Name: Daniella Samulewski Home: Mississauga, ON
Age: 37
Life before running
In the summer of 2007, I was 90lbs overweight (based on my BMI). A friend joined a gym and I went along, thinking that it would be fun to spend time together. I really didn't have high expectations since I've joined gyms in the past and have had little success. But through lots of hard work and two amazing personal trainers, I lost 50lbs. My confidence was beginning to grow.
Turning Point
After losing the 50lbs, I needed to set some goals to keep me challenged. So in January 2009, I challenged myself with some BIG goals. I wanted to complete just a single one-armed push-up. I trained and did it! Next: run a half marathon. Never having run before, I knew this would challenge me and I was up for it. All I wanted to do was cross that finish line.
The Plan
Since I was a novice runner, I knew I needed help. I joined a Learn-to-Run Clinic in March 2009 and when we finished in June, I went straight into the Half Marathon Clinic. The support and encouragement I got from my clinic leaders and co-runners, even though I was a slow runner, got me really excited for race day. That day, I had family and friends lining the route to cheer me on. Seeing them shouting and clapping encouragement made it an amazing experience. And somewhere along my journey, it dawned on me, I AM A RUNNER and I LOVE to run!The Biggest Reward
Many of my friends and family didn't think I could achieve my goal. Crossing that finish line in 2:41 was so emotional for me. First, for myself, I proved that I can overcome big challenges. And secondly, I showed the doubters that hard work and dedication can make any dream come true. These successes made it all worthwhile.
My tips for success
1. The goal is to cross that finish line. It doesn't matter the time but the journey to get there. By focusing on time, you miss the pleasure of the run.
2. Remember there will be bad runs. it will make you appreciate the good runs more!
3. Puddles are meant to be jumped in - not avoided!
You are an inspiration Daniella! Not only do you work so hard on reaching your goals, you always encourage others along the way! :D I will be cheering you on WHEN you run FULL marathon next year! Keep it up beautiful! Solange
ReplyDeleteDaniella! An inspiraton for everyone,you have character and style. You modifate others to feeling and knowing they can finish the race no matter what! I will not forget your words that I will replay in my head tomorrow when I do my Triathlon,"will do great!" Thanks a million!
ReplyDeleteI've always been proud of everything you've done, but your journey of weight loss and achieving physical fitness has truly been awesome. Just ask my friends at work - I never stopped bragging about how much you have achieved. You ARE beautiful and can tackle any challenge. Good luck on your next run!
ReplyDeleteCiocia Barb
Daniella, you have always been an inspiration to those around you. I have been witness to your journey thus far and have seen you face obstacles, personal, social and professional that might have driven others to dispair. You fought through with determination and a belief that life is what it is but each one of us must persevere on the journey. In you there is an inner beauty to match your outer one. The running has become a metafor for your life- its hard while you are chugging up those hills but the joy and euphoria of completing the run and crossing the finish line is your reward!Babcia and Dziadzia would be right beside mw with our chests puffed out with pride.
ReplyDeleteLove Mom.