First-Timer Patricia French

GR Editor: What was your most memorable moment from Gospel Run 2018?

Patricia: My favorite moment was crossing the finish line! I was 392 pounds at my heaviest. My health was so bad that I used to walk with a cane and sometimes even crawled to the bathroom. I never thought I could do the whole race, but with the push of my cousin Nichole and friend Kara they walked with me the whole way! At the end, we pushed it and even jogged.

The feeling I had running over the finish line was an accomplishment physically, but also spiritually. I had adversities in 2018, and my Pastor Raymond Quintana preached his New Year’s message “Run Your Race!” No matter how tough life gets, push through. We are all on our own journeys. I get teary eyed every time I think of myself crossing the finish line!

GR Editor: How has Gospel Run impacted your life post-race?

Patricia: I am focusing on my health more. It is a journey. I am not where I want to be, but I am definitely not where I used to be. I did two 5Ks last year. I can do sit ups, push-ups, and of course, my favorite, bicycling! Gospel Run has impacted not only myself but my team as well! Our team Word of Life Warriors is amazing! We push and motivate each other. We accomplished doing the 5K race together while representing our church, and did not quit. We all cheered each other at the finish line, and they all waited for me last year! We are starting spring training next week.  Gospel Run has impacted my life forever!

GR Editor: What advice would you offer to first-time Gospel Run participants?

Patricia: If I can do it, then you can do it! Surround yourself with people who will motivate you and push you. My big brother David always tells me ‘can’t is not in your vocabulary!’  If you need help preparing for Gospel Run feel free to join our team Word of Life Warriors. We meet at our church in Crest Hill, IL on Sundays at 5pm starting in March. We are going to pray, work out together, and run and walk. You might have hesitations, thinking ‘can I do this?’ Philippians 4:13 says “I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!”

Set a goal. Last year my goal was to just finish the race. This year my goal is to be a little faster than last year. I would love to jog the whole race. Can I do it now? No. But with proper nutrition and training I know that I can! 

Patricia has since become the co-captain for the Word of Life Warriors team!  Her goal is to build a Word of Life run/walk team of over 100strong!  She is truly an inspiration to those around her and the Gospel Run family.  Go Patricia!