Breaking Barrier: My Journey to 10km

 

In May 2024, I took my first hesitant step into running, introduced by a friend to a running club. On my very first run, I barely managed 200 meters before I was breathless, my legs felt like rocks, and every step seemed impossible. Those initial weeks were filled with struggle—crippling cramps, locked legs, and the constant feeling that I simply couldn’t do it. I often found myself complaining, doubting my ability to ever become a runner.  

But deep inside, I knew I had the strength to fight. Life had already tested me in so many ways, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that resilience can carry you through the toughest of times. Slowly, painfully, and with immense effort, I kept showing up every Wednesday and Sunday, even though I am always the slowest runner in the group.  

During this journey, I found inspiration in the stories of others—people who had battled health issues yet pushed themselves to overcome their limits. Their struggles and determination gave me hope. But the most profound source of my strength came from my father.  

Earlier this year, I lost my father to cancer, a relentless disease that consumed him over 14 months. I was not informed anything about this disease till it became a cruel reality for our family. I witnessed his immense suffering, his courage, and his will to fight every single day, even in his final moments. We remember being beside him throughout in the hospital and during his last hours, watching him helplessly struggle for each breath. The pain of losing him is indescribable, but his bravery stayed with me.

When I ran and felt breathless, his image came to mind. If my father could fight through unimaginable pain with courage, how could I give up on something. I reminded myself that I am my father’s daughter, and his strength flows within me. With tears streaming down my face, I pushed forward.  

Then came one fine Sunday—a turning point in my journey. I usually ran 5 kilometers, but that day, I decided to push myself to 7 kilometers. As I approached the 6-kilometer mark, something inside me shifted. I told myself, “No, today I will go further. Today, I will run 10 kilometers.”  

It wasn’t about pace or competition. It was about endurance, about proving to myself that I could do it. I texted my friends, telling them they didn’t need to wait for me as it would take me at least another 40 minutes. And then I ran. Step by step, breath by breath, I completed those 10 kilometers.  

At the finish line, I was overwhelmed with joy and pride. My friends, who had waited for me despite my message, cheered me on. My coach was proud of me for breaking through my own barriers. All the members are really motivating and supportive. It wasn’t a fast run but that didn’t matter. What mattered was that I believed in myself and achieved something I once thought was impossible.  

This journey has taught me that running is more than just a physical challenge—it’s a mental battle, a fight to overcome self-doubt and push through pain. I’ve learned to embrace the process, to celebrate progress, no matter how small, and to draw strength from my inner resilience.  

I still have a long way to go, with more hard work and dedication ahead. But now, I run with a purpose, with strength and compassion, knowing that I carry my father’s courage in every step.