In April 2016, I performed with the The Christ Hospital Health Network choir, 98 Degrees, at Music Hall during ArtsWave's CincySings competition finals. After our performance, I had my picture taken with a co-worker, and after viewing that picture, I knew I needed to make a major life change. I was overweight, uncomfortable and leading a sedentary lifestyle.

In May 2016, my weight-loss journey began. We all have challenges and obstacles in our lives. We also have those voices within telling us that we cannot be successful at a certain challenge or that we are a failure, so we should just quit. I decided not to listen to the negativity anymore and that I was going to be successful in changing my life and developing healthy habits.

I made this change through diet and exercise. I joined the Jenny Craig program and starting walking three days a week, which progressed to running or walking five days a week. I am married to a runner believe it or not, and during my journey, I had amazing support from my husband, children, family and friends. I was not a runner by any means at first, but became a runner at the age of 56 years. I ran my first 5K at "Girls on the Run" in November 2016 and have since run in multiple 5K races as well as my first half marathon in November 2017 on my 57th birthday, where I was accompanied by my family.

We will again be running together during the four-person Flying Pig relay this year. Running has become a huge part of my life with my husband and family.

#GetPiggyWithTCH

In celebration of the Flying Pig Marathon's 20th Anniversary on May 5 & 6, we've asked some of our physician and employee runners to blog about their experiences, share tips they've learned along the way, and provide inspiration for those who might interested in participating this year for the first time, whether for the 5K, 10K, relay, half marathon or full marathon. 

Are you planning to walk or run one of the events? Be sure to share your preparation and inspiration photos on Instagram, Twitter or our Facebook page using the hashtag, #GetPiggyWithTCH, for a chance to be featured on our social media channels!