Anybody out there looking for a good, inspirational story? Pamela Hansen tells of her weight loss journey in a book entitled, “Running with Angels” where she turned personal tragedy into triumph over obesity. I’m not sure where I’ve been over the last few years, but my friend Michal turned me on to Pam’s story and I knew I had to read it.
You know what I loved most about Pam’s story? She is just like SO many of us. She’s a normal woman who faced personal tragedy (who hasn’t?) and, despite all the tough hurdles to overcome, she did it. . . which is what makes her extraordinary! Her story is so candid and I know that many of you can find ways to relate and understand specific parts and ideas expressed throughout Pam’s journey. I certainly did! Among many points covered in her story she mentions:
- The importance of staying focused and continually moving forward.
- We should never give up. . . even when we make mistakes.
- Change takes time and patience.
- It is okay to ask for help.
- We must take responsibility for our own actions.
- A good amount of time and energy is wasted by wondering if people are judging us unfairly.
- It is crucial and important to make time for ourselves.
- Change on the outside has to start with change on the inside.
- Setting goals is crucial.
- Tips on how to stay on track, motivate, and encourage us to keep going.
- And much more!
To top it all off, she now sponsors one 5k run/walk per year where the proceeds go to the “Angel Watch” program, a part of Women’s Services at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center. The 2011 run/walk was held last Saturday (May 21) and I ran it with one of my sisters. It was a beautiful run through the gardens at Thanksgiving Point and I loved the idea of running for a cause.
I’m been lucky enough to have a few email exchanges with Pam this week and she is so delightful. While we haven’t personally met, I feel such a strong connection with her just by reading her story, participating in her 5k event, and then having a small amount of communication with her. You can find out more about Pam by viewing her website. You can also find out more about the annual 5k event here. If you’re looking for motivation and inspiration that you can AND WILL relate to, “Running with Angels” is a must read!
The scenery was so beautiful during the run that I just HAD to stop and capture it while we were in the Thanksgiving Point Gardens. (I am on the right.)
I don't know how many people registered for the 5k, but I was amazed at the number of participants so I tried to capture a glimpse of this mass of runners/walkers.
More beautiful scenery that we were privileged to enjoy during the event.
We finished the 5k and loved it so much that we'll definitely be back next year! Thanks Pam!
Mimi's Fit Foods 
So many good times last week. Wish I looked as lovely as you and the tulips in the pictures :). Such is life when you don’t get enough sleep. Can’t wait for our 1/2 in July. I’m signed up and am trying to figure out how to train on the road. We’ll have to chat. Love you!
You look great and I am signed up for the 1/2 marathon in July too. We will totally get your training schedule all mapped out!
Anyone else want to join in the fun in running a 1/2 marathon in July? Come join us as we run the Timpanogos Half Marathon down American Fork Canyon on July 30. It’s going to be fun!
I read that book several years ago. I was really inspired by her weight loss journey but the one thing I remember taking away from the book was that I will never ever run a marathon…
You are too funny!
Mimi, what a delightful account of your experience last Saturday! It was such a beautiful day. I’m so glad you came. I would have loved to say hello to you and your sister. Next year!
And to you, wonderful new friend who just wrote, I’m excited for you to run your first 5K. Hang in there–I hope you have a great time training and completing it. I’m cheering for you!
Thanks again, Mimi, for spreading so many delicious, inspirational bites for us to chew! Keep in touch!
So happy to see your comment here! Thanks again for your beautiful and inspirational story and for “allowing” me to blog about it. You’re an extraordinary person, my dear!
I just finished Pam’s book 2 days ago..it was very inspirational!! She started out exactly where I did 3 months ago on my weight loss journey. Right now I am at a plateau, and so reading about her story, has given me more ideas to get my progress moving again! I have just signed up to run my first 5k in Sept., and her story gives me hope that I really can do it and suceed!
I’m already so proud of how far you’ve come and I know you can do that 5k! I’m SO glad you found some inspiration with Pam’s story. Isn’t she great!? And, if you ever hit any kind of plateau, don’t hesitate to ask me for some ideas to keep your body moving. I am happy to help at any time! Keep up your awesome work!