My first medal!

[Sconepal]

Considering that I had two artificial discs inserted in my spine back in 2006 and that my balance still resembles that of Bambi on ice, I never entertained the idea of being able to run.

I’m approaching 50 and have such a passion for food that means I will never be skinny or rich. The only exercise I have done in the past 2 years involved walking at National Trust properties, usually rewarded with a cream tea.

On 4 February this year, whilst recovering from my worst episode of anxiety and depression in 5 years, I woke up feeling incredibly motivated. I started the C2K programme that day and surprised myself with my progress week on week.

When I graduated on 13 April I was running laps around the local rec for 30 minutes but not covering 5k.

I found a disused Airfield to run around and progressed to covering the 5k distance fairly quickly, primarily due to the rural and tranquil location. The only sound I can hear is birdsong (and my heavy breathing!)

At the start of May signed up for a Race at Your Pace challenge to cover 25 miles during the month. In that time I have knocked over 7 minutes of my personal best. I’m never going to be fast but I am loving the experience and look forward to every run. My health and wellbeing has improved so much. My medication has been reduced and I am feeling happy, positive and well.

I’m very proud to have completed the challenge and I have now received my first ever medal 😍🏅 🏃‍♀️

[ButtercupKid Graduate]

Brilliant ! We’re all so proud of you ⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Cally73 Graduate]

Well done! You should be super proud of yourself! I have just signed up to Race at your pace for June and have also pledged to run 25 miles. It’s going to be a huge challenge but I am determined to give it a good go!

[RunRunRun13 Graduate in reply to Cally73]

Well done ! Me too although I pledged 50 (not quite sure why...must have pressed wrong button) 🙄

Good luck with your challenge x

[Lindsey-joy Graduate]

What a wonderful and inspirational post. Thank you for sharing your story. Congratulations on your amazing progress and your medal, eeek! I have signed up for the June challenge 😊

[Stephen_UK Graduate]

Congratulations! This is so inspiring. I also feel happier for running. It’s miraculous, isn’t it?

[SaskAlliecat Graduate]

Yay! That's a lovely piece of bling! Display it proudly 😊

[Knittingrunner]

Well done. That’s a brilliant achievement. I’ve singed up for this challenge for June to keep me motivated as the weather warms up. 😊🏃🏻‍♀️👏

[smeeagain Graduate]

Fantastic....well done!!!!!

[RunRunRun13 Graduate]

What a wonderful story and well done to you and well deserved !

I have just signed up for Race your Pace (50 Miles) are you doing one this month ?

Good luck for all your new challenges 👍

[Mumpark Graduate]

Brilliant post.

I have signed up for race at your pace for the first time I’m doing 50 miles for June.

I figured it gives you something to aim for and keep you motivated.Are you doing it again for June ?

[Lifluf]

Wow! You are an inspiration. Well done and hope you keep it up.

[JaoJao]

Well done! I have entered Race At Your Pace for June xx