Lins Thompson was born and raised in Huntington Beach, CA, and she’s been participating in the LA Cupid’s Undie Run for four years! Like so many people who make their way into the Cupid’s Community, Lins Thompson first got involved because she knew someone who was personally affected by Neurofibromatosis (NF).

Since May is NF Awareness Month, we wanted to sit down with someone who has witnessed firsthand the strength, courage, and determination that our NF champions bring to the table every single day.

Cupid’s: What’s your favorite coffee shop around LA?

Lins: Well since they employ me, I better say Starbucks! Seriously though I love the company and my job, so that’s an easy answer.

C: What’s your go-to coffee order?

L: Actually, iced green tea is my favorite!

C: How did you first hear about Cupid’s?

L: I was introduced to Cupid’s through my dear friend John Sullivan who suffered from NF. I couldn’t be more thankful for him, his friendship, and his introduction to this cause.

C: What do you remember most about your first Cupid’s Undie Run?

L: I remember meeting so many wonderful people, some with NF, and some without. The sense of community at the event was like nothing I have seen in any of the other fundraising events I’ve attended. There is something to be said for having people run in their undies. It creates a sense of equality and oneness to me. People are so open & it also makes it such a fun event. So many smiles and laughs!

C: Tell us more about John.

L: John was the amazing soul who left us too soon on April 5th of this year. He was not only a friend, but family to me. Throughout our 10 years of friendship, his bravery, courage, and determination to not let NF restrict his life was amazing.

He traveled with us, ran marathons, fought for the cause, and no matter how much pain he was in, you would never know. I will carry his message with me always and pull from his example when I have struggles to push through, and keep that smile on my face. I met so many wonderful people in this NF community because of him, and now I will carry on with them and keep up the fight for him and so many others!

C: Is there anything you wish everyone knew about NF?

L: That it affects more people than you realize, and you probably don’t know much about it because those that live with it do so with grace and courage. They don’t want your sympathy, only your understanding and support. They will walk with you, travel with you, and love with you.

This month, tell the story of the NF champion that inspires you and help us spread awareness for Neurofibromatosis.

If you’d like to donate in memory of John Sullivan, you can contribute to this Project: Cupid fundraising project set up by his friends.