June 16th was the 2021 Disney Princess Half Marathon registration day. I did not register. I decided that I I would fundraise my entry again like I did for the 2018 race and retell my running story for those that may not know it.
The year 2017 started out with a life changing event for me and I had Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, “VSG” for short. If you are not familiar with this procedure, it’s where a surgeon removes a large portion of my stomach to limit the amount of food I can eat by making me feel full after small amounts. You are probably wondering “Sarah, why did you have this surgery”.
I feel like my weight always held me back or made me feel self conscious. I never really felt confident about the way I looked on the outside. I remember once when I was younger around 12 years old, my step-mom’s mom asked me, “Is your mom heavy? How did you get so big.” I believe that is when I realized I was different from everyone else. Growing up, there would always be comments about my size but I still felt loved that I didn’t worry about it.
As I got older, I realized how much this weight was holding me back. I wanted to be active, wear smaller clothes, and ultimately, I didn’t want to get diagnosed with a major health issue. I took preventative measures and decided that bariatric surgery is for me.
While recovering from surgery, I was reflecting on the journey to the surgery and what is to come. I have always enjoyed walking and jogging with a good playlist so why not put my two favorite things together: running and Disney. That is how I decided to run in the 2018 Disney Princess Half Marathon.
When I crossed the finish line in 2018 after 13.1 miles I couldn’t hold in the tears. Something that seemed impossible was done! I knew from that moment on that I would be running the Disney Princess Half Marathon every year and maintaining my active lifestyle!
This year I decided to run for Dragon Master Foundation. They are a non-profit organization that is data focused in finding a cure for cancer through collaboration and innovation. I am super proud to be part of this this charitable running team and their mission and goals.
I want to thank you for taking the time to read about my personal story and supporting me. Any contribution would mean so much to me and truly make a difference for Dragon Master Foundation.
In best health, Sarah ❤️