I started running in 2008 after I went through a minor illness. I thought I needed to find something active for me in order to keep my body healthy so I wouldn’t have to go through what I had to go through in order to get better. I started going to bootcamp at the Y and could do a mile and then slowly I was able to increase my distance and my speed. After completing 2 half marathons I am now training for my first marathon.
I initially decided to do the marathon to cross it off my bucket list and to lose some weight and to better my health. I was running just cause I wanted to do it. Then one day while running my mind started to wander as it often does on longer runs and I started to think of ways I could raise money for my theatre in New Hampshire. Like all non-profits we need money all the time and I am constantly looking for new ways to bring money into our coffers. Then it hit me.
I can run for a just cause. I can put together a way for people who have supported my running by putting comments on Facebook to support my theatre as well. I have to say since I have launched this campaign it means more to me when I run. I am not only helping myself, but I am helping bring culture to a community. I am helping bring commerce to a community. I am helping my staff put food on their table by running.
So now when I feel like walking or stopping my run because I am just not in the mood, I remember it is not just about me anymore and I run.