Why I Walk the Bellin Run: Jamie Noriega Alqui, Green Bay

May 22, 2013

This year is my first year walking in the Bellin Run and I am so excited!

About 15 years ago I began to experience health issues and ended up having surgeries that limited what I could do. I even had to have my husband regularly help me up from my chair and eventually I had to stop working. Being only in my 30s, at times my health has made me feel as though I am already in my 90s.

Then, last year in September, my biological dad passed away from cancer. Five months later, my stepdad, the man who helped raise me for 30 years, also passed away from cancer.

So I started thinking, “I am sick of being sick” and want to do something for myself and in memory of my dads.

I am now riding my bike and taking regular walks. I have lost 15 lbs. and am on my way to a healthier life. I’m hoping my dads are watching over me and my family as we prepare to walk the Bellin Run in June, the month of Father’s Day.

I just want to help other families to make healthy changes in their lives and offer them a message of hope.

Share Your Story
Send us a few paragraphs on why you’re participating in the Bellin Run and we’ll use your stories in a variety of ways, including posting them on our website’s blog at http://www.bellinrun.com

E-mail your reasons for running (or walking) to Femi Cole at [email protected]. Put “Why I run/walk the Bellin Run” in the subject line. We’ll be watching for your stories.