'I had to learn to run again'

Goal: My goal at first was simple: Walk more than two steps without pain. Once I was able to reach that goal, I set my sights on walking a 5K, which I did in 2009. I have to raise the bar again, so my new goal is to run the 5K at today's Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic.

Why I did it: Before my injuries in the Bosnian War, I was the quintessential tomboy. I played soccer at every opportunity, on boys' teams of course. I loved playing basketball and tennis or running just for the feel of the wind in my hair!

After losing my left leg and barely saving my right, I was forced to become a spectator of the sports I loved. Because my residual limb is very difficult to fit, walking was very painful for me. I tried not to let that slow me down, but every physical exertion, even walking a few blocks, would require days of rest afterward.

Two years ago, I was inspired by Clearwater Marine Aquarium's most famous resident, Winter, the dolphin with a prosthetic tail. Through Winter, I was fortunate enough to have found Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics, which now makes and maintains my prosthetic, and it fits like a glove.

I love being physically active and fit. Now that I can walk (and run) pain-free, I am going to make the most of it!

How I did it: I've always eaten healthfully: lean meat and fish (except for the traditional Bosnian lamb dishes at special occasions), fruits, vegetables. I don't like sweet things, so cakes and cookies aren't too much of a temptation for me.

Most people take walking for granted. For me, every step needs my attention. I have to consciously balance over my prosthetic or risk stumbling and falling. Until last year, I had not run a step for 16 years! In order to meet my newest goal of running a 5K, I had to learn to run again.

The Challenged Athletes Foundation hosts periodic running clinics for its athletes. I was lucky enough to attend last year's clinic, held in San Diego. This year's clinic will be in St. Petersburg on April 24. The coaches were amazing, and the running drills were challenging and tough. By the end of the clinic, I was running and feeling that wind in my hair once again.

Afterward, I increased my endurance by running at least three times a week on the treadmill and on the Dunedin Causeway. I gradually increased both my speed and distance.

Believe it or not, my Wii Fit also helps me work on my balance challenges. Whether I'm swooshing through a virtual ski slalom or heading digital soccer balls, the Wii Fit helps me maintain my center of balance, which in turn helps me run more smoothly. Because it's fun, I play a lot!

Hurdles: Before getting my new prosthetic, the condition of my residual limb kept me from any meaningful exercise. While there were times when I became frustrated, I did not give up. Not being able to walk, run and play sports was not an option for me. I persisted, trying several different prosthetists and prosthetic models.

I moved to Florida because I just don't like the cold. I love looking at snow, but only for a few days. When it's cold, windy or raining, it's hard to get motivated to get out and run. If it's too cold to run the causeway, I hit the treadmill at my favorite gym.

Best advice: Through my years of physical therapy and rehabilitation, I learned that being consistent pays off. On days when I'm tempted to skip a workout, I remind myself of the pleasure I get from running. I try to picture myself coming across that finish line, pleasantly out of breath and with a wonderful sense of accomplishment. I lace up my running shoes, bundle up and hit the road. Pretty soon, my workout is done and my newest goal is one day closer.

It also is important to have patience with yourself and your results. If you've been sedentary for a number of months or years, you can't expect to run a mile the first time you try. Keep trying and be patient. Before you know it, you'll go from walking a mile, to jogging a mile, to running a mile and more. Don't give up; you'll be surprised at what your mind and body can accomplish!

I Made It is a regular feature highlighting individual fitness success stories and does not reflect the opinions of 4you, which encourages you to work with a trainer or research ahead of time any new fitness plans. To share your story, visit TBO.com, Keyword: Made It, or send it to mshedden@tampatrib.com or Mary Shedden, The Tampa Tribune, 200 S. Parker St., Tampa FL 33606.