A 5K Race on Crutches
Yesterday, Nestle Milo hosted their annual five-kilometer race through the city — the Milothon. Out of the near 10,000 youth that participated in the event, the winner, in my eyes, was a 17-year-old in crutches who finished the race strong.
What instantly captivated me about Christian was his cheerfulness and warmth, even as he told me about the naysayers along the route. He kept on keeping on despite those who pitied and ridiculed him along the path. They told him that this race wasn’t for people like him. Little did they know that the Milothon hasn’t been his only event. He also finished the Andes Marathon — yes, the full 26.2 miles — even though it took him double the time that it takes a typical runner.
Nevertheless, you don’t see Christian asking for pity. He says that he wants to study medicine and I think Huancayo needs more doctors who have his strength, compassion and humility.
Feel Christian’s warmth yourself in this short message he wanted to share with all of you:
How have you shown enthusiasm and perseverance against a recent obstacle in your life?
Tags: challenges, christian milotón, huancayo marathon, huancayo running, learning, milotón huancayo, overcome obstacles, peru running, running
Dr. Bob Clarke
What a courageous young man! His story is an inspiration.
But his message goes much further than just competing in a marathon being disabled. His message is one of hope and pride. It's also one of moving consistently towards your goals when everyone else is telling you that you can't do it.
We can all learn a thing or two from Christian!
Thanks for sharing this, Sam!
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Samantha Bangayan
Bob, you're so right. Hope and pride are exactly what Christian exudes! Hope clenches my heart and pride makes me smile from ear to ear.
I know I've definitely learned tons of Christian! Thanks so much for appreciating his message too, Bob! =)
RAAckerman, PhD, EA
Thanks for the inspiration.
Somehow seeing this is more inspiring to me than watching the "special" races that are held. We need them, too- but the world does not truly make accommodation for all. Competitors like Christian truly make a larger impact on the world. (I felt that when I competed in a swim meet using plastic dry-cleaning bags (about 4, with duct tape) over my arm cast decades ago- when I really could swim, of course.)
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Samantha Bangayan
Roy, your comment really meant a lot to me. It's exactly what I couldn't express. I don't know why, but meeting Christian made a difference in my life even though it felt overly simplistic as I wrote the blog post.
I'm inspired by your tidbit about competing in a swim meet with plastic bags on your arm. We really do need those moments to help us realize how much we *do* have already.
Roy, thank you so much for always using words so beautifully to express what I'm not able to!
Steve Nicholas
Great post, Samantha! It is truly inspiring to about this young man who didn't let anything get in the way of his goals and dreams. Just one thing, though: as anyone who has run a marathon can tell you, it's actually 26.2 miles, not 26. Believe me, when you get to the end, those two-tenths of a mile matter a lot 😉
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Samantha Bangayan
*Phew!* Thanks so much for reminding me, Steve! I added the 0.2 miles right away and I'm Christian would be on your side about how 0.2 miles matter! =P I've never run a marathon myself, but I have done more than a few 10k's, which were tough enough for me. =P
Thanks so much for stopping by to comment, Steve! Christian's persistence was what hit me the strongest too. =)
mattoftheworld
This is really incredible Samantha. I think even more so because we live in Peru and see people every day with different disabilities who have resorted to begging. The fact that this guy takes care of himself and not only that, he runs a 5k, and a half marathon…geez, that is incredible. So refreshing to see someone that is not going to let anyone hold him down.
You are definitely right, not just Huancayo but all of Peru and the World would surely benefit from his kind of strength and perseverance. I truly hopes he pursues his dream to study medicine, I'm sure nothing can stop him.
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Samantha Bangayan
Yes! I think that's exactly why Christian really stood out to me. It has almost become commonplace for people with disabilities to end up in the streets, as if that's their only option.
I have a feeling that this kid is going to make it. And if he can, then you and I can too. =)
Thanks so much for stopping by, Matt! =) I was hoping this story would inspire you! =)
Tosin
Hey Sam,
Christian shows with his story that attitude is everything. While many engage in pity-party, he chooses to put his destiny in his hands and move forward in the direction of his dream.
I’m left wondering why anyone will mock and ridicule Christian while running. That’s so sad.
It’s so important not to listen to the naysayers who have nothing useful to offer.
Thanks for sharing this post, Sam! 🙂
Tosin
Samantha Bangayan
So true, Tosin! I love how you put it — people engage in "pity-parties." Boo-hoo, my life sucked today. Somehow, I can't imagine Christian boo-hoo-ing himself. It sounds like he makes his life happen for him! =)
Isn't it ridiculous that people would still ridicule him? If I had been there seeing him race, I would have singled him out to cheer him on!!
Thanks so much for relating to this post, Tosin! =)
@wisewellwoman
What a joy it is to see literally another part of the world through your compassionate eyes, Samantha.
Not only is Christian's story a compelling testimony for the power of perserverance, but your telling it, speaks volumes about who you are in the world.
I consider myself blessed to have found your blog and privileged to enjoy your wonderful gift of story telling.
Sending you many blessings-
Nanette
My recent post Life Lessons I’ve Learned From My Mother
Samantha Bangayan
Thank you so much for your kind words, Nanette. I was a little dissatisfied with how this post came out because I felt like I couldn't put Christian's story into words properly — how can you describe how much someone means to you in words? It's such a challenge! So, I'm *really* grateful that you feel his story came out just right.
You inspire me heaps too, Nanette. So glad we're in touch. =)
Deeone
Hiya Samantha!
This truly was a very touching and delightful story! Christian is a perfect example why we should never give up on what truly matters to us. Today, has been a difficult journey for me, and reading your entry and watching Christian has reached the hills of Georgia, he's an inspiration that speaks his story through the actions that he takes. When other's would've thrown in the towel because they had reached a point of exhaustion or the race seemed to long; Christian stepped up to the starting line and finished. Truly Inspiring! Thanks for posting! 🙂
Samantha Bangayan
I am *so* glad to hear this, Deeone! In fact, after I shot the video, I *knew* that I would be watching it every time I came to a rough moment in my life. There's something about his sincerity, humility and warmth that's so inspirational and motivational.
I love how you say it Deeone: "we should never give up on what truly matters to us." And I love how you and I continually remind ourselves of that. =) Thanks so much! =)
Deeone
Thank you as well Samantha, you may never truly know how inspiring you are to me. I truly hope the words that I send you express the spirit in which it is sent. 😉 .
Vinny T.
Truly inspirational! The message, here, is that determination, will power, and a positive attitude can often allow a physically challenged individual to excel over those who do not face such disadvantages. Thanks for introducing the world to Nestle Milo.He's clearly a superior human being, and we can all learn and profit from his example.
Samantha Bangayan
I love how you put it, Vinny — "a superior human being." Imagine if we were all *superior* as such! =) Whenever I face tough times, I will surely remember his determination, will power and positivity!!
I'm so glad you found Christian inspirational too! =)
Abe Palmer
I loved this story, it is real and happens every moment of every day somewhere. Nothing bothers me more than to witness Naysayers in action. I can testify having been faced with Christians situation in life that it is the Naysayers that gave me the drive to overcome the obsticals I was faced with. Although I have no room for Naysayers, I am thankful that they were there to make me mentally healthy so I could analize my straingths and manage my inabilities. I am certain that Christian has mastered his mental ability to overcome his phyical inability.
I love his enduring spirit and wish Christian well on the carreer path he has chosen. He is wonderful example and mentor for everyone to look up to. Now Samantha, here is a challange I give to you!!! With this post how can you use your influance to convince Nestle Milo to grant Christian a schalorship to get him on his way through medical school. What a wonderful conclution to such an inspirational story.
Keep up the good work Samantha.
Samantha Bangayan
Isn't that true? Christian never said it that way, but I wonder if the naysayers became motivation in that way too — the "I'll prove them wrong" kind of motivation! How beautiful that you were able to turn a negative into a positive. I love how you frame the challenges into a way to make us "mentally healthy." Life was never supposed to be *easy* and you're so right that Christian's strength is his mental strength!
That's a great idea, Abe! In fact, we were even talking about having the dance groups hold a charity performance. I don't know how much influence I have here, but I can definitely try. =) Thank *you* for the motivation, Abe! =)
Janet Callaway
Samantha, aloha. Thx so much for sharing this wonderful story with us. Christian is wrong because he did "win" and the prize is much bigger than any individual race. Christian knows what he can do if he keeps on going. What a great lesson to learn–at any age.
Samantha, I so enjoy experiencing these slices of life in Peru through your eyes. Reading your perspective enriches the story for me.
Best wishes for a magnificent day. Aloha. Janet
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Samantha Bangayan
Janet, I *so* love how you framed it and I wish you could have been there to say it to Christian himself: "You *did* win!" You're so right that his prize is one that goes beyond pride and glory — it's about an unending attitude toward life that's going to take him places!
Thanks so much for giving me a different perspective on this, Janet! =)
Nyxzie
This was fabulous Samantha! . . . I love reading things like this! What an amazingly inspirational young man 🙂
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Samantha Bangayan
Thank you *so* much, Dayle! Same here! Somehow, a local story seems to hit closer to home and I just had to share it. =) I'm ecstatic that the story could inspire you too!
Diana Simon
Hi Sam,
Thanks for writing up this post and Christian is such an inspiration. I think it is a wonderful reminder that it is up to us to make the most of what we have. Instead of focusing on how different we are or what we lack, we need to learn to make the most of life with the resources we have on hand.
Christian is an example of that – living life to the fullest!
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Samantha Bangayan
Exactly that, Diana! It's up to us! The complaints are a waste of time when we could be using that time to forge through and make positive changes. You're so right that it's where we focus our thoughts and our energy. This is why you're such a great coach! =)
Thanks so much for your take on this, Diana! =) I hope you're living your life to the fullest too! =)
Devesh
What an awesome post Samantha. Very Inspiring. Thanks for taking time to write this post.
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Samantha Bangayan
Thank *you* for taking the time to comment, Dev! I'm so happy his story could be inspirational for you too. =)
Gustavo
These examples of bravery are rather common
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Leanne Chesser
So inspiring! I love stories like this! He's an amazing young man and it shows the power of total focus on the end goal (and passion for it) and persevering no matter what. I can't believe that people were ridiculing him along the way . . .
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Samantha Bangayan
Same here, Leanne! I feel like I always need a little more inspiration in my life and this local story hit so close to home. =) I absolutely love what you took from Christian's story — "the power of total focus…passion…persevering." =)
I know! I couldn't believe that people would dare to mock him while seeing his pure effort. Maybe they wanted to continue to ignore what they weren't achieving in their own lives. =S
Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts, Leanne! =)
Tambre Leighn
Beautiful story and post, Samantha. You are a great set of eyes to have capturing the lives and stories of others who are overcoming their challenges even when faced with incredible difficult economics. Christian somehow naturally has chosen to not let his circumstances stop him in going after his goals…or the voices of naysayers. Truly an inspiration.
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Samantha Bangayan
Thanks so much for stopping by, Tambre! Isn't it beautiful to see how people can still naturally be resilient in this world? I didn't realize it at the time, but now I think that that's exactly why he was so inspirational to me. It just goes to show that you don't need much in terms of money or material things in order to be a *great* human being.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Tambre. I try to keep my eyes peeled for stories around here. =) The inspirational ones are my favorites!
Stella Anokam
Wow Sam – this is such a sweet and inspiring story. Christian is a brave guy – it only takes bravery to ignore what the people around him are saying. Those didn't deter him.
I hope he gets help to fulfill his ambition to go to college.
Stella
Samantha Bangayan
Yes! You're the first one to have said it as such, Stella — bravery!! =) It's the difference between self-pity and making life happen for ourselves! =) With Christian's bravery, I don't doubt that he's going to make it in life. =)
Thank you *so* much for stopping by and sharing your thoughts, Stella! I so love our growing friendship. =)
Justin | Mazzastick
Hi Samantha,
I love hearing inspirational stories like this because many of us have resorted to using stories about why we can't do something in life.
It is true that the only obstacles to success are in our minds.
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Samantha Bangayan
I never thought about it that way, Justin! You're right that we make our own stories and a lot of our self-talk can be really negative, even if it's unconscious. That's why I like to fill my life with inspirational ones. =) Great point!
Jon
Samantha,
Wonderful. Look at how he spoke with spirits high even though he didn't win. He was happy to compete and prove he would reach the goal. Even in the face of adversity.
It's a lesson to us all to have a little faith! People like Christian aren't looking for handouts, freebies, pity or any of that stuff. He knows we're equals.
Jon
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Samantha Bangayan
Exactly! That's exactly what hit me, Jon! He was in such a good mood and beaming even as he told me of the naysayers along the way. That's the kind of attitude I want to have. Rather than be offended and defensive, I want to smile and focus on the achievements! =)
You totally got me with this one, Jon! =) Thanks for relating to the post! =)
Writing 4 Effect
So glad you shared this article, Sam. What an inspiration. I loved his enthusiasm as he expressed his determination in the video. No matter what we do in life or what we look like, when we decide to go beyond the norm, we will be mocked and ridiculed by some. To him, though, he achieved a goal most others on crutches wouldn't even attempt. What a great example of courage and tenacity. I love it that the Huancayo dance group let him be in a picture with them. I bet it made his day. With his determination, I don't doubt that he will become a physician one day.
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Samantha Bangayan
That's what surprised me the most, Sherry! I couldn't believe he could be so enthusiastic, even as he told me about the people telling him he should stop. He just brushed them off and kept at it! =) That's the kind of attitude I want to have — "Well, that's your opinion, but I'm going to keep going." =)
You used some powerful words, Sherry — courage, tenacity and determination. =) This is what I want to learn from Christian's story. Thanks so much for finding the words I couldn't find! =)
@jbaranggan
wow! how inspiring especially when a lot of people just quit because of small hurdles in life.
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Samantha Bangayan
Exactly, Jun! Isn't it crazy that we're used to just turning around when times get tough? I hope that the next time I face a closed door, I remember Christian's story and feel motivated to keep chugging along toward my goals. =)
Thanks so much for stopping by, Jun! =)
Ryan Biddulph
Hi Sam,
I eat this stuff up. Christian is a warrior.
People like this drive me to do what I do. Seeing the obstacles others overcome inspires me to get more on purpose, to be lighter about my work, to create the way I know I can create while touching the lives of as many people as possible.
Thanks for sharing the inspiration with us Sam.
Ryan
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Samantha Bangayan
How powerful, Ryan! A warrior indeed! =) That's exactly what happened to me too — after talking to Christian, I was inspired to clarify my goals and take a more lighthearted approach to life as I make things happen for me. =)
I'm so glad his story could inspire you too, Ryan! =)
Marcus Baker
Hi Sam,
Another inspiring story that proves that anything is possible when you believe in yourself and have vision.
I have no doubt that Christian will make more of his life than resorting to begging.
Taking the harder road in life is courageous, challenging but totally worthwhile which is what Chistian's soul obviously remembers.
When we know that we are worthy regardless then there is nothing we can't be.
~Marcus
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Samantha Bangayan
Wow, Marcus! Your comment was filled with various inspirational Marcus quotes. =) You are a quote machine! =)
I will especially be remembering what you said at the end: "When we know that we are worthy regardless, then there is nothing we can't be." That's exactly what Christian made me feel — that anything is possible for me! But it all starts with me and believing in myself.
Thanks so much for your wisdom, Marcus. =)
Lou Barba
Hi Samantha,
I like the part about finishing the marathon, although it took him twice as long. How many times do people give up on something because they think they have to get done in a certain amount of time?! I really like your blog, Samantha. You are posting some engaging articles.
Lou Baraba
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Samantha Bangayan
I know, Lou! That was the most amazing part for me too — I couldn't believe he finished the Andes marathon! I can barely breathe when I run here at such high altitude. =P
I especially like what you said about people giving up when they think that they set time limits for themselves. I've had my moments of "I'm just going to try until…" — what's amazing is when people keep on going *no matter what!*
Thanks so much sharing your insights, Lou! =) And for your kind words. =) I'm so glad we're in touch!
patrick
Great story. He is a true inspiration, and thank you for sharing his story. It's posts like these that make us appreciate what we have in life and look toward opportunities instead of telling ourselves we can't do it. Love your site. Keep up the great work. 🙂
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Samantha Bangayan
Patrick, thanks so much for taking the time to comment! =) I'm so glad Christian's story was inspirational for you too! That's exactly what happened to me after I met Christian — I mentally made a list of everything I'm grateful for that I haven't appreciated nearly enough.
You've been so duber encouraging, Patrick! I hope to support your blog in the same way! =)
Samantha Bangayan
Yes! Oliver, you really hit the mark when you mention "how poorly we deal with our problems." That's exactly what I thought when I heard Christian's story and watched his video again. If he can live with such courage, then how can I complain about the little nothings in my life?
Thanks so much for putting into words what I wasn't able to say, Oliver! =) A short, yet powerful comment. =)
Allie
Samantha,
After that story I am ashamed to mention my obstacles, they are so trivial. What I can say is that, yet again, you and your stories have inspired me to be a better person.
Just about an hour ago I lost it at my kid's school parking lot because some woman (I want to call her something that rhymes with witch) got angry with me for blocking the route through the parking lot and it was not my fault. People were parked everywhere and I had nowhere to go. I was not heading the wrong way or anything, completely legal. She got really angry in her car and started yelling at me. So I flipped her off and told her "f*ck you"!! She continued to berate me as I parked and I did blow her off.
She made me so angry! I had nowhere to go, she probably had a bad day, saw all the cars, I was in her way and she yelled at me. I am ashamed for loosing it. OH! Why? Because it was unnecessary in the scheme of things. Here is a boy being taunted that he can't do the run yet he did and with a smile. And here I am loosing it over someone insignificant.
Perspective. I need more.
~Allie
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Samantha Bangayan
Allie, thank you so much for stopping by! I'm so ecstatic that you feel my posts are inspirational! =) When I met Christian on Sunday, I just knew that I had to share his story after the impact it had on me. I know that there are hundreds of stories like this worldwide, but I think every single one of them is worth remembering and sharing. =)
Allie, I loved your story because it really showed your humility and it's something that could happen to any of us — sometimes, everything wrong goes into the pot! I've definitely had my moments where my instant reaction is feeling offended and acting defensive. If only we had Christian's lightheartedness in those moments eh?
I hope I remember Christian's story the next time I come against a tough moment or a naysayer. Facing it all with positivity somehow makes life a little smoother. =)
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and your story, Allie. You've sent me a good reminder to have more perspective in life. =)
Samantha Bangayan
So true, Gustavo! We need the reminders often, maybe even daily, because it's *so* easy to slip back into the "I can't anymore" attitude. I love how you put it — it's really human nature for us to rise up to the challenge. I hope to never, ever lose that vigor again!
Gustavo, you are too kind. I often get frustrated with my writing because I feel that it's subpar and isn't exactly expressing what I want to say, but your compliment has really lifted my spirits. =) Thank you!!
Samantha Bangayan
Yes! You bring up a really good point, Adrienne! There are two fights we have — giving up (against ourselves) and giving in (against others). I don't know how Christian does it, but he powers through all of that with a smile! =)
I'm *so* glad that his story could be inspirational to you too, Adrienne! =) I know that I'll be watching Christian's video if I ever need a little extra push to reach my goals! =)
@The3DRenderer
Hi, Sam.
What an inspiring read! Thanks for sharing this with us.
It is the people much like this young boy who perseveres without complaining that we must look up to when we are faced with problems we think are too big for us to handle. If these persons with disabilities are able to face life without pitying themselves, why can't we able-bodied people do it? This young boy throws an amazing lesson for us that we should always keep in mind.
Again, thanks for sharing this, Sam. 🙂 Enjoy the rest of your week.
Kim
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Samantha Bangayan
You are so welcome, Kim! When I met Christian, I just knew that his story had to be shared. =)
That's exactly what I noticed too! There were no complaints from him and he was always smiling and cheerful. =) It really inspired me to be more grateful for what I have and I'm so glad that his story touched you too. =) Hugs to you, Kim!