Runner with Diabetes

Running has reversed my age. I am an energetic person with more vigor and vitality. Running gives me energy and enhances my temperament.

During my school days, I used to participate in the annual running competition and was also a hockey player. Professionally, I worked as a journalist earlier, which involved a hectic lifestyle with irregular eating times. Sometimes I would work for long hours surviving only on tea. Later, I transitioned to PR, and my schedule became even more erratic. I was involved in day and night events, and road shows, and had no time for a controlled and thoughtful diet. Unfortunately, all of this eventually led to diabetes.

When I was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 37, I felt like everything had come to an end. Diabetes is like a domino effect, starting with one organ malfunctioning and then damaging 4 to 5 other organs if not controlled. I was extremely stressed and upset since it is an irreversible condition with no turning back.

For 2 years, I refrained from taking medication. Instead, I started engaging in a little bit of exercise and began cycling. During this time, I also read a lot about the Mumbai Marathon. Interestingly, my home is just 400 meters from Azad Maidan. All those years, I observed these runners coming so early in the morning, and I wondered who these crazy people were, disturbing our sleep. And now, I am one of them. Destiny played its part here. 😄

I completed my first HM (Hiranandani Thane Marathon) in 2:02 hours back in November 2011. In January 2012, I participated in the Tata Mumbai Marathon. I connected with a few people and started learning more about the event and the runs. I successfully completed my first full marathon in 3:55 hours. I believe it was my Father-in-law's blessing who passed away the same day, that saw me achieve my sub-4 target.

It has been almost 11-12 years now since I started running. I have completed around 50-60 half marathons, 30 full marathons, 4 ultras, and one duathlon. Additionally, I have completed 2 Procam Slams by running at Tata-organized events in Bangalore, Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai.

I intend to continue running until my last breath. I have no desire to quit. Running is not only vital for my health, but it also keeps me young and energetic. I aspire to participate in races outside of India, in beautiful places like Phuket, Bali, Bhutan, Nepal, and other surrounding areas. I have already completed the Dubai full Marathon in 3:51 hours.

Although my sugar levels are under control, I still require medication. Diabetes has the potential to impact other organs significantly. I am currently searching for a good running club in the nearby Marine Drive area to engage in strength training, but unfortunately, there aren't many options available. I started training with Mr. Savio D'Souza (National champion from 1984-1988), just before the Covid hit. However, post-Covid, when I connected with him again, he is not much active in the training circuit.

Running has given me a lot, and I would like to contribute to its growth. I have some excellent ideas for planning and executing events targeting different groups of people. Perhaps one day, I can implement these plans in collaboration with like-minded individuals.