Every year during the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon weekend, we hear some incredible stories from participants who have overcome daunting challenges to be there. Whether it’s a personal loss or injury or unexpected illness, their stories of overcoming and perseverance deeply inspire us. The running community is special – we individually train but when we race, we all come together. Today we’re excited to share the story of Shamrock participant, Jodi Osborne, who has an amazing story to share. We hope you are inspired in running and life through her story of perseverance and gratitude through huge life challenges.

Jodi’s Story

I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, in the prime of my life. Everything was going great, so I thought.
I was living the dream. I was married, working as a nurse, had beautiful children and one on the way. I was experiencing an array of symptoms that are relatively vague and dismissed by most physicians. One evening at work, I began having severe flank pain. I was pregnant and scared. My husband took me to the hospital, and I was admitted on the same floor from which I just ended my shift. It was found that I was in acute renal failure. The doctor said I would probably be on dialysis within a year, and possibly need a kidney transplant in the future.  After the hospital stay, months on bedrest and medication, I delivered a healthy baby boy.

After the delivery, my symptoms never went away, and I was referred to a rheumatologist. He reviewed all my lab results, did a thorough examination and it was discovered that I had systemic lupus. (SLE is an autoimmune immune disease in which the body attacks healthy tissues, causing damage to multiple body organs, joints, etc. )
My rheumatologist Dr. Valenzuela, has found a great combination of medication‘s that have kept me in remission, and miraculously, my kidney functions have significantly  improved!!!
Although there is no cure for SLE, there are medication‘s to help treat symptoms and help prevent flareups. Thus improving quality of life. I live with the disease not for the disease.
I have no doubt that with prayer, and believing in yourself, you can overcome any obstacle or adversity. This is the first step to healing. Still after many years, I have remained in remission. I attribute this to regular follow- ups with my doctor, eating healthier, exercise, taking my medication as prescribed, faith, and a supportive family. I truly have been blessed. I cherish each and every day, for nothing is promised.
So far, I have beat the odds.

My Shamrock experience

My Shamrock experience is a magical event that is sparked with excitement and thrills!! It is filled with a deep connection with others that fosters community, and its rich incredible adventures keep me coming back each and every year. There’s nothing like the amazing crowd of spectators cheering and encouraging you to continue on. The motivation is endless!!!  The kind words, warm smiles and high-fives of a fellow runners, help me to push myself through the exhaustion and pain to the finish line. That’s where the real magic begins. The feeling of camaraderie, festive celebrations, and live music shared by all. People from everywhere and every walk of life come together and share their love of running. You forget about sickness, bills and bad things that are happening around the world. Just for today, we have complete joy and happiness. I love that!!!

How running has helped me

Running has helped me overcome many obstacles and circumstances through the opportunity to focus on helping others. I started my running journey one step at a time using the App Charity Miles. Each run, or walk, donates money for a cause of your choice. This was so encouraging to me that one activity  I could do , could have a positive impact on others. It has also helped me build confidence, and mental strength. Running has increased my bone density, flexibility and stamina. It helps tie together all the physical activities that I enjoy, dance, yoga and golf. Running gave me the courage to start, the endless dedication to continue, and the endurance to make it through and finish in difficult times.
Running makes makes me feel powerful!! It gives me the freedom to enjoy outdoors at my own pace, even if it is at a  snails pace.

What advice/ encouragement would I give to others also going through a hard time

My advice for anyone going through a difficult situation would be to focus on what you can do, not on what you can’t. Self love and compassion is key!! Stay positive and have faith that something better is coming your way. Everyone has a story, every life a purpose. No matter what you’re going through, whether it’s health issues, a family crisis or financial challenges, we can all learn from each other, share kindness and compassion. You can get through it. Accept love and support. It doesn’t cost anything and it’s free from judgement. Never forget that you’re not alone. You are worthy and appreciated. You never know what someone’s going through. Just a simple smile can brighten the darkness in someone’s day.
I have a small Christmas tree up all year long to remind me that each day is a gift, that’s why it’s called “the present”.