In My Running Shoes was founded in 2019. Our mission is to empower people with chronic diseases to be active, maintain control of their lives, and proactively manage their diseases. We intend to achieve this mission by providing resources to people with chronic diseases that will enable these individuals to be active, fear nothing, and turn obstacles into hurdles. Our goal is to provide motivational support through our website and blog, and to provide grants for physical activity related endeavors such as physical therapy, medical devices, personal training, workout equipment, race entries, and other fitness related necessities.
It is indisputable that physical activity plays a role in the management of many chronic diseases. For those of us with chronic diseases, physical activity enables a sense of power and control of our disease, and ultimately our lives, which is beneficial for long-term disease management and our overall well-being. While clinical trials are sparse, there is enough evidence to conclude that physical activity is good for people with chronic diseases.
For our Founder, Dawn, being active, especially running, has been essential to her overall well-being and management of her Multiple Sclerosis. When MS has made her feel vulnerable, particularly at the time of her diagnosis, running has proven to be an empowering experience for her. It was the one thing that made Dawn’s body feel like her own. Let’s be honest, we all know exercise is good for everyone, and it can be a very empowering experience.
The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) states, “Adults with chronic conditions or disabilities, who are able, should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) to 300 minutes (5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes) to 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity. Preferably, aerobic activity should be spread throughout the week.” The guidelines continue to recommend two or more days a week of muscle-strengthening exercises, but caution that if you cannot meet the recommended guidelines doing some physical activity is better that doing nothing at all. In other words, inactivity is bad.
That is why when MS-related drop foot tried to take running away from Dawn, she fought (and is still fighting) to keep what has become so special to her. The fight is mentally and physically challenging, and comes with a financial burden. Budgeting for resources that are not covered by healthcare insurance, and finding people who experiencing the same challenges as you are not easy tasks.
So what happens when a person would like to exercise but can’t due to a limitation, physical, mental or financial? Who’s there to help? Who will tell you that you can do it when you fear you can’t? How will you find the best way to be active for you? How will you afford the resources to get yourself active and keep yourself active?
That’s why we founded In My Running Shoes. Our goal is to turn obstacles into hurdles and help those with chronic diseases stay active and achieve their fitness goals.
We are a 501(c)3 registered tax-exempted non-profit corporation.