Runner Spotlight: Joan

We are pleased to share this letter from one of our runners at the 2025 Biggest Little Ultra. Joan not only participated in the 12 hour fixed time race, but spoiler alert: she won the women's division for that race! So impressive for someone who donated her kidney just a year prior. The entire BLU team wants to express our appreciation to you Joan for this incredible organ donation, and to let you know that you are an inspiration to us all!

Thank you Joan for giving us permission to share your letter that was submitted to Race Director Todd Leigh:

Biggest (not little) THANK YOU to you and the team of volunteers for the amazing race! For safety, resources, warm food + snack buffet, and encouragement, they were quick! I appreciate that they indulged my glee every time (x23) I pretended for the winning-photo!

You see, each mile was truly a victory for me. After a kidney donation surgery in June 2024, I had high expectations after my recovery. Reality smacked me in the face with a reminder that nature/healing does not go by my training plan! It has been a heck of a roller coaster both physically, more so mentally. Running is my outlet, and I just cant get into knitting. I’ve done some 5ks post-donation, but they were very tough for me! The best part was seeing my friends.

When I saw this race, I thought, “I wish”. I had doubts, fears, and real health concerns. However, with help from therapists & specialists (saying nooooo)and 100% support from my husband, he signed us up together to celebrate our 11th anniversary!

BLU was perfect for my first attempt to be an “athlete” again! The loop felt safe, the scenery never got old, and help came with a smile. It was a great place for me to appreciate my body’s resilience and reflect on how much training for this event helped my mind. I’ve read, I’ve heard, I’ve seen impressive athletic comebacks from others after sharing their spares. Race day was for me to FEEL what I have been blessed all along.

So, thank you for making this happen it means so much to me, and thanks for sharing your passion with us! Looking forward to next year:)