Nothing Changes if Nothing Changes: From Half Marathon Dream to Full Marathon Reality

On November 3, 2019, I ran my first half marathon. It wasn’t just a race; it was a turning point, a glimpse into what could be possible. I wrote a blog then, detailing my transformation from a non-runner who had packed on pounds after a back injury to someone who found strength and purpose on the pavement. In that blog, I promised myself that I’d run a full marathon “very soon.” But as years passed, the “soon” stretched out, and the full marathon I envisioned felt like a distant goal.

Five years later, on November 3, 2024, I finally crossed the full marathon finish line.

The question that lingers is simple: Why did it take so long? The answer, however, is anything but simple.

2019: Overcoming Doubt and Injury

Back in 2019, I was a 210-pound non-runner recovering from an L4-L5 disc collapse, something that nearly ended my ability to lift more than a few pounds. After spending years avoiding physical activity, I finally dipped my toes into running, encouraged by colleagues who invited me to join the "5K Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure." At first, I was nervous—even injured my knee during my first practice run. But I managed to complete that 5K, and a new world opened up. Weekend by weekend, I started running with the same group, pushing myself to two, then three miles, and finally committed to the Oak City Half Marathon.

I learned something powerful during that time: "It's supposed to be hard. Hard is what makes it great." With determination, support from my family, and the company of my nine-year-old son who rode alongside me on a bike for long runs, I finished my first half marathon in 2 hours and 13 minutes. That day taught me that when it comes to running—or life—quitting is not an option. Finishing, no matter how painful, holds a satisfaction that’s hard to match.

But then, life happened. The pandemic hit, and like so many others, I put my marathon dreams on hold. A couple of years passed, and self-doubt crept back in. I was five years older and wondering if I still had it in me to go the distance.

2024: A Wake-Up Call

Then, in early 2024, I signed up for the Goggins Challenge—48 hours of running 4 miles every 4 hours—to support my colleague Jack Holmes in his battle against a rare cancer. Jack's resilience and determination to raise funds and awareness for Chromosomal Translocation Sarcoma gave me the push I needed. With my friends Pawan Gupta, David Black, and Leonardo Avelar by my side, we ran through fatigue, pain, and sleeplessness to honor Jack's fight. Every mile was a tribute to his bravery and a reminder that life’s battles are worth fighting for.

After finishing the Goggins Challenge, Pawan Gupta and I made a commitment: we would run a full marathon. No more delays. No more doubts.

The Road to the Marathon

For seven months, I poured myself into training, clocking 30 miles each week, totaling 840 miles and 140 hours. My family, friends, and community stood by me. My son often joined me on the trail, his presence a reminder of my why. My wife picked up countless responsibilities at home to allow me the time to run. I missed social events, long weekends, and family moments, but each step brought me closer to my goal.

On the hardest days, I reminded myself of the saying: “Nothing changes if nothing changes.” Each long run, each sacrifice, was a step toward breaking down my own doubts and rebuilding belief in my capabilities.

Marathon Day: November 3, 2024

With 7,000 participants, and a brisk 45 degrees in the air, the energy at the start line was electric. Although only 10% of us were there for the full marathon, the camaraderie was undeniable. I knew the biggest battle would be in my mind, not my legs.

As I ran, I reached mile 20 with a sense of calm. I’d been here before. I reminded myself that pain was temporary, and at each mile marker, I dedicated the distance to someone important in my life:

• Mile 21 was for my friends and running mates, Pawan Gupta and Shivaansh Gupta, whose encouragement and motivation carried me through this journey
• Mile 22 was for my extended family and friends, who supported me in countless ways.
• Mile 23 was for my wife, who shouldered our family’s daily needs and gave me the freedom to pursue this dream.
• Mile 24 was for my son, my steadfast running partner, who had completed his own half marathon the same day.
• Mile 25 was for my daughter, the joyful spirit in our family who has an unwavering commitment to making everyone feel loved.
• Mile 26 was for Jack Holmes, for his courage and the legacy he left us. Jack’s passing on October 3, 2024, was a stark reminder of time's fleeting nature.

As I reached mile 26, I saw my son standing by, ready to join me for the final 0.2 miles. His words, “Dad, I’m proud of you,” lifted the weight of every previous mile and made the finish line feel like the ultimate victory. Crossing it, I was greeted by the poster my daughter had painstakingly crafted and my family and friends cheering me on, including two friends who’d driven 170 miles just to witness this moment.

What This Journey Taught Me

Running this marathon reminded me that our lives are shaped by the people who believe in us, even when we doubt ourselves. I learned that anything worth achieving requires a commitment that doesn’t waiver when the going gets tough. The path from non-runner to marathoner wasn’t a quick one, but every setback and every challenge made the victory sweeter.

To anyone on a journey to their own finish line—whether it’s a marathon, a new career, or a personal transformation—remember: Nothing changes if nothing changes. Change is uncomfortable, but it’s also the birthplace of dreams fulfilled. With support, grit, and a little faith, anything is possible.

Thank you to my family, friends, and community for standing with me. And to Jack, this marathon was for you. Rest in peace, my friend.

If you ever find yourself questioning human resilience, go out and watch a marathon.