The thought of participating in a half marathon occurred to me last year, when I was watching the race while preparing for work. Seeing all the fun and enthusiasm planted the seed in my mind, which caused me to think what a blessing it would be if I could run again.
My name is Winard Anderson Jr., and I am 69 years old. I am preparing myself every day to be able to run the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. This opportunity presents a remarkable undertaking seeing as it will be my first time running in over 44 years. I am a below-the-knee amputee with a very short stump. The challenge presents complications at times when walking, however, I am confident I will conquer the vigorous demand of running this half-marathon. I have a wide range of support from Indiana Prosthetics, family, friends, and co-workers who have surrounded me with encouragement. Matt and his team at Indiana Prosthetics have developed a prosthetic running device that will allow me to be successful in this pursuit.
After making the commitment to run in the Mini-Marathon, I whole-heartedly embraced the idea of running in honor of my father. I pre-registered to run, received my running shoes and running leg. I shared my excitement and plans with my cousin in Jamaica, who later reminded me that May 4, the day of the race, is the day my dad transitioned from life to heaven’s reward. I must press on and cross the finish line.
Currently, I am approaching 12 years of marriage to my beautiful and loving wife, Trena. Together we share three daughters and one son, along with seven grandchildren. I work at the RoomPlace Greenwood location as a sales manager. Outside of work, I am blessed to serve as a Deacon at Lee’s Temple Church of God in Christ, here in Indianapolis under Pastor Michael Coleman Sr.
Join Winard in conquering the Indy Mini on May 4, in Downtown Indianapolis! Register today at indymini.com/register.