From Healing to the Finish Line: How Running Changed My Life

By: Courtney Gruzs, Charm City Run Race Team Member

Running didn’t start as a passion for me. It started as a lifeline.

After losing my grandmother, I found myself in a really dark place. I wasn’t taking care of myself physically or emotionally, and I wasn’t sure how to get out of it. Then one day, almost on impulse, I posted a Facebook status asking friends and family for tips on how to train for a 5K. 

Honestly? I’m not even sure why I asked because I had always hated running. Let me explain… Back in high school, my gym teacher made us run track during cicada season. I am genuinely terrified of bugs, so I never ran again after that…until 15 years later.

My first race was the Shamrock 5K, and I dare say I’ve been hooked ever since! What I didn’t expect was complete strangers cheering me on and pouring energy into me I didn’t know I needed. That feeling was so infectious that I crossed the finish line already thinking about the next race. 

The running community embraced me from day one and has continued to open doors I never could have imagined. I am so proud to be on Charm City Run’s race team. Every medal I earn, I dedicate to my grandmother

This year, I ran my second half marathon and I’m proud to be taking on the B3 Series. One of the things that has kept me growing as a runner is leaning into the resources Charm City Run offers. I completed the Sole of the City 10K training program, and I am currently in the half marathon training program. I can honestly say the coaches meet you exactly where you are. If you have ever thought about starting your running journey but didn’t know where to begin, this is your sign.

Outside of running, I’m a scientist working in early cancer diagnostics. It means the world to me that both inside and outside of my career, I get to do something that helps people. Running taught me that healing doesn’t always look the way you expect it to. 

Sometimes it looks like showing up scared, surrounded by strangers who become your biggest cheerleaders. If you’re in a dark place, I hope you find your thing. The thing that pulls you forward even when you don’t feel ready.

Thank you, Charm City Run, for creating races and a community worth running toward. You’re the reason I love to run now.