Brian's Story: From 380 Pounds to Half Marathon Finisher

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When I weighed 380 pounds, I never thought I would ever be a runner, even in a million years. After having gastric bypass surgery in December 2011, guess what? I caught the running bug. 


The first week after my surgery, I started walking on the treadmill for about 20 minutes at a time. Over the next few months, I slowly increased my time and started jogging some, too. I began progressing more and more each day, and after a few months I was up to 2.5 miles per day.

 I completed my first 5K in June 2013, the Bel Air Town Run, in about 30 mins. My second race was the GBMC Father's Day 5K. I have done both of these races every year since 2013; they will always be near and dear to me.

 I trained myself and ran my first Half Marathon in April 2014. I was determined to run the entire race and not stop to walk and I finished the race in 2 hours,17 minutes. I have since completed four Half Marathons, several 10K, 5K, and 10 miler races.

One of the best parts of running is when you are finished and realize the accomplishment that you just finished. Running lets me clear my mind and have an overall sense of satisfaction. One of the best parts is the friendships I have found while joining the running community. I joined a local running club, RASAC. 

Life after weight loss surgery is incredible. Not only being able to run, but the ability to do things like ride roller coasters or sit on a plane and have room to spare.

 I've been given the chance to have a life that I have never experienced before. I plan on running my first Full Marathon next year for my 50th birthday, I will not quit.
My advice to new runners who have registered for their first 5K: Don’t give up! Finish the race, walk, run, whatever you do, never give up!

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John Chessare MD

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