A marathon runner preparing for her fourth New York City Marathon reflects on how the race has become a platform for mental health advocacy, emphasizing the importance of purpose and resilience in both athletic and personal challenges. She discusses the emotional weight of long-distance running and how it has shaped her perspective on mental well-being, particularly in high-pressure environments. The piece explores how endurance sports can serve as a metaphor for overcoming life’s obstacles, blending physical training with broader conversations about mental health. Readers interested in the intersection of athleticism, advocacy, and personal growth will find her insights compelling.


Fourth-time New York City Marathon runner Smita Rajgopal on mental health advocacy and purpose  amNewYork