Andrea Vellinga says running saved her life. It has been over 10 years since Andrea’s life was forever changed. On August 13, 2011, Andrea’s life was forever changed when she was critically injured when the stage collapsed in high wind prior to the Sugarland concert at the Indiana State Fair. As a result of the accident, part of her skull had to be removed and she remained in a coma for weeks.
But she hasn’t let her injury keep her from her love of running.
Andrea has been running since she was eight years old. She participated in the Indy Mini at least eight times and has even conquered the Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K since the accident. Prior to the accident, Andrea had been training for an all-women’s half marathon. Running is truly a passion of hers.
“I may be crazy, but I actually like it!” Andrea said.
Though she faces many challenges, Andrea still perseveres to pursue this passion.
“My challenges since accident are my weakness on the left side so, my run now is basically a fast walk, but it’s something. Plus, I don’t have the energy I used to, but I can overcome that, thank God. My brain injury and recovery seem to be very rare because a brain injury can happen at any point, for any reason, and I’ve said if I can get people just to exercise at all, I’m happy”
Her daughter Lydia has been by her side through it all. Andrea says she wants to set an example for Lydia and keeps running to ensure she is around for Lydia as long as possible. Her father’s support has also been trivial in Andrea’s journey. She says the main reason she runs is because of his influence, and he is even running the Indy Mini with her this May.
“I’m extra excited for this year’s Indy Mini because I’ve realized how running basically saved my life. Because doctors told my parents that night (of the accident), I may heal because of what good shape I was in.”
“I just feel I accomplished something when I finish any distance so 5k is no different to me than half marathon and at this point I’m grateful to even be here to try!”
Her advice to other runners, “Think of how important it is to be healthy and to be around to see what your future could be because no one has any clue.”