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My name is Marlene Diers and I am the Assistant Director for Employee Health & Well-Being! I wanted to share my “Healthy Hobby” with all of you and hope that you will be inspired to share your story with us.
I was never active as a child. In fact, I probably watched more television than anything else. My parents were always encouraging me to participate in a variety of sports and activities such as basketball, volleyball, ballet, soccer, golf, and swimming. I never enjoyed any of it back then, because I never felt that I was good at any of it. I couldn’t overhand serve in volleyball, I wasn’t graceful enough for ballet, I came in last in every swimming competition, I couldn’t stand soccer, and I was decent in basketball and golf. Needless to say – I didn’t feel the least bit inspired to be an athlete given my lack of athletic ability.
As I got older, I found an interest in working out and focusing on my health. But it wasn’t until 2004 when I realized something I never knew – I loved to run! One day, I just decided to head outside for a walk/jog through the park. I found myself at peace in nature doing something I truly enjoyed. I kept it up and believe it or not, made the decision to train for the LaSalle Bank’s Chicago Marathon later that year. I remember calling my parents after the first Sunday group long run – 6 miles! I had never run that far in my life! They were proud of me and I couldn’t help but think back to all of the sports I hadn’t been good at – but this I could do, and this was something that felt right. I finished the marathon that year – and I have never felt so good about anything else I have ever done in my life. Crossing that finish line was a moment of triumph that I will never forget!
I had been told that running becomes addictive, and I have found that to be the truth. I continue to run, whether it is for fun or in local races. I run because it just feels good. I run because that is where I can be me.
-The picture is of me and Reginald Fennell (KNH professor) after the 2007 Reggae Run.
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