis became a protector in her own way of Aly and her horses. Aly not only holds her Italian traditions close to her heart which include the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve and random superstitions, but also holds deeply rooted Christian values. 

Which leads us to our team name and purpose. “Sothis” is the name for the protection star, which is also brightest star in the sky. The word "Fedela" (Italian for “faith”) and "Stella" (Italian for “star”) felt like the perfect concoction to celebrate who we are as individuals and as a team. Sothis, the "faithful star," was the one who brought us together, and her protective presence is a reminder that with faith in each other and our core values, we can face anything that comes our way.

Though Sothis is no longer with us, we still feel her presence daily—whether it’s a sign, a memory, or a feeling of protection guiding us forward.

Through our friendship, we’ve learned that life is a partnership—whether it’s with our horses, with each other, or with causes that matter. We’re ready to take on our next adventure, and we invite you to join us in our mission to make a difference, run for a cause, and continue embracing life’s wild ride—together.