i am running for my life and the lives of other diabetics

Approximately 41,000 people in Virginia and 1.4 million people nationwide are diagnosed with diabetes every year. In 2001, I became a part of that statistic. Now, I need your help to raise awareness for encouragement and support for healthy diet, exercise and motivation.

RUN. ENRICH. REVIVE.

MY STORY

EUGENE

THOMPSON

My journey began 14 years ago when I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, like many of my family members. I was 38 and out of shape. I was taking a lot of medication to control my blood sugar, but I was feeling worse and gaining weight.

2012 was my wake up call. I was hiking with my son. Halfway through the hike, I couldn’t keep up with him. This was not the life I wanted for my family or myself. I had been in denial. This was the moment that I decided to fight.

I began a diet regimen that I disliked immensely, but it was working. I dropped 45 pounds in 6 months. Then, I began running. My blood sugar dropped, and with it, I reduced my insulin by 75%.

As a goal-oriented person, I needed something to work toward. A marathon was the ultimate challenge. A triumph that would have been inconceivable even a year earlier. In January of 2014, at the age of 48, I ran my first marathon at Disney in Florida. I finished. I was sore and tired. And I was stoked!

I achieved my ridiculous goal of running five more marathons that first year. In 2015, I ran 13 marathons in 11 different states, and yes, I did hear "Run Forrest Run" all the time.

Now, I am running for my life and the lives of other diabetics.

RUNNING FOR DIABETES AWARENESS AND EDUCATION

upcoming races

Eugene plans to run 12 more marathons in 2019. Join him at the race or donate today to support the cause. Is there a must-run race on your list? Contact us and let us know!