Story by Steph

I started running almost 6 years ago in college as a way to try and cope with anxiety, an ED, and being away from home for the first time. I was really active as a kid, but in High school I stopped playing sports all together.

 

I was away from home for the first time, I was in an unhealthy relationship, and I had developed a hatred for my own body. I realized I needed a way to cope with stress and decided to go for a run with girls in my dorm when I was invited.

 

At that point, I didn’t even own running shoes – but I still showed up. I made it about a quarter mile before I was hunched over and gasping for air. I’ll never forget that feeling and how mad I was at myself that I couldn’t do it. I set a goal that I wanted to train to run a mile right then and there and it ignited a spark in me.

 

I didn’t know that that day and that decision would catapult me into an entirely new life – 19 half marathons, 2 marathons, and thousands of miles in-between.

 

Running has been transformative for me in more ways that I can count. It has taught me grit and determination, it has helped teach me my self-worth, and it has introduced me to some of the most amazing people in my life.