How my marathon journey began
Yes you probably heard the quote go like this " Only 1% of the people in the world would complete a marathon." and let me tell you something it was something more beyond than I could ever imagined or thought of when someone was telling me that they were running a marathon. It was a literal like, walk in someone else's shoes and the journey to get to those shoes was mesmerizing.
As a guy who's been overweight his whole life to getting to run a marathon in his life is something I didn't have planned. Getting weight loss surgery was something that wasn't easy to come by. I tried everything and thought it was an easy way out but it's not. It's a way to breathe and get the help you need, it's so rewarding and a whole journey itself! The struggles of long runs to nonstop running without taking breaks and all the in between. Getting to run a marathon is something in my mind everyone should experience; walk, run, do whatever you have to do.
Lessons were taught, tears were shed, memories were made and most importantly I'm proud that I did that all by myself of course with love and support from family and friends!
Can't wait for this feeling again at NYC this year with Team for Kids! Fundraising for charity is an amazing way to give back to the community and run a world Major marathon of course!!! @New York Road Runners
I hope I can be inspiring and motivation and most importantly helpful to people feeling the same way that I do or have gone through major changes in life such as weight loss, or WLS, or just a pivotal moment in there life.
Embarking on my marathon journey after weight loss surgery was an experience filled with both physical and emotional challenges. Before surgery, I weighed over 400 pounds, and running seemed nearly impossible. The decision to undergo gastric sleeve surgery was not an easy one; it came with doubts and fears. But it marked the beginning of a new chapter, giving me a chance to breathe easier and slowly build my stamina. Consistency in training became my companion. I remember the intimidating first attempts at treadmill running, wary of moving beyond the gym's safety into the unpredictability of outdoor races. Signing up for the Philadelphia Marathon months in advance pushed me to stay committed, even when the long runs tested my resolve. Each race—from 5Ks to half-marathons like the unforgettable Coney Island Half Marathon—served as stepping stones, improving my pace and confidence. The process of training was more than physical preparation; it was a mental transformation too. The journey taught me resilience, patience, and how to celebrate small victories, like finally breaking below 300 pounds and trimming minutes off my 5K time. The camaraderie and support of family, friends, and the running community fueled my motivation. Fundraising with Team for Kids for the NYC Marathon added a rewarding purpose beyond personal achievement. For anyone considering weight loss surgery or facing a pivotal life change, I hope my story offers encouragement. Running a marathon is not about speed or competition—it's about the journey, dedication, and embracing the challenges. Whether walking, jogging, or running, the experience reshapes not just the body, but the mind and spirit as well. This journey isn't over; every mile run carries memories of struggle and triumph, and I look forward to sharing more moments from marathons yet to come.