As I slipped my feet back into my heels, I’d never felt more defeated. Ever wish you could click your heels and escape? I mean, it worked for Dorothy. At home, I lost it. As the tears streamed down my face, I knew it was time to make a change.
Infertility affects one in six. Multiple medical professionals suggested I find a way to drop excess weight and relax. What now? My baby dreams seemed like they would never become a reality, and I’m supposed to “relax”?
At the time, I lived near a golf course, and each morning and evening, I would see people of all ages running and walking. So, I decided to give it a try. Every morning, my husband and I went for a walk. Eventually, things started to change. No, my motherhood dreams didn’t become a reality overnight, but my mental health began to shift.
A few months into this new routine, I was tempted to run. Then, one day, I did. But here’s the craziest part: I kind of liked it! With my newfound hobby, I somehow mustered the courage to register for my first 5k.
It was a warm day in May of 2012 when I laced up my sneakers and ran with pure joy. Running had become such a joy in my life. It brought with it new friendships, inspiration, and, dare I say it, helped me to relax! By mid-summer, I registered for my first half-marathon. I was a runner, and if I never got the chance to be a mom, I was learning to be okay with it.
I ran my first half marathon and loved it. So, naturally, I decided to register for my first full marathon. I was all set to run my first full marathon. Then, at the outset of my training plan, I learned that a baby was on the way. Running helped me cope through the hard times of my infertility journey, and now it was time to place my new dream of being a marathoner on hold.
Running helped heal the many parts of me that I didn’t realize were broken. It gave me confidence, provided me with time to think and clear my head, and brought incredible joy and peace.
My mental health flourished as I continued to build up mileage. Running helped me through the challenges of transitioning into motherhood, not once, but through three pregnancies. The busier life got, the more running became a priority as I cared for my mental and physical health.
It helped me achieve realities that didn’t seem possible and has brought incredible people into my life.
Infertility affects many people, and often, people are hesitant to share their heartaches.
12 years ago, I didn’t know what a world major marathon was. I didn’t know much about mental health or “runner’s high.” I just went out for a walk with my husband, and it completely changed my life. Now, in just a few short weeks, I get to lace up my sneakers again and run the streets of Chicago while advocating for mental health all along the way.
You never know what’s on the other side of a first step. I am so grateful for the journey running has taken me on.
-Erin Jimenez, Chicago Marathon Runner, Still I Run Ambassador, and South Florida Run Chapter Captain
