Behind every runner and walker is a story, a personal “why”. Lee Hoxworth’s journey to complete the 2025 OhioHealth Capital City Half and Quarter Marathon is a powerful story we’re proud to share, in his own words. “On November 27, 2023, I had gastric bypass surgery through OhioHealth. At my heaviest, I was around 480 pounds. I was diabetic, had high blood pressure, and everyday things were tough. I travel a lot for work, so fitting into airplane seats – just navigating travel in general – was a major challenge. Thanks to Dr. Thomas Sonnanstine and his team, the surgical weightloss program’s nutritional staff, and the doctors, nurses, and staff at Riverside Hospital's bariatric wing, I received the most amazing care and support throughout the entire process. From learning how to properly fuel my body with nutrition to getting through the ups and downs, they were there every step of the way. Now, a year and a half later, I still receive outstanding care from the team during my regular check-ins. Today, I’m around 230 pounds lighter, sitting in the 250s. I am no longer diabetic, I no longer have high blood pressure, and I’m living a much more active lifestyle! I’ve taken up ice skating lessons, started playing ice hockey, and I’m constantly on the go. Before surgery, I never could have imagined myself doing a half marathon. I had completed several 5Ks and a few 10Ks, but those were a huge struggle – I would finish, but they were slow and I could barely breathe just walking them. Yesterday, April 26, 2025 – my birthday – I completed the Capital City Half Marathon in Columbus, Ohio. My good friend Anna Novak convinced me to sign up with her. Standing in the corral yesterday morning, I honestly didn’t know if I would make it through the 13.1 miles. But 5K in, I had already set a PR for my fastest 5K. At 10K, I had set a PR for my fastest 10K ever. And the best part – I was able to carry a full conversation with Anna the entire way. We kept a comfortable pace, felt great, and ended up averaging a 14:40/mile – way faster than the 16:30/mile pace we thought we'd be at! I am so thankful to OhioHealth for giving me the tools, support, and second chance to get my life back.” Please join us in sending love to Lee. And if you were at the #CapCityHalf – tell us YOUR “why” here in the comments too. (fb)

Join Team OhioHealth at the 2025 Walk MS on Saturday, May 17 at Capital University. Let’s walk together to help create a world free of multiple sclerosis.💙 Find details and register at ohlth.co/42FnnWp. #BelieveinWE #WeareOhioHealth (fb)