Miles that Bind: Lauren and Julia
For twin sisters Lauren Nasta and Julia Giacomazzi, running the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon will be more than the completion of their first marathon. It will be a celebration of family, friendship, purpose, and the city that has always felt like home.
Lauren and Julia grew up in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, where the marathon passes through each year. Watching runners make their way through their neighborhood sparked a dream that stayed with them as they grew older.
“We always talked about how amazing it would be to run it one day, and we still can’t believe it’s actually happening,” they shared.
Now, the sisters will experience the race from the other side of the course, running through the city they love alongside their best friend. The timing makes the experience even more memorable: marathon day falls just one week before Lauren and Julia celebrate their 30th birthday.
“It feels like the perfect way to celebrate such a big milestone together.”
Both Lauren and Julia were thrilled to learn they had been accepted to Team Allied Services. As first-time marathoners, they understand the significance of the challenge ahead and do not take the opportunity for granted. Training for and completing 26.2 miles is already a meaningful goal, but representing Allied Services has given their journey an even greater sense of purpose.
“We feel incredibly fortunate to be able to take on this challenge, and we’re proud to support an organization that helps individuals improve their independence, mobility, and quality of life,” they said.
Getting to know members of the Allied Services team and their fellow charity runners has strengthened their appreciation for the organization, its programs, and the individuals it serves.
Throughout training, Lauren and Julia have also relied on an incredible network of family and friends. Several friends with marathon experience have stepped in as unofficial coaches, offering guidance on everything from finding the right sneakers to developing fueling strategies. One of their close friends is also running the New York City Marathon this year, adding another source of encouragement and companionship along the way.
Still, their strongest source of motivation remains each other.
Family has always been a priority for Lauren and Julia, and that bond has carried directly into their marathon training. They encourage one another through difficult runs, celebrate every milestone together, and remind each other of the reasons they began this journey.
Knowing they will be side by side on marathon day has made them stronger throughout the process.
“We never doubt that we’ll get each other across the finish line.”
Lauren and Julia hope their story inspires others to find meaningful ways to give back. Running a marathon is the path they have chosen to support Allied Services, but they recognize that making a difference can take many forms, including volunteering, donating, or supporting causes that feel personally important.
They also hope their experience encourages others to pursue challenges that may initially feel intimidating. Big goals often become more manageable when someone is there to share the work, provide encouragement, and hold you accountable. Above all, Lauren and Julia hope their journey serves as a reminder to appreciate the people who stand beside you.
Training for their first marathon together - with the support of their family, friends, and Team Allied Services community - has already become one of the most rewarding experiences they have ever shared. When they finally cross the finish line in Central Park, they will do so as they have approached nearly every important milestone in their lives: together.
To support Lauren and Julia on their journey, please visit their individual fundraising pages below.
Julia: https://fundraisers.nyrr.org/julia-giacomazzi
Lauren: https://fundraisers.nyrr.org/lauren-nasta
