Running Healed Me: Joshua Ross’s Ultra Comeback After Cancer | Running Tales
How do you rebuild your life when it all falls apart? For Joshua Ross, the answer was simple but powerful: run but it wasn’t as simple as that word makes it sound. Ultra running became a part of Joshua’s cancer recovery protocol and it has led him to places he never imagined before his diagnosis.
In this episode of Running Tales with Craig Lewis, we hear the extraordinary story of Joshua Ross, an everyday athlete who turned to ultra running as a way to recover physically, emotionally, and spiritually after being diagnosed with leukemia and going through a divorce.
Diagnosed with Leukemia, But Still Moving Forward
In 2021, Joshua was given life-altering news: he had a treatable form of leukemia. Just as he was navigating the emotional weight of a recent divorce, he found himself facing a fight for his health. But instead of retreating, he leaned into motion—starting with a bold challenge: run for 100 days in a row.
Even before reaching remission, Joshua committed to showing up every single day. Each step became a radical act of resilience. By day 80, he was in remission—but the healing wasn’t just physical.
Finding Meaning in Every Mile
Joshua didn’t have a long racing resume. In fact, when he decided to sign up for his first race—a 55k trail ultra in Idaho—he wasn’t sure what to expect. What followed was a deeply emotional experience that became a personal rebirth. He not only finished but won his age group, crossing the finish line in tears.
Running became more than training; it became therapy. Each mile served as a space for grief, joy, reflection, and growth.
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Going Viral and Building Community
Joshua’s story began to resonate on social media, where he shared his journey with raw honesty and gratitude. Thousands followed along as he documented his training, reflected on the emotional toll of treatment, and talked candidly about anxiety, fatigue, and hope.
What makes Joshua’s story stand out is his grounded approach. He doesn’t chase podiums—he chases peace. Running is a way to connect with others, honor indigenous traditions, and stay present in a life that once felt uncertain.
What’s Next? Staying Grounded in the Journey
Looking ahead, Joshua is considering an 88k ultra or another trail marathon—but his goals go beyond distance. He’s focused on sustainability, mental health, and remaining connected to the reasons he started running in the first place.
His message is clear: you don’t have to be elite to be extraordinary. You just have to be willing to begin.
Listen to the Full Conversation
If you’re looking for inspiration, motivation, and a reminder of the power of movement, don’t miss this episode of Running Tales with Craig Lewis. More than an ultra running and cancer recovery story…..this is a story about living.
Timestamps:
- 00:01 – Introduction with host Craig Lewis
- 00:01:50 – Cancer diagnosis and learning to accept mortality
- 00:05:51 – Starting the 100-day running challenge
- 00:10:29 – Life perspective shift, fatigue recovery
- 00:21:17 – First ultra marathon and emotional breakthroughs
- 00:40:16 – Impact of sharing his journey publicly
- 00:44:59 – Future race plans and community focus
- 00:52:40 – Navigating life post-remission
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