Finn Schneider has been running for most of his life.
As a kid, he eagerly signed up for races, always wanting to go farther, faster, longer. He ran cross country in middle school, high school, and even for a year in college. Over time, that love of endurance sports grew into something pretty inspiring.
Finn—who lives with Prader-Willi syndrome—is a Boston Marathon finisher, IRONMAN athlete, and all around badass. He’s currently preparing to take on the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon with Team FPWR.
For Finn, every finish line is hard-earned.
One reality many people may not realize about PWS is that low muscle tone can make injuries far more common and recovery especially difficult. Over the years, Finn has faced more setbacks than most young athletes could imagine: dislocated joints, a fractured femur, repeated ankle sprains, and long stretches on crutches or in walking boots.
It does not stop him from coming back.
Again and again, Finn chooses to begin.
“His willpower and determination amaze me daily,” shared his mom, Jessie. “What he battles some days just to get out the door is so much more than many of us can comprehend. But if he has 15 miles on his training plan, he somehow starts running and gets it done.”
That perseverance has become one of Finn’s defining qualities. While injuries have forced him to give up some activities he once loved—like hiking in the mountains—he continues to seek out new challenges.
Alongside him through it all is Toby, his beloved service dog, who supports him through anxiety, offering comfort and companionship.
For Finn, endurance is about seeing what he can do and continuing to push himself. Every mile is a chance to challenge assumptions about what people with PWS can do, and to inspire others living with rare disorders to dream bigger and go further.
PWS is not easy. None of it comes easily. But his grit and determination sure leave a lasting impression.
This November, Finn will take on 26.2 miles through the streets of New York as part of Team FPWR, raising funds to support Prader-Willi syndrome research.
Before he heads to New York, Finn will open FPWR’s Family Conference in October, sharing his story and his hopes for the future with other families affected by PWS.
If Finn’s story inspires you, leave him some hype in a comment, or make a donation to his fundraiser, Team Finn.
Every gift supports PWS research, clinical trials, and scientific progress that moves the PWS community forward.
