When Denise Dollar's son was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes, of course her every waking minute became about taking care of his health. What she didn't anticipate happening was the putting of herself, and her own physical and mental health, on the back burner. Like most mothers of children who have a life-threatening illness or a special need, Dollar went about the business of mothering her ill child, unfortunately to the detriment of her own health, as her self-care took a backseat to her son's care. Upon realizing she needed to make a change, and to inspire and help other mothers like herself, she founded the non-profit Heart Strides. Heart Stride's mission is "to support moms during a time when they are least likely to make their health a priority. To achieve this mission, we provide new running shoes to moms caring for children with a critical/chronic illness or a special need." Mothers are also equipped with other running gear if needed, as well as encouragement and inspiration to start an exercise program.
By keeping mothers moving forward with walking, biking, and/or running, Heart Strides hopes these moms on the move will ultimately be better equipped mentally and physically to take care of their children. And one mom on the receiving end of a pair of Heart Strides new running shoes agrees, "... in the midst of chaos, running allows me to be who I want to be for my son, leaving the stress and worry of things that I can't fix for him on the pavement."
As we enter into the holiday season, the busiest and often most stressful time of the year for mothers, Heart Strides is partnering with Another Mother Runner to help you move forward, keeping you fit and sane during the holidays, while raising funds for running shoes and the Heart Strides' mission. Their program, Stride Through the Holidays, is a fun, five-week training program running November 9-December 13, and is for all levels of walkers and runners. The unique, quick workouts blend running and strength training, with most workouts clocking in around 30 minutes. Workouts are five days a week, with an option for an additional day if your schedule allows. Bonus: the plan also has quick, helpful cues for self-care so your mind and spirit hum as your legs run. This five-week challenge is all about forward motion, fitness, accountability, and community, not about training for a specific race. You'll receive a PDF of the plan once you sign up. Also included is a private Facebook support group, as well as a private Strava group to share accomplishments. Cost of the challenge is $25, with 100 percent of the proceeds going directly to Heart Strides.
To support Heart Strides, and get in prime mental and physical shape for the holidays, visit
Another Mother Runner.
For more information about Heart Strides, including where to donate new and gently used running shoes, or to nominate a deserving mother, visit them on the web at Two Shoes One Mission, and on Facebook and Twitter.