The marathon runner who came back from TWO open-heart surgeries
Marathon running is filled with inspirational people who have defied the odds. Consider the story of a Kansas man who is aiming to run a marathon in every US state.
This is not likely something Kyle Walker could ever have imagined while he was fighting for his life in hospital in 2016. After being diagnosed with a problematic aortic valve that he had had since birth, doctors performed two open-heart surgeries. After narrowly cheating death during the second operation, he was able to take part in a half-marathon following rehab three months later - albeit moving very slowly, at walking pace.
Having put on weight following his earlier divorce, he was reaching 320 pounds when he realised he needed to do something. Since taking up running, he has shed around 100 pounds, gradually getting into the groove with 5K races - something he said helped fight off depression. He has now fully embraced running and took part in the recent Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon in Biloxi - his 15th 26.2 miler.
Walker has become a passionate advocate for marathons and encourages others to get involved. He firmly believes that he is well-placed to offer advice to novices and seasoned runners alike - particularly those who, like him, have come back from poor health.
Additionally, he has benefited from the support of friends and family and a tight knit running community in Kansas City who have propelled him all the way. If you feel inspired by Kyle Walker’s story, reach out to marathon coach Maximum Mileage Coaching today for professional marathon running tips.
