Meet the Marathoner: Dancer and Former Para-Cyclist from Charlotte Running New York Marathon Thanks to Cordani Family Grant

Davian “DJ” Robinson, 33, originally from Newton NC and now residing in Charlotte, NC, has been dancing through life and reframing what’s possible since birth. He gradually lost his vision throughout his childhood due to retinopathy of prematurity, but found movement unlocked a world of possibilities from the dance floor as a choreographer to the podium as a para-cyclist. He recently co-curated an exhibition on multi-sensory ways to experience art at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, called “Collection, Reframed: We are Here, Beyond Vision.”

The artist, dancer, choreographer and former para-cyclist has set his sights on his next challenge: his first TCS New York City Marathon this November.

Read a Q&A below to learn more about his journey to the start line thanks to support from the Cordani Family Grant Program and his advice for others living with a disability.

What inspired you to run the TCS New York City Marathon?

“During undergrad, I ran the Twin Cities Marathon in 2019. Unfortunately, I got food poisoning before the race and didn’t perform my best. I finished, but it wasn’t great.

I’ve always heard about the ‘big ones,’ and my mentor and Achilles Charlotte chapter lead, Anthony Butler, encouraged me. Hearing stories of other athletes inspired me, too. I also have family in New York and have traveled there often for my guide dogs, so I’ve always felt a strong connection to the city.

Life looks different for me now. I’m working professionally, I have a family, and a newborn daughter. I wanted to take on this marathon not for competition or accolades, but for the love of running. After losing my mom in 2022, I promised myself I’d keep pressing forward and finding challenges that honor her life while also celebrating the new life of my daughter.

When you run, it’s not about how fast you finish. It’s about making every step meaningful. This marathon is a chance to unlock another side of myself.”

What does being part of Achilles mean to you?

“When I was 18, just starting to compete, I went to a mentor for help. He told me, ‘I’ve got your ticket, just go do your best.’ That moment showed me that as long as I do what I’m supposed to do, there will always be people willing to support me. Their reward is seeing me succeed.

Achilles proves that people are invested in my success not just for me, but for all Achilles athletes. It eliminates barriers that might otherwise create stress or obstacles. And it allows us to show up fully as ourselves, to share our stories, and to pave the way for future athletes.

When you understand your ‘why,’ you understand your purpose. This grant allows me to live out that purpose.”

As a recipient of the Cordani Family Grant, how do you hope to make an impact?

“Partnering with Achilles gives me a platform to inspire others. I want people to see the power of this funding not just for me, but for anyone with a dream.

I hope it encourages younger generations to believe in themselves, to know that they can stand on the same stage. When you’re alongside an organization that believes in you like Achilles, it makes it easier to tell your story and to inspire others to embrace what once felt impossible.”

What does success look like for you?

“I’ve heard people say thousands of times: ‘Life is not a sprint, it’s a marathon.’ Seeing life through that lens allows you to appreciate the small moments that ultimately fuel the bigger picture.

For me, success is not about speed. My mind and body move a million miles a minute, but marathons remind me to slow down. Success is about finishing strong, putting one foot in front of the other, and finding joy in the journey.”

What advice would you give to others living with a disability who want to pursue their dreams?

“My advice is to know that your story matters. You have the capacity to dream big, to chase those dreams, and to leave an impact. It’s not about how fast you finish, it’s that you finish, and that’s something to be proud of.”