It has taken me awhile to decide if I wanted to step forward and tell my story, but while visiting with the staff at my cardiologist office I decided to be more open.

Growing up I struggled with physical activity. I was not good at sports, and especially hated running. It was very difficult and always left me bright red in the face. I truly avoided running as much as possible. Then through some random circumstances when I was 19 years old I found out I had a rare heart defect, which was the cause of my struggle with physical activity.

Since finding out about this heart issue I have undergone two major heart surgeries and enjoy the wonder of a pacemaker to help keep things regulated for me. This last heart surgery I had was two years ago and done by an amazing surgeon at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. This impressive work left me in the best heart health I have ever been.

About a year ago my family decided they were going to run an event together. I hated to be left out of this, but I had never been a runner. Physically, I have never felt like I could, but after some encouragement from my family I called my cardiologist and decided to inquire about running. I was told that I had no physical limitations and was encouraged to train and try it, so I jumped in!

Big Cottonwood Canyon holds a special place in my heart. I worked several years as a camp counselor at a camp located in this canyon. So at my husband’s encouragement I decided to try my first half marathon - the Big Cottonwood Half Marathon. This is truly something I never would have thought I could do. I had a visit with my cardiologist and she was amazed at what I have been able to accomplish with my running. My heart is still in the best state that it ever has been in my life. My pacemaker is a truly incredible device that helps me live life to the fullest.

I have never run in something like this before and consider it a huge milestone in my life to accomplish something that once would never have been possible.

UPDATE: Cary completed her first half marathon ever at Big Cottonwood on September 14, 2013. Way to go, Cary!