Well, the iCan Team is three weeks in to their training…. every marathon training program has a “long” run component and it is refreshing to hear that each long the team does it is the longest they have EVER run. To grow one must step outside of their comfort zone, looks like the iCan Team is growing. Growing physically, spiritually, mentally, creating new communities….
Each week a new iCan Team member will be featured, this week it is Stephanie Lengtat, enjoy…
Age: 32
Birthday: August 11
Job: Digital/Creative Manager for Gannett Corp.
Married, 1 son age 13
I love animals, art, jewelry, live music and dancing. My job as a manager for the Gannett corporation allows me to utilize my creative talent along with my passion for excellence.
I am married to an incredibly talented, empathic man who supports me in everything I do. My son, from a previous marriage, was diagnosed with PDD/High Functioning Autism at age 3 and I shed many tears worried about his future. Today, I am extremely proud of the man he’s becoming and feel blessed to be his mom.
I spent the first 25 years of my life overweight, feeling extremely defective, often lonely, no matter how many people were around. Through several miracles and amazing people who’ve graced my life, I am eternally grateful to be in such a wonderful place today! I blog about the highs and lows of my life in hopes that it inspires others to change their lives for the better too. www.powerfrominside.com
Being part of the iCan team has refreshed my soul and made me believe I can accomplish this goal! Just a few weeks in, I’ve already met some incredible people who have shared similar struggles to mine and overcome them. I was humbled and encouraged by reading “The Go-Giver”. Like the main character in the book, I want to succeed and can easily become selfish in that quest.
Distance running gives one a lot of time to think. You cover miles of ground by taking one step at a time. As Loran says, a marathon is just 1 mile 26 times! Being part of a group on the same journey at different paces and places in life opens my heart to new understanding. Even after all the weight loss and events I’ve participated in so far, I don’t see myself as “fit”. Being around folks very new to running makes me realize how far I’ve come and I am awed by their bravery!
I need the support of people who listen to me, understand what I’m experiencing, and share their heart with me. It helps me to have a goal, a plan, and people counting on me. I need guidance by someone I trust in what to do, how to do it and what equipment to use. I’m scared of a lot of things…. I need someone to help me overcome those fears and believe in my ability. Without someone to cheer you on, a race is just another workout.
I am grateful I am able to run, grateful for this experience! I’ve heard about “the wall” experienced at mile 20 but have never experienced it. After running 13.1, I feel a rush from accomplishing the milestone. I anticipate feeling it even deeper after having reached the end of my “rope” and going on. I plan to jump for joy with my friends and loved ones at the finish line and enjoy celebratory spice cake baked by my soul sister once my stomach is ready for it.
I can do this… I am doing this…
