Inspiration. Dedication. Motivation.
Perseverance. Kindness. Willpower.
Innovation. Determination. Bravery.
Human Spirit.
Running through parts of Philadelphia, cheered on by men from a nearby homeless shelter... one day she stopped and made a life changing decision for not only herself, but many others. She started Back on My Feet. The following is taken from her site:
"Back on My Feet is a non-profit organization that promotes the self-sufficiency of the homeless population by engaging them in running as a means to build confidence, strength and self-esteem."Now more than 600 members strong, and expanding into more cities, it's amazing to think what she accomplished because of her passion for running.
As we're all busy shopping for Christmas gifts... she has given things that are far more important, that which money cannot buy -- hope, confidence, an identity, life, to name a few.
Would you have stopped?
18 comments:
Hi Mel,
Thanks for the comment and follow on my blog. I think I might try the exercise bike after a few weeks. Not sure if I can do it with the boot but we shall see. I'm not that great of a swimmer and don't care much for the water so I'll pass on that. I just want to do something to maintain my endurance. In the meantime I'll work on my core and upper body.
Amazing! I read about her in Runners World - a hero for sure!
Not that this compares...but..on Tuesday Scott and I fit kids with bike helmets at a Boys and Girls club. it was rainy, and very nasty outside and Scott really was not looking forward to going out in it. The first little boy that he fit starting singing "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and Scott just about lost it. WHAT A MOMENT. It was a true gift given to Scott....and all of us.
This is the charity that Denise did her ultra with - she had such a fantastic ultra story too!
I really love the charities that focus on local issues. It's all too easy to forget the people right here who can need help. Great spotlight!
I LOVE your Inspiration Showcase stories!!!!!
I've heard this story before and LOVE the concept/organization.
I have a huge heart for charity stuff, but I need to do more still! Stories like this inspire me to be a better person. Thanks Mel!
Love this series of posts, Mel. I have a (not so) secret desire to start a Back on my Feet in my city someday. I've always said someday, though. I should check it out more seriously.
Thanks for your kind words today, too :-) You definitely inspire me :-)
I love stories like that. Girl power!
I've heard of Anne's story, actually think I first heard about it on Good Morning America. It's a wonderful story, thanks for sharing!! :)
Thank you for finding and sharing these great stories with us. Truly moving!
A perfect story for the holiday season. Thanks for sharing it.
I remember her story from Runner's World magazine-very inspirational. This world needs more inspiration for sure these days!
Nice addition to your blog!
Another awesome, inspiring post! It's amazing how the courage and dedication of one person can make such a difference in the world.
Thanks for sharing her story!
great post
I've seen this story, just amazing. I love it.
Very inspirational story. Thanks for sharing it! BTW: Love your Inspiration Showcase series.
Awesome series! I read about this in runners world and it is a great story.
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