In a remarkable story that recently emerged from the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials in Eugene, Oregon, a runner named Lisa Johnson showcased her incredible determination. Just four months post-delivery, Lisa was competing for the first time since giving birth, having trained throughout her entire pregnancy for the Olympic trials.
Last year, the 30-year-old athlete achieved personal bests in her 1500-meter and 800-meter races, positioning herself as a strong contender for the Olympic team. However, her plans took an unexpected turn in July 2015 when she discovered she was pregnant, despite having a copper IUD in place.
Lisa shared her surprising news on her blog in September, stating, “You might wonder why a top runner would choose to have a baby in an Olympic year. The truth is, I didn’t choose it. The IUD is supposed to be over 99% effective, but here I am, part of the less than 1%.”
Pregnancies occurring with an IUD involve heightened risks, such as ectopic pregnancies, and there are concerns about the safety of IUD removal. Fortunately, Lisa’s pregnancy proceeded without complications, motivating her to pursue Olympic aspirations. “If I can beat the odds of getting pregnant, who’s to say I can’t defy the odds again?” she wrote.
Throughout her pregnancy, Lisa documented her training journey on her blog and social media, even featuring in an ESPN documentary titled “Run Mama Run,” which followed her training during the final months of pregnancy. Reports indicate that she was running approximately 40 miles a week by the end of her term.
In March, Lisa welcomed a healthy baby girl named Emma. Just two weeks later, she resumed her running routine, with medical clearance. Despite facing criticism for training vigorously during and immediately after her pregnancy, she felt compelled to keep pursuing her passion. “I know some will think I’m crazy for believing I have a chance, but sitting idly would be a bigger disappointment for me,” Lisa shared.
Though she did not advance to the next heat in her recent competition, her commitment is commendable. After giving birth, many find themselves wanting to rest, but Lisa’s dedication is truly inspiring. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she expressed gratitude for her supporters, emphasizing that her journey is just beginning: “Today may not have been the perfect ending, but it marks the start of a new chapter for our family. Thank you for all your encouragement, and I’m excited to continue my running journey.”
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In summary, Lisa Johnson’s story is one of resilience and determination, showcasing how she trained throughout her pregnancy with a goal of qualifying for the Olympics. Despite not advancing in the trials, her journey exemplifies the strength and dedication of athletes, inspiring many along the way.