October 2024: 7 Years Strong

This summer, I have been training for my first marathon. Growing up, I was never much of a runner; in fact, I hated running. The thought of running 26.2 miles was not something I would ever consider possible, much less an activity I would ever attempt. However, it’s amazing what becomes possible and enticing when you change your mindset to one of focusing on each day, pushing yourself mentally and physically, and having a very real “why.”

This month marks the seventh anniversary of my best friend, Jacob Thompson, changing my life. He donated his kidney to me when I needed a transplant. On Oct. 31, 2017, Jacob kissed his eight-month-pregnant wife, Carly, before they rolled him back to the operating room. Shortly after that, they took me back.

Jacob saved my life that day. He also provided me with the ability to live life as I had before my kidneys began to fail. As is often said, you never realize the importance of your health until it is gone. I was determined to do all I could to honor Jacob and his gift from that moment on, including staying as physically healthy as possible.

The medication I am on to keep my immune system from attacking Jacob’s kidney has side effects, one of which is creating osteopenia. This can eventually lead to osteoporosis, but exercise is one of the best treatments. So, my journey began. I want to maintain my mobility for as long as possible to be the best husband and father I can be for my family.
That is my “why.”

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