Story of the Month

Story of the Month is Back!

Recently our Fall 2009 No Boundaries Group completed the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5k. Everyone did an amazing job! The groups determination and desire to complete the training and the race was truely inspiring! This Story of the Month features two ladies; one is a new runner and one has completed several Fleet Feet training groups. While their stories for this 5K are different, they shared in a competetive drive to finish the race! Please read Brandi Sample and Jane Howard's stories and let them inspire you!

Brandi Sample

• How did you hear about the No Boundaries Program?

I was working towards a healthier lifestyle and Chris Phillips suggested that I check out this program. Also one of the girls I work with was friends with one of the coaches, so I decided to give it a try.

• Have you ever done anything like this before?

No, I had never done anything like this before! I worked out a little here and there on the treadmill.

• What was your favorite part of the program?

Finishing it, but not because I was glad it was over! Finishing the race and all the work-outs that I wasn't sure I could do. The first day we had to do a mile and I thought about getting my money back, but I finished that mile and I wanted to do another one.

• What did having coaches bring to the experience?

A positive outlook, they always let us know we could do it. I was never left behind and when I didn't want to go, they pushed me!

• Did your family come to the race?

Yes! It was a family affair. My parents, sisters and 3 year old daughter were there. It brought us together and now my sisters want to do the next No Boundaries program. My parents can't wait for my next race. It's also something I can do with my daughter. I would like to do some fun runs with her!

• What changes have you made in your lifestyle?

I have a healthier outlook and I'm more confident in myself. I want to eat healthier and run! I have accountablilty for my lifestyle. I just feel better and I can keep up with my daughter better! I also formed friendships with other girls that I wouldn't have met without the program.

• What would you tell other beginners?

Keep coming back!

• How would describe the feeling of completeing your first 5k?

I guess I had that runners high! I've still got it, that's why I signed up for the new 10k group. I want to run, I can't wait to do another race!

A fun little note: The other night during the downpour Brandi was the first one, out of a brave few, to show up for the group workout! Just goes to show how determined she really is!

Jane Howard

• How did you get started in the No Boundaries training group?

Linda Issac talked me into it! This was for the 2008 Komen race. I started out in the walk /run group, but actually ended up running the entire race.

• What motivated you join this group?

My mother-in-law, Granny Rose was diagnosed with breast cancer.

• What was your second training group?

The Charity Chase half-marathon training group. Jill Griffin talked me into this one! In this race I did the walk/run.

• You came back for No Boundaries 2009 this fall again, why?

This year my neice Beth was diagnosed with breast cancer.

• What motivated you to keep doing these training programs?

When I think about my Granny Rose and my neice Beth and all they have to endure with chemo and both having masectomies, I think about those "tough hills" and they suddenly aren't so tough. I'm doing it for them!

• What else do you love about the groups?

The friends I make and have that participate with me. It also gives me accountabilty to maintain this lifestyle.

Jane is participating in her fourth training group now! Jane Howard has lost 10 lbs. and 3 dress sizes since she started the training programs. She has maintained this!