The 2014 Cincinnati Panerathon last Sunday, September 21, became even more special as one of its participants, Austin Porter, came running across the finish line wearing a red ball cap backward. He didn't win titles, but he sure got the crowd inspired as he went on to run his first 5K despite suffering from cerebral palsy.
When Austin was born, he developed a stroke, which affected his brain and muscle coordination. He grew up with significant problem in flexibility and strength on his right side. For the last 17 years of his life, he sought professional help from the city's children hospital. Although he's often encouraged to move around, his therapy mentioned that he seemed to be less interested.
Then came the fitness test last spring in his school where he is currently enrolled as a junior. The 17-year-old ended up disappointed trying to run a mile then getting sick afterward because of that. Hence, he committed himself to running a 5K race and chose the Cincinnati Panerathon.
Since he made his decision, he learned to put in more hours in therapy and practice. He spent more time on the treadmill and performed more calisthenics like jumping or encircling cones with only a one good foot.
He ran in different courses and in many different times. He traversed steep inclines on hills or followed the paths around the medical center where he got to meet other patients. He ran with his therapist and CP clinic volunteers, as well as other runners.
While running, he'd talk about topics that interested him such as zombies and Halo (a video game) to compel him to run some more.
With his excellent focus and determination, as well as support from his family, friends, and therapists, he can already run 10-minute mile more effortlessly than people with no disabilities. Austin, on his part, felt that running boosted his confidence and allowed him to do more things like going to malls, which he had trouble walking around to before.
