3 Reasons Why I Decided to Run a Marathon (Despite Hating Running)
Approximately three weeks ago, I signed up for my very first marathon. I know, I know—me, the person who’s never enjoyed running and who’s definitely never experienced that mythical “runner’s high” everyone keeps talking about. But hey, why let a little thing like common sense stop me? I get asked a lot of questions now that I’ve publicly committed to this endeavor, and the two most common ones are:
- “Oh, you must really love running.”
- “You must run races all the time.”
The answer to both of those is a resounding NO. To clarify, I don’t love running. I don’t even like running. Just to clarify, I was a softball athlete therefore running for me was the 60 feet from home to first. As for races, I’ve only run one half marathon in my life, and that was back when I was in the best shape of my life… and also fresh off a D1 athletic career where working out was literally my job.
So, knowing all of that, why on earth would I sign up for a marathon? I’ll tell you why: three very questionable reasons.
- I know a good cause when I see one, and when my brother called me about running to raise money for Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, I was faced with two options: donate or dust off my running shoes. Spoiler alert—I’m running.
For those who don’t know, my adorable little nephew Liam had quite the dramatic entrance into this world. Born just after 30 weeks, he spent 70 days in the NICU at Lurie Children’s. Later, he was diagnosed with a right aortic arch, creating a vascular ring that made eating solid foods impossible. At just 17 months, Liam underwent a successful heart surgery at Lurie Children’s and finally got to experience the joy of solid foods.
Grateful doesn’t even begin to cover how we feel about the incredible care Lurie Children’s provided for Liam. So now, my brother, cousin, fiancé, and I have joined forces to form Team Liam for the 2025 Chicago Marathon. Yes, I’m running 26.2 miles. Yes, willingly.
- On a personal note, this marathon is pulling double duty: it’s also my wedding workout accountability partner. Every month, I’ve told myself, “This is it! The month I start working out to get in shape for the big day!” And every month… crickets. After 32 years on this planet, I’ve learned one thing about myself: I need a big, scary goal to get moving. Signing up for a marathon? Definitely qualifies. As a former athlete, I don’t just want to survive this race—I want to crush it.
3. Signing up was the kick I needed. Within 24 hours, I had a full running program mapped out and a newfound determination to not just prepare for my wedding, but also for my future (and by that I mean children). As a pelvic floor therapist, I preach the benefits of good nutrition and exercise for fertility, and now I’m walking (well, running) the talk. I’ve made some great changes for my health, but marathon training is about taking things to the next level—building endurance, strength, and maybe some healthier snack habits (goodbye, that leftover halloween candy… until next year).
So, here’s to the marathon, my nephew Liam’s journey, and a healthier future. If you’re cheering us on, supporting Lurie Children’s, or just laughing at the thought of me pounding the pavement for 26.2 miles—thank you. Every step (and every cramp) is for a good cause.
If you’d like to join us in supporting Lurie Children’s and help cheer on Team Liam, your donation can make a big difference! Every contribution supports the amazing care and life-changing work that Lurie Children’s provides for families like ours. You can donate here: https://events.luriechildrens.org/marathon-team/running-for-liam-?[{tracking}]
Thank you for your support—it means the world to us and to Liam! 🧡
Meal Time for Liam!
In Conclusion: Why Not?
So, here I am—three weeks into training (and barely able to move without groaning), but I’m sticking with it. I’ve got just less than a year to go before race day, and while I’m committing to 26.2 miles of something I hate, I’m pretty sure I’ll have a good story to tell. Plus, the feeling of accomplishment at the end is worth it, right?
If you’re thinking of signing up for a marathon too, just remember: It doesn’t matter if you’re a runner or not. What matters is that you’re doing something completely irrational, and that, my friends, is the spirit of the marathon.