Baltimore Station’s Member of the Month: Sarah

Sarah C. has been running with Baltimore Station since October and took vharge as Team Leader last month.  When running, Sarah likes to daydream, but not on the football field.  This big player at this year’s Superbowl flag football game says, “For all the guys that leave me in the dust out on the streets, on the field I had the chance to rough ‘em up a little.”  She enjoys long runs in the harbor and around the city, which has been great training for the Nikia Half-Marathon.

Sarah hasn’t always loved running.  “I begrudgingly joined the track team in high school to stay in shape during soccer off-season.  Because running intimidated me so much though, I opted to throw discus instead of run and became our team’s leading discus scorer. Thankfully, I eventually overcame my fear of running… but I can still throw a discus darn well.”  Her advice for a new running is to hang in until the day where running switches from feeling like work to fun.  She’s thankful she did!

Former BSTAT Team Leader “Fast” Dan Miranda says, “When I had decided to step down as BSTAT’s team leader, I was only going to pass the torch to someone I knew I could trust. The ideal candidate would have been someone who would come to mind immediately.  It was quite fortuitous that Sarah joined our team when she did! Having only been a nonrez for just a couple of months, I knew right away she was the perfect successor.  She quickly became a 3-morning a week runner, possessing a great infectious enthusiasm, and would run with any rez member who needed a running partner that day.  I was overjoyed when she so graciously accepted the role despite her still relatively new status.  I know BSTAT is in good hands for the future!”

Christopher’s Place Members of the Month: Charles and Caroline

Charles D. has accumulated over 50 miles in the last two months as part of the team.  His first race was the Valentine’s Day 5K last month, and he hasn’t yet make plans for any upcoming races.  His biggest challenge is “not letting the young folks out do him.”  His goal is to be able to run 5 miles and “keeping strong.”

Says his Team Leader Jordyn Manucci: “Charles is one of the most honest, talkative, and happiest people I’ve met. He may have a bad knee, but he’s out every morning with a smile and a story about his wonderful family.”

Caroline S. encourages other runners to “keep going, even if it seems too hard at first. You will be amazed by how much you can do that you initially thought would be impossible. And run with others!”  She’s happy with her time at the Shamrock 5K last month (many thanks to the downhill course!), and her next race is the Nikia Half-Marathon and Relay with the Race Committee team.  Maybe afterwards she’ll enjoy her favorite post-race food: Chipotle!

“The thing you notice first about Caroline is her smile. That’s how she greets everyone. Her enthusiasm has carried over to her awesome job as our team’s race coordinator,” says Caroline’s Team Leader Jordyn Manucci.

Helping Up Mission Members of the Month: David and Amy

David F. has run over 125 miles since joining the team last September.  His biggest challenge is getting up in the morning, but once he starts running, he says, “I try to clear my head when I run.  I enjoy feeling free when I am running.”  David looks forward to running on a Nikia Relay Team and starting college.

From Helping Up Mission Team Leader Rob Carfagno: ”David (Farmer) is fun to be around and brings a positive vibe to our team.  Farmer is quiet at first, but once he opens up he’ll definitely have you laughing.  He’s a steady presence on the team and always in a good mood and having a good time.  I had the pleasure of running the Tuerk House 5k with Farmer and was proud to see how well he did.  Farmer’s a great guy and a great teammate and friend!”

Amy S. started running with Helping Up in May 2011.  She came out for a Saturday long run and has become hooked.  “No matter what I have going on that weekend I find myself accomodating this run into my schedule.”  When she’s out running, she thinks about breakfast, like blueberry waffles.  Her next race is the Nikia Half.

Rob Carfagno, Amy’s Team Leader, says, “Amy (aka A4 & aka Spatula) is not only one of my favorite teammates, but one of my favorite people!  Spatula has an amazing energy about her and she is always smiling and having a great time.  She’s loved by all of our teammates and she does so much to help our team.  She does a great job of balancing having fun and doing great things for others.  The sky’s the limit for Amy and she can accomplish anything she wants in life.  We are certainly lucky to have her on the team and I am lucky to call her a friend!”

MCVET Members of the Month: Chris and John

Chris M. has been a member of the MCVET team since December and has accumulated 100 miles.  His favorite moment with the team was the “Valentine’s run in the harbor. It was my first time seeing the other teams in Baltimore – cool to see how many of us there are when we all come together like that.”  He’s trying to keep a balance and make sure that he doesn’t bite off more than he can chew.  “It’s been an adjustment to remember I can’t do some of the things I could do when I was younger.”  This more relaxed outlook has led him to enjoy the scenery and conversations on his runs.

MCVET Team Leader Peter says, “Chris has been an awesome addition to the team in 2012.  He might be a former marine, but he brings a gentle attitude, soft-spoken demeanor and sense of humor to the circle each morning, which his teammates all really appreciate. He hadn’t even been for than 2 months when his teammates nominated and voted him to be team captain.  He’s always quick to listen to what others have to say and his running’s steadily improved over the course of the past few months. An avid fan of the outdoors< Chris seems to love to reminisce about his time in Montana which is why I’m particularly excited to join him for his first race with BoMF later this month at the Nikia Relay just a mile or so down the road from where the buffalo roam (Gunpowder Bison Farm)!”

John W. ran his first run with MCVET in 2009.  He enjoys running and calls it his pure downtime when he doesn’t have to think about anything.  His favorite moment was, “That moment (a few months after joining) when you know enough res and non-res members so when you walk into the circle you feel truly comfortable. That’s the moment when Back on My Feet becomes much more than a running group.”  John will be out running the Nikia Half-Marathon, and will be circling up with plenty of familiar faces!

Peter says, “John’s been running with MCVET since almost day 1 and his dedication to the team and Back on My Feet Baltimore shines through in everything he does.  He always looking out for the well being of his teammates, both res and non-res alike, and is happy to lend an ear and offer advice to anyone who needs it. His efforts haven’t been limited to his current teammates though as he’s always doing what he can to keep growing our morning circle. He even recruited his wife Shannon, to come out and join us and she’s since become a fellow MCVET superstar, and we’re lucky to call them both our teammates.  John’s dedication to BoMF was even recently recognized when he was invited to join the Baltimore advisory board! We all know his guidance will be an asset not just to our team now, but BoMF as a whole!”

Running Shoe Size: 11

Home Town: Indianapolis

Fave Athlete: Calvin Turner

Fave Music Genre:  Jazz

In what branch did you serve? Army

Why BoMF?  “Well I planned to start back to running. To me it was like God was putting the opportunity here. It just fell into place.”

Most memorable BoMF memory? “I’d have to say it was the first time Steve and I ran. He just brought a lot out of me.”

What difference has BoMF made in your life?  “Well it’s made me feel more comfortable being around people. I’m really not a crowd person.”

What races have you run with BoMF? “The Indianapolis Monumental 5k, Drumstick Dash, Santa Hustle, Masquerace, and the Superbowl Legacy Loop.”

What’s most challenging aspect of your life right now and how are you meeting that challenge? “I’d have to say being patient. When I feel the need I just get on my bicycle and ride, or I might take a walk or go running. This calms me down. It keeps me in shape and my head clear.”

How did you get the nickname Fr. Time? “I have no idea.”

For new members, what would you like to share?  “Definitely come out for the team because it’s very good. It’s even good for your soul and makes you feel good.”

What does Ed like to in his spare time? Practice yoga, read, ride my bike, and walk.  “My favorite book is by James Allen and entitled, As a Man Thinketh.  My favorite food is the potato and especially French Fries. I make my own.”

Ed’s BHAGs (Big Hairy Audacious Goals)  Go to school to study Asian philosophy and become a yoga instructor.

 We give a runner’s salute to Ed for his unique aura, essence, and the amazing “mojo” he brings to the team.  He’s a dedicated teammate who is committed to improving his well-being through exercise.

“To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world.”

The following teammates are not only helping themselves but also helping others learn about the power of running. Let’s congratulate them with a few high fives!

Natalie Roffino, Non-Residential Member, Dallas LIFE “I can’t imagine my life without Back on My Feet. The fact that I get to wake up in the wee hours of the morning and be welcomed with smiles and hugs warms my heart. Seeing the joy of the Residential Members as they progress in the program and see the benefits of health, fitness and a new found positive self esteem is priceless. Not only does Back on My Feet change the Residential Members for the better it changes the Non-Residential Members too, and for that I am ever grateful.

Rickie M., Residential Member, Dallas LIFE Rickie, a Dallas LIFE Residential Member, runs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday maintaining 93% attendance. Rickie also makes it a point to tell others in the shelter how important it is to stay positive. He is an inspiration to those that have weathered a tough past, having been held at gunpoint and almost shot, Rickie looks forward to a more positive environment and independence.

Will Maddox, Non-Residential Member, Salvation Army “Back on My Feet combines several of my passions. Loving our neighbor as ourselves, building relationships, and running. It is an amazing way to serve the community and help those in need with their physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. Just as Jesus walked through life with those around him, Back on My Feet gives me a chance to “run” through life with others and help them get their lives back where they want them to be.”

Rudie W., Residential Member, Salvation Army Rudie, a Salvation Army Residential Member, made a living by working as a plumber (journeyman) and freely admits that his struggle with addiction caused him to lose his job and ultimately arrive at the Salvation Army shelter. Truly working to try and better himself, Rudy never thought at this time in his life he would be so active.

Megan Wright, Non-Residential Member, The Bridge. “I joined Back on My Feet because I wanted to run, and it sounded like a nice thing to do. I quickly realized that it’s so much more than that. I’ve stayed with it because of my teammates. I love being a part of Team Bridge Elite! The amazing part of Back on My Feet is whether you’re a Residential Member or a Non-Residential Member – we ALL encourage and support each other. I get just as much back from my teammates as I hope I give.”

Selina K., Residential Member, The Bridge Selina, a Residential Member with Team Bridge, had this to say about her experience with the Back on My Feet team, “You’re going to love it. They show you REAL love there. None of this fake love, real love.”

Last month gave us an extra {leap} day to celebrate, and run on! Our runners continue to trudge through a pseudo-winter here in the District, making it out of the month snow-free and, as always, mileage-high. Our current spotlight shines on these rock-star Members:

Blair Res: Javon G. has been such a great teammate, a great leader and  always has a great attitude. We’re so proud of him for running his first 5k, and he deserves a lot of credit for showing up every morning after all his late nights at work!

Blair non-res: Barb P. No matter where in the world Barb travels, we can always count on her to come back to Blair House. She’s been such a great support for everyone on the team, and she proudly represents Blair house, BOMF, and what it stands for wherever she goes.

——

CSS res: Hermon B.  ran his first 5K in February, quickly accomplishing and exceeding his initial goals on the team. He had a great attitude, always gives 100%, and has been a great addition to the team.

CSS non-res: Silas B. , CSS team coach, who is always supportive and patient. His attendance is excellent, and he’s been a great motivator!

—–

LaCasa res: Austin has shown tremendous dedication to the team, and it shows through his attendance as well as the steps he has made outside of morning runs.  He recently had a successful first race at the Love The Run You’re With 5k, and he also got a job.

LaCasa non-res: Jeane, showing continued support & dedication, and keeping the LaCasa team smiling!

Christopher’s Place’s Members of the Month: Sheldon and Ben

Sheldon N. joined Christopher’s Place in December 2011 and has accumulated 48.6 miles. After running for about two months, he signed up for the Valentine’s Day 5K.  Sheldon says “Hills!” are the most challenging part of running, but he still bested them all at the 5K race. He says, “I was really happy to finish my first race.” He certainly follows him own advice for a new runner to “be persistent.” Through the program, Sheldon looks to start and graduate from the culinary program at the Maryland Food Bank. Although he knows how to roll sushi, his favorite post-race meal would include a salty-sweet combo of oranges and pretzels and a carb-reload with bagels.

Sheldon’s team leader, Jordyn Manucci, says, ”Sheldon is hilarious!  When you run with him, it’s like a comedy club most of the time.  The miles go by so fast with him as he just keeps you engaged the whole way.  It’s been great seeing him go from running one to two to three miles on a consistent basis.”

Ben H. joined Christopher’s Place as a non-residential member.  While an awesome runner, Ben has expanded his horizons and gained some experience with the CP Band at the Valentine’s Day 5K.  His favorite memory with Back on My Feet was while cheering for people running on the National Mall at SnOlympics.  His advice for a new runner would be “When you need to run slow, run slow. When you need to run fast, run fast.” He’s training for his first marathon, the D.C. National Rock-and-Roll Marathon, after which he’ll enjoy his favorite Cool Mint Clif Bar and a banana washed down by chocolate milk.

Jordyn Manucci says, “Ben has been a great member of the team since he started.  He brings this incredible energy to the circles.  He’s also great in that you know he is training for a much longer race than what many others are currently training for, but is more than willing to just walk a mile or do some easy work to get to know people.”

Helping Up’s Members of the Month: Tony and Nathan

Tony B. started running with Helping Up last November and has already run 71.5 miles. An experienced 5K runer, Tony ran his first 5 miler, which was his favorite memory with Back on My Feet. He says it’s challenging “to get my feet and my mind to work together.” To continue moving forward, Tony says, “I want to get my license back and the get my CDL license.” He’s looking forward to running with some teammates for the Nikia Relay in March.

Tony’s Team Organizer, Meredith Eppley says, “”Tony (Blue) has been a wonderful addition to THUMB!  Not only does he bring smiles to people’s faces, his character beams determination and perseverance, which permeates to other members.  Even though he has been nursing an old ankle injury it hasn’t deterred him from coming out and bringing all that he has to the table.  It was awesome to run with him for his first road race – the Celtic Solstice, which wasn’t a 5K, but a 5 miler!  He ran it strong and made a sprint into the finish with a huge smile on his face.  His next race is the Nikia Relay.  Don’t let his timid personality fool you at first, he can crack jokes left and right and he also has some suave dance moves! Blue’s a wonderful teammate and friend.”

Nathan B. joined Helping Up as a non-residential member last month and remembers “THUMB’s epic comeback tiein the Super Bowl flag football game.” When he’s out running, he’s thinking about breakfast. “I eat a lot for a skinny guy.” But when he’s racing, he’s thinking about how to be super spirited.  His next race with Back on My Feet will be the Nikia Half-Marathon and Relay. “Farmer, Greg and I will be out in full costume… be on the lookout!”

Rob Carfagno, Team Leader of Helping Up, says, “Nathan has been a great addition to our team!  He is so enthusiastic and friendly and has already taken part in many team events in the short time he’s be on the team.  You can tell that he genuinely enjoys being a part of the team and he’s always smiling.  I’m excited to see the great things that the future holds for Nathan and our team!”

MCVET’s Members of the Month: Arnold and Melissa

Arnold S.‘s Team Leader, Peter, says, “Arnold was one our original residential members and although he’s been officially an alum for almost a year now, his recent accomplishments deserve special recognition.  After enrolling in a radiography program through Essex College during our first year running together, he recently graduated last month and received his Associate’s Degree! The manner with which he went about achieving this goal was most praiseworthy as well, choosing at one point to delay graduation in order to take on two jobs in order to fufill all his obligations. Over the years, our team has seen him cross the finish lines of 3 marathons (Baltimore, Delaware and Marine Corps), been greeted by him at the Aquarium where he still works, watched him testify in the Senate, and now receive his college degree. Through it all, he’s been a steadfast and dedicated friend to all of us and we look forward to seeing where life continues to take him.”

Melissa S. has been running with MCVET since November.  Having recently moved to Baltimore in July 2011, she says that running gives her a chance to learn the city.  She likes to be aware of who is running with her and chat with them. ”But the moment that sticks out most in my mind was MCVET’s run to see the lights on 34th Street. Since it was my first Christmas in Baltimore, it was exciting to see a Baltimore holiday tradition. And pairing it with a run and hot chocolate and cookies, couldn’t have made it any better. Having everyone come together to  see the lights was a great moment.” While she’s only planning to cheer at the Nikia Half and Relay, her next race is a 10 miler in May and maybe the Baltimore 10 Miler in June if she stays injury-free. Her biggest challenge is staying healthy. ”I’ve had a few stress fractures and bruised bones that have sidelined me from running in the past. But by keeping my mileage low and running every other day, I’ve been stress-fracture free for a year. ”

Peter says, “A recent transplant from BoMF’s hometown of Philly, Melissa has wasted no time in becoming a fixture of Team MCVET.  Her joyful and positive attitude are a welcome addition to the circle and she’s quick to help out the team as whole or any of its individual members, whether it’s baking cookies for everyone to enjoy over the holidays or devotedly playing the role of navigator and making sure her teammates don’t get lost during our more circuitous morning runs.  Her fiancee, Jeremy has even become a welcome addition to team social events and outings joining us for runs through Hampden to enjoy the “Miracle on 34th” or for weekends ice skating in Patterson Park.  We’re lucky she chose to join us at MCVET and are delighted to help introduce her to Baltimore.”

Wow! It’s been one whole year since we launched the Back on My Feet program in Dallas and we couldn’t have done it without some incredible people along the way! This month, let’s celebrate love, by hugging and high fiving our friends that have taken the next step to self-sufficiency or helped a friend along the way.

Megan Sanders, Non-Residential Member, Dallas LIFE “Back on My Feet is a message of hope, for everyone involved, and has given me a sense of purpose. I am excited every day to spend time with my Dallas LIFE family, sharing stories and being a part of each others’ lives. The lack of judgment and welcoming environment is what drew me in; hugs, prayers, and friendships are what keep me coming back. I am so happy to be able to continue celebrating every milestone that each member makes along the way.”

Sheila W., Residential Member, Dallas LIFE Sheila, a victim of abuse, came to Dallas LIFE in December 2011 and began running with Back on My Feet in January 2012. Sheila inspired others with her performance at the Hot Chocolate 15K and is training for the Rock n Roll Half Marathon in March 2012.

Elizabeth Bauman, Non-Residential Member, Salvation Army “I like Back on my Feet because it gives me the opportunity to share my love of running with others who might not have ever enjoyed the sport before. Not only do I get to run with them, but I get to share my life and learn about their lives as well. All this and the end result encourages Residential Members and myself to become better runners as well as better people.”

Bobby R., Residential Member, Salvation Army Bobby, a U.S. veteran, joined Back on My Feet in June 2011. Bobby has recently moved out of the Salvation Army shelter and continues to run with the team on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. What a teammate!

Catherine O’Neill, Non-Residential Member, The Bridge. “I’ve been a member of Team Bridge for about 6 months.  I love the camaraderie and watching new runners find strength through running!  And most of all I love the fun.  When training for a race, it’s easy to get wrapped up in training plans, mileage, and target pace, but when I run with Back on My Feet, it’s about people, not numbers.  Thanks Team Bridge for making my morning runs full of smiles, support, and fun!”

Terry J., Residential Member, The Bridge Terry joined the Back on My Feet team at The Bridge in December 2011. He completed his first 5K at the Hotcake Hustle in Addison, Texas. Terry recently accepted a position with the Omni Convention Center. Go Terry!

Baltimore Station’s Members of the Month:  Daniel and Ben

Daniel  B. joined BSTAT in November and has already accumulated 90 miles. He loves being part of the team and running in the rain. He notes that the biggest challenge he faces running is building up his endurance and stamina. Through the program, Daniel is working toward his overarching goal of being a responsible and positive person. His advice for a new runner is to “take your time, take it easy, and keep it moving forward.” His first race with Back on My Feet will be Nikia’s Nippy Nor’easter Half Marathon – his first half! His favorite post-race meal varies, but after Nikia, he’s looking forward to digging into steak and potatoes.

Says Daniel’s team leader, Sarah C.:  “When Daniel isn’t in the morning circle, I instantly notice. He brings not just his exuberant greetings and his camouflage print pants to BSTAT, but a spirit and determination from which every person on the team draws energy. A great way to describe Daniel’s outlook comes from a few words he said to me recently on a particularly tough run. ‘Arghh I just hate hills!’ I complained. He replied wisely, “But keep going…they make you stronger.” Daniel quietly embraces every hill, mile, and race as a new challenge, and as he works to succeed, he inspires everyone around him.”

Ben F. joined BSTAT as a non-residential member in August, and his favorite moment so far was dressing up to run on Halloween morning. While running, Ben says, “Sometimes I think about song lyrics, sometimes I solve the problems of the day I am facing, sometimes I engage in prayer.” Ben’s last race was the Catonsville High School YMCA 5k on Thanksgiving, and he has a busy race schedule ahead of him: the D.C. Marathon in March, the Pittsburgh Marathon in May, the Wheeling WV Half Marathon on Memorial Day weekend, a 4^th of July race, the Baltimore Marathon, the Marine Corps Marathon, and hopefully a couple triathlons. Whew! In the midst of that race schedule, Ben is excited to do a good job in his new role of Social Coordinator for BSTAT.

His favorite workout is running the BWI airport loop, and his advice for a new runner is: “You never know the places running will take you. You don’t have to be fast to enjoy it. Embrace your inner child and run!” And his running mantra is: “No matter how many miles you do, you are miles ahead of those that never get off the couch.”

Says Sarah C.: “Being a new member of a team is never easy, and when that team only meets in the dark, sleepy, pre-dawn hours, it makes it even harder to become familiar with new faces. Ben, who says he has trouble with names, does an incredible job of remembering and welcoming new people to the team. Whether it be by recalling someone’s college major, or pro football team preference, or first half marathon story, he makes up for the fact we only see each other in the dark, and pays attention to a thing far more important than someone’s face: he listens to each team member’s story.  Ben is an enthusiastic, energetic force, day in and day out, and our team is lucky to have him!”

Christopher’s Place’s Members of the Month:  Robert and Hillary

Robert and Hillary

Robert C. joined Team Christopher’s Place in November and has already accumulated more than 45 miles. His best moment so far was watching the 5 mile race. “Even though I couldn’t participate, getting to watch and be a cheerleader was great.” Robert is focused on his main goal for the next three months – finding employment. As he works toward that, he is enjoying what running brings to his life. He notes that his biggest running challenge is hills, but while running he tries to relax. “If I have a scripture, I think about that, otherwise I just focus on relaxing and breathing.” His advice for a new runner is, “Go for it!” Robert is working toward the Valentine’s Day 5k.

Robert’s team leader says, “Robert has been a wonderful addition to our team. His enthusiasm, spirit and kindness are infectious and he makes sure to support everyone. He has been recovering from an injury, but always shows up for his teammates even when he can’t run himself.”

Hillary G. joined CP as a non-residential member in November. She says her best moment was: “Before Snowlympics started with the D.C. teams, a group of us from Baltimore cheered on runners as they passed by us on the National Mall, complete with a tambourine and cow bell.  It was completely spontaneous, but so much fun!” When asked what she thinks about while running, Hillary says, “Running is a time when I clear my head.  If I am worried or anxious about anything, getting out with the team or on my own helps me put things into perspective.” Her advice for a brand new runner? “Just take it one mile at a time – that’s the only way.”

Hillary’s last race was the Frozen Finger 5-miler. She says, “I’m not quite sure what my time was, but it was my first non-road race, which kept things interesting for sure.” Her next race with Back on My Feet is the Valentine’s Day 5k. About Back on My Feet, Hillary says: “This experience has been incredibly life-giving.  It doesn’t matter how fast or slow you are, it’s just amazing to see what can happen when team members come together in such a unique way to support each other.”

Says her team leader: “Hillary has been an incredible addition to our team since she started. She is always smiling and takes the time to get to know everyone on our team. From the very beginning, she has shown up to all our events and helps out with driving.”

MCVET’s Members of the Month:  Link and Shannon

Link and Bert (aka Joe Flacco)

Walter “Link” L. joined Team MCVET in December; he is off to a great start and is getting a lot out of being part of the team. Link says he used to train as a boxer: “It was very independent and I never considered myself very good with people so this camaraderie is a new experience for me and I am really enjoying it.”

Link’s goal for the next three months is to get stronger and start setting his sights on completing a marathon. When he runs, Link says he just “takes in the scenery and the companionship of the people I’m running with. I used to train with music all the time so it’s neat plugging into all the other sounds instead.”

Link’s next race and first race with the team is the Valentine’s Day 5k. Says Peter, Team MCVET team leader:  “Link surprised all of us when after completing his first mile with the team, he jumped in with the pack that was going out to get in a few extra miles. We learned later that day, that as a former boxer, Link never backs down from a challenge. He also never ceases to make runs that much more enjoyable, sharing his good humored spirit and outlook with his teammates as they pound the pavement together. Since his first day, he’s been racking up plenty of miles and recently set his sights on a 26.2 round heavyweight bout with the best hills our city can throw at him at next fall’s Baltimore Running Festival. We’re looking forward to getting to run alongside him as he prepares for this race and any other challenges that come up along the way.”

Shannon

Shannon W. joined Team MCVET as a non-residential member in March 2011. She jokes about her size 11 feet, “Feel free to call me “Big Foot” from now on – or as my high school swim team members dubbed me, “Flipper.”

Shannon says her best moment with Back on My Feet to date was completing her first race ever at the MCVET 10k in May with other first time resident racers and then setting a goal to complete her first half marathon this October. “I never would have done either without the encouragement of our wonderful team. When running the half marathon, I heard Greg’s voice telling me to keep my head down and pass people on the hills. It worked!”

Next up for Shannon: volunteering at the Nikia Half Marathon. Her goal for the next three months is to stay well and hopefully get back to running.

Says Peter, team leader: “For months, John told us about how he hoped to lure his wife out to join us one morning for a run, and we are so grateful that he succeeded! Since coming out for her first morning with the team, Shannon has become one of our most dedicated and supportive non-residential members.  For almost a year now, it’s been a real pleasure for every one of our members to get to know her and spend the mornings with Shannon.  She always has the best interest of the team and its members in mind and is eager to lend a hand to whoever needs it. She’s been known to push the pace at the front of the pack some mornings, but also to walk and listen with anyone as well. She welcomes our newest residential and non-residential members alike and has even graced us with her delicious baked (healthy!) treats for members’ birthdays.  We can’t say enough about how much we appreciate having Shannon as part of Team MCVET!”

Team Helping Up Mission’s Members of the Month:  Bryant and Rachel

Bryant

Bryant J. joined Back on My Feet as a residential member in September, and though he says his biggest challenge is waking up early and getting out there to get started, he has already run more than 100 miles! His best moment so far was participating in the Baltimore Running Festival, and his goal for the next three months is to complete his first half marathon. His next race is the Valentine’s Day 5k.

When asked what he thinks about while running, Bryant says, “There are a of things that go through my mind, but mostly I think about getting things back on track in my life and doing well.”

Says Rob Carfagno, team leader: “Bryant has such a great attitude and has done a lot to jump in and make new friends on the team. He’s always smiling and goes out of his way to come up to me and say hello each morning when he reaches the circle. He’s increased his mileage recently and is working toward his first half marathon. He’s enthusiastic about his running and it seems like everything he has going on…he’s definitely great to be around. I’m excited to see all of the great things Bryant will accomplish in the coming months, both in running and in life!”

Rachel and Honey Dip

Rachel S. joined Team THUMB as a non-residential member in July 2011. Her best moment so far?  “Running AND finishing the 2011 Baltimore Half Marathon with Steve, Bonnie, Julie and Erica, also known as Steven’s Crew. We ran the whole race together and really stuck by each other. I remember I was struggling at the beginning, but then there was Steven, running backwards with encouraging words getting me up the hills. We ran into the finish line holding hands. I was so proud of my teammate, it’s quite an accomplishment to complete a half marathon and we did it.” Now, Rachel is gearing up for the Nikia Half Marathon at the end of March.

Rachel often brings her sweet dog, Honey Dip, to the morning runs, much to the delight of her teammates. Rachel says, “Some of the things I think about when running are:  Why won’t Honey Dip (HD) slow down? 2. Please please please don’t come across a chicken bone, HD will eat anything not nailed down (and some stuff that is nailed down), chicken bones are not good for dogs. 3. If I wasn’t running with Back on My Feet, I’d definitely have stopped to walk by now. 4. How many blocks until the end of the run? Some of the things I assume Honey Dip is thinking about when running are: 1. Hope we run by chicken bones. 2. Mom, can you run faster? 3. Can’t wait to finish so I can see my friends, they love me and pet me. 4. WOOF!

Says team leader, Rob Carfagno: “Our team is lucky to have Rachel (and Honey Dip!) as our teammate!  Rachel is always so enthusiastic and you will often hear her say how important Back on My Feet is to her. She really loves to be part of the team and she goes out of her way to make those around her feel comfortable. Rachel and Honey Dip bring smiles to lots of our teammates early in the morning. Rachel helps to make a real difference to those around her and it is clear just how much the team means to her!”

Jeffrey and Tom (sporting a dead squirrel) get ready to volunteer for Hearts and Hands of Indiana, a not-for-profit that rehabs houses in the Haughville area near downtown Indianapolis.

Running Shoe Size: 9

Home Town/Family: Brooklyn, Indiana, two daughters

Fave Athlete: Peyton Manning

Fave Music:  Classic Rock

In what branch of the military did you serve? Navy

Most memorable BoMF memory? I’d have to say the Drumstick Dash on Thanksgiving morning. It was my first run with BoMF and I opted to do the longer, four mile route.  Although I had my bus pass just in case I had to find my way back to Warman, there was Brian waiting for me at the finish line.

Why did you come out for the BoMF team?  Honestly?  I want to work.  I’d like to find a job.

What races have you run in with BoMF? Which one was your fave? I’ve done the Drumstick Dash, the Santa Hustle and the New Year’s 5K Masquerace and I’d have to say the Santa Hustle was my favorite. Everyone was so upbeat. Well heck, it was Christmas!

What do you like to do in your spare time? I like to read a lot, especially mysteries. Back in the day I had a rose garden.  I can fix anything in a house (or on it, the roof, etc.) I’m really good with tools, working with my hands and figuring out how to fix things.

Jeffrey’s BHAGs (Big Hairy Audacious Goals): (These are things you can’t do on your own, but need God’s help.)

I’d like to get a job and someday own another house.

We give a runner’s salute to Jeffrey for his
consistent attendance and humoring us with
his witty “Jeffreyisms”. You know how
to give us a good chuckle when
we need it.

Jeffrey crosses the finish line in the 5K MasqueRACE the morning of New Years' Eve.

Walking up to Clean and Sober Streets (CSS) at 5:43am, I hug everyone in greeting and we all huddle close to try and fend off the cold.  Across the street though, one of our teammates is already warmed-up and eager for the run to begin.  Rodan Hollins is shadowboxing, tall and intent on crushing his imaginary foe.

As we cross the street to join him, he doesn’t stop immediately, but continues his routine until a teammate gently tells him it’s time to circle up.  “Alright, where am I going?”  He’ll ask the nearest neighbor who will help guide him into the group.  After warm-ups, it’s time to hit the road and Rodan keeps close to his guide, Silas Brown.  Rodan relies on Silas to lead him through the dark streets of Washington, DC without hitting poles or getting hit by cars because in addition to his passion for staying fit, Rodan is visually impaired.

“I have glaucoma.  I thought the world would close me out,” he tells me during the interview for DC’s Chapter Member of the Month.  “All my running mates encourage me.”  But there’s something more encouraging about witnessing the teamwork, the partnership, which has been created between these two men.  To passersby, they may appear like any running duo, but for Rodan, being able to run represents something greater than just staying fit.  “I treasure each morning,” he says, “it’s a spiritual gift.”

Rodan is grateful for the gift running gives him each day because it has helped him maintain his recovery from drugs.  “Working out was essential to my recovery and Back on My Feet helped me realize my addiction.”  Rodan’s addiction had broken up his family and when he came to CSS he needed the tools to repair the damage.  When he joined Back on My Feet he was just beginning to rediscover himself and the team gave him that opportunity by opening the door.

“Running is a better high than drugs,” he says with delight.  “Running helps me reach goals and being a part of a team brings me joy.  My team is a family; they’ve really opened their hearts to me.”

Rodan is determined to stay on the path he’s started traveling down, as he continually states how much running has helped him move forward.  When I ask him about his future, he exhales and his face brightens: “My future? God, my future looks wide open!”

We look forward to chasing that future with you, Rodan.  Keep running!