Running Helped Me Heal

When I first met Shenita Lancaster, I noticed her smile. Not the kind of smile people put on for pictures. The kind of smile that tells you they genuinely love life. That smile has carried her through a lot.

Shenita spent 20 years in the Navy. Like many service members, she learned structure, discipline, and leadership. She also learned how to put other people first.

For years, running was something she only did because the military required it.

She hated it. Then everything changed.

While stationed in Europe, Shenita experienced the Brussels airport bombing. The trauma followed her long after the event ended. When she returned to the United States, she needed something that would help her process what she had experienced.

That something became running.

Running Became Her Space

Shenita described running as the place where she could finally focus on herself.

Not on work orresponsibility. Not on the hundreds of people who depended on her. Just herself.

Each run became a chance to clear her mind and regain control.

When she retired from the Navy and COVID changed the world, running became even more important.

It provided structure and routine. Most importantly, it provided connection.

Even a simple wave from another runner reminded her she wasn’t alone.

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Finding Community

Running eventually took Shenita far beyond her neighborhood. She has run major races around the world and is chasing the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Along the way she discovered something special called the Black Unicorns.

The Black Unicorns celebrate marathon runners of color at the Boston Marathon. Shenita described the experience as being surrounded by love and encouragement.

For a runner standing on one of the biggest start lines in the world, that support matters.

It reminds people they belong.

More Than Miles

The best part of Shenita’s story isn’t the medals. It’s the people.

She loves meeting new runners, traveling to new countries, and learning about different cultures.

Running gave her a reason to explore the world. More importantly, it gave the world a chance to meet her.

And that’s why her story matters. Not because she runs marathons. Not because she served in the Navy. Sure she has traveled the world but that isn’t it either.

Her story matters because it reminds us that every person standing on a start line has a story worth hearing.

And there is a spot at the starting line for everybody and every body.

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