From Running 5Ks to Rolling with Purpose

My Unexpected Journey

I’m always reluctant when asked to tell what God has done in my life. It’s not that I’m not appreciative, it’s just that I feel like it is whining and complaining. But I’m learning that my experience may be able to help someone who is going through a similar storm in their life.

Back in 2015, I was all about 5K races. I completed about four that year and was loving my active lifestyle. I also loved that I was helping raise money for various organizations. For the next 5 years, I tried various physical activities and even bought an elliptical after getting tired of dogs chasing me during morning walks.

The Unexpected Detour

My life took a dramatic turn in 2020. Just months after marrying my junior high school sweetheart, I suffered a diabetic stroke. And when I say my blood sugar was high, I mean *really* high — we’re talking 1200 when my normal is around 180. Crazy, right?

Recovery was tough. My dad was incredible, gently but firmly pushing me to get back on my feet. Those weeks of therapy were intense. As if that wasn’t challenging enough, the medication I received in the hospital led to me losing my toes on my left foot in 2021.