Today we’d like to introduce you to David Sabot.
David, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am David Sabot, the Race Director for a USATF certified 5K run on November 3rd, 2018 in Nassau Bay, TX. The run is appropriately titled: RUN FOR HEALTH. I have been running since the sixth grade and ran competitive track in high school and college. Running was an escape for me because when I run I don’t think of anything else, I just run. I enjoyed the mental challenge that running presents; when the mind says you’re out of breath, you’re tired, you need to stop but you know the body can continue-and you can will it to do so.
In February 2012 I faced a life-changing event. I was admitted to the ICU at Clear Lake Regional Hospital Houston, Texas, in critical condition with acute bilateral (both lungs) pulmonary embolisms. I told the doctor, “That’s impossible. I lift weights three days a week, I run three days a week, I’m an athlete, I’m healthy and competitive. How is this possible?” The doctor told me that my clots emanated from the cast placed on my left foot due to an injury sustained the week before. The doctor asked if there was anyone at the hospital with me. I replied “No.” Then he said I needed to call somebody. I asked, “Why?” He responded, “Because you may not be here tomorrow.” After he left the room an overwhelming sensation of death came over me. Statically, 97% of the people die from this… So, why not me?
My story is about “running for health” and how that has unexpectedly affected my life in a dramatic and life-saving way. It details unforeseen circumstances that brought a very proud and healthy individual way below doctors’ remotest hopes of survival. Additionally, it’s the story about the mental anguish of coming to grips with my relationships, my tragedy, my denial of circumstances, and my death. But this story also includes a track record of healthy lifestyle choices being recognized as the attribute carrying me to where I am today. This event unveiled the fragility of life to me, and the importance of being an advocate for healthy life choices.
I lived because I run. Maybe, just maybe, a participant of Run For Health may sit across from a doctor and hear the words “you live because you run.”
Has it been a smooth road?
Returning to running with permanent lung damage and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) represented a tremendous challenge. Throw in two arthroscopic knee surgeries (July, Dec. 2016) and a partial knee replacement on March 20th, 2017. I run three days a week and will be running the Houston Half Marathon on January 14th, 2018.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Run For Health – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Run For Health will host its sixth annual 5K Run/Walk on November 3th, 2018. This Run for Health event will originate and culminate at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 18220 Upper Bay Road, Houston, Texas. All proceeds of this event will go to Anchor Point, which is a key community resource that delivers hope to families including pregnant teens and women, babies on the way, troubled youth and their families, foster and adopted children, and families considering adoption.
What sets Run For Health apart:
• The race course is USATF certified.
• There is a $300 cash prize for the overall male/female winner.
• Medals to all finishers.
• Trophies to top three in 9 age divisions
• 22 health-related vendors with lots of giveaways.
• Unique door prizes. Example: Mountain Bike, Houston Texan game tickets, $100 gift cards.
I am most proud of starting our race on time every year, our organization and attention to detail, the commitment of the team captain and volunteers, and the rapid growth of the runner participation.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 713-705-7038
- Email: lyk2speed@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Davidrunforhealth
Image Credit:
Main photo: Kelly and King Photography
Third Coast Imagery
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