As a national sponsor of the Girls on the Run SoleMates charity running program, Garmin is partnering with this great organization to further their mission and share the stories of the women and men who are “running for a reason”. Runners can sign up for any event — runs, walks, bike rides or triathlons — and raise funds that will support their chosen council of Girls on the Run. Want your next race to help change lives? Find out more here. Today’s inspiring story comes from Linda, who has modeled resiliency to her own children as well as girls she has influenced as a coach for Girls on the Run. Linda’s now training for her first half marathon this fall. Through Garmin’s trade-in program benefitting Girls on the Run SoleMates, she has earned a Forerunner to track every mile and minute of her training. Good luck Linda!

Three years ago, I was 70 pounds overweight. I couldn’t keep up with my three young children. I needed a change! I started exercising and eating right. After shedding the weight, my goal was to complete in a triathlon – and I did it! I was so proud of the accomplishment, but better than that, was seeing my family cheer me on at the end. It brought me to tears.

Then two years ago, I suffered a deep, severe depression. It saddened me how it was affecting my family. It took the support of my family, friends, doctors and God to get me through it. After having my children see me go through that, I was determined to help encourage and empower them to live their lives full of love, a healthy self-image and an active lifestyle.

When we heard about the Girls on the Run program at my kids’ school, we knew that my oldest daughter Meghan had to join.

What a fantastic program! This year, I had the privilege to be a volunteer coach. To know that I can be a positive role model in the girls’ lives is a truly fulfilling experience! The 22 girls were so fun, willing to share, hardworking…just an absolute joy to work with. And after a severe illness this spring, and a slow start to running, I was able to run with the girls at the Celebration 5k Run. So happy!

And that brings me to SoleMates. To be able to fundraise and run for a reason, just makes sense. I believe in the GOTR program with all my heart and believe that every girl should have the opportunity to participate. And showing my daughters, as well as the girls in GOTR, that I am trying to achieve a goal that I have never done before (run a half marathon this coming fall), especially after so many trials, I hope to encourage them to step out of their comfort zone and try new things, as well. And again, my family will be there at the end to cheer me on!