Life often presents us with challenges, but it’s in these moments that we realize the true power of gratitude, giving, and celebration. In reflecting on my own journey this past year, I found that even in the face of hardship, these elements provide the strength to grow, give, and celebrate what we overcome.
A Routine Shattered: The Unexpected Struggle
Spring brought with it what I thought would be another season of running—a routine I had followed for over two decades. But something was wrong. I felt sluggish, and my breath didn’t come as easily. My pace slowed significantly, and what was once a comfortable run became an effort. At first, I dismissed it as a passing issue, but when it didn’t improve, I realized it wasn’t just a bad day.
Listening to My Body: The Wake-Up Call
Despite being a runner in great health for many years, I couldn’t ignore the consistent warning signs anymore. My heart rate alarmingly rose during runs, and my resting heart rate climbed far higher than it had ever been. After I lost weight unexpectedly, I knew I had to listen to what my body was telling me. A visit to my doctor confirmed what I feared: I had hyperthyroidism.
A Marathon on the Horizon: Managing Health and Training
While preparing for the New York City Marathon, my health continued to deteriorate. By the time I saw an endocrinologist, I had been diagnosed with Graves’ Disease, an autoimmune disorder causing the hyperthyroidism. I was given medication, but the healing process was slow. I could barely manage daily tasks, let alone my training. Still, I clung to the hope that I could run the marathon, despite the overwhelming obstacles.
Setbacks and Humbling Realities
When I attempted my first long run post-diagnosis, it was a humbling experience. I couldn’t make it past a few miles before having to walk. It was hard to accept how much work lay ahead, but I didn’t give up. Slowly, with medication, rest, and therapy, I started to feel better.
A Glimmer of Hope: Getting the Green Light
In October, after additional tests, my endocrinologist gave me the go-ahead to run the marathon. Although my training had been inconsistent, and my health still unstable, I was determined. But just days before the race, life threw me another curveball.
Heartbreaking News: Saying Goodbye
My sister-in-law, who had been battling cancer, called to say goodbye. We hadn’t seen each other in years, and now, she was nearing the end of her fight. The weight of this news was heavy, but as I talked with my mom, she told me something that would carry me through the race: “Go and run for Julie.” These words resonated deeply and gave me a sense of purpose beyond the marathon.
A Sign and a Purpose: Running for Julie
As I lined up at the starting line of the NYC Marathon, I carried my sister-in-law with me in spirit. During the race, I saw a runner ahead of me wearing a shirt that said, “Julie, imagine a life without cancer.” It felt like a sign—a reminder of why I was running: not for myself, but for Julie and for everyone fighting battles of their own.
Crossing the Finish Line: A Triumph of Gratitude
The marathon was grueling, but crossing that finish line was one of the most powerful experiences of my life. Despite the pain, exhaustion, and the emotional weight I carried, I finished with gratitude. I had faced tremendous challenges, but with the support of family, friends, and my own perseverance, I had made it through.
Reflection: The Power of Gratitude and Celebration
In the end, I realized that gratitude, giving, and celebration are deeply intertwined. Health is everything. When you have the strength to give—whether through a simple act of kindness or by running for a loved one—you bring joy to both others and yourself. And when you celebrate, you honor the resilience of the human spirit, recognizing both your own strength and that of those around you.
This journey taught me that life isn’t just about achieving goals, but about showing up—especially when it feels impossible. Gratitude transformed my hardship into triumph, and every step of that marathon became a moment worth celebrating.