Here at runladylike.com, Fridays are all about sharing the inspiring stories of fit people who motivate all of us to be better tomorrow than we were yesterday. My Friday FITspiration series profiles runners, triathletes and casual exercisers who are making choices every day to be as healthy as they can be – in both huge ways and through simple, small victories. Their stories are about the journey of transforming from ordinary to extraordinary each and every day.

“I run for my family and my health, because when I run, I am a better and healthier mom and wife.” ~Maureen O’Shay

Today, I’d like you to meet Maureen O’Shay. Maureen and I used to work together in Florida about 10 years ago before we both moved away – me to Atlanta and her to San Francisco, then Chicago and now Austin (whew!). This 33-year-old mom of 2 decided to run her first half marathon after being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2010. Check out my interview with this strong and inspiring runner.

How long have you been running, and what inspired you to start?
I ran my first race with my best friend in kindergarten, and ever since I have enjoyed running. I ran races whenever I could as a child and joined the track team in high school. I ran to stay fit in college but didn’t run my first 5K until I was 31 – just 4 months after my second child was born. I was inspired to start training for the 5K to lose the baby weight and show my girls that you can do anything if you put your mind to it.

Finish this sentence: I run because _________________.
It feels great. I love to run, and I love the way I feel after I run. It is my alone time and my time with friends. It is my time to de-stress.

What is the hardest challenge you have had to overcome? How did you do it?
Right now, it is my health. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in October 2010. Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract. My family and I relocated from Chicago to Austin in January 2011, just four months after I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. I’ve been managing it and it’s a trial and error process. People suffering from Crohn’s often experience loss of appetite, as well as feelings of low energy and fatigue. Since Crohn’s is a chronic disease, people like me will likely experience periods when the disease flares up and causes symptoms, followed by periods of remission when no symptoms are noticed at all. I’ve been in and out of the hospital a few times and that can slow down my training and progress. I take it one day at a time.

I’ve recently become involved with the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) and ran my first half marathon in Napa, California in July. I raised more than $5,000 for CCFA and am back this season as a mentor for the Las Vegas team. I really enjoy running with a team.

What running/racing accomplishment are you most proud of?
I have three: The first time I ran a 5K without stopping, when I PR’d in a 5K in the Texas heat, and, probably my biggest accomplishment, completing my first half marathon in 2:16 in Napa this past July while raising more than $5,000 for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start running or who thinks they can’t do it?
You can do it. It’s as simple as one step in front of the other. Find a friend to run with or find a place you love to run. Make a commitment to it, and you will be rewarded. It might also help to run with a training group. It keeps things interesting and keeps you accountable, which is really important in the beginning.

What is your running mantra(s)?
“Just keep swimming, just keep swimming” from “Finding Nemo.” I say that a lot on my long runs.

What running gear do you never run without?
I love my lululemon shorts, my SPI belt, body glide, my Nathan handheld bottle, my Sweaty Bands headband, and most importantly, my Mizuno Wave Rider shoes! I also have the best socks from Wrightsock.

What keeps you hydrated and fueled the best (us runners are always looking for the best tips and secrets on nutrition!)?
I just drink water all day long. You won’t find me ever leaving the house without at least 2 water bottles. I love COLD water, so I often have a small cooler in my car with an ice pack and a few drinks. I do enjoy Gatorade and Nuun. Nuun is great when you are on the go.

What’s on your iPod right now?
I have a half-marathon mix with everything from Lady Gaga to Coldplay to Gym Class Heroes. Thanks to my kids, I also have a solid mix of Fresh Beat Band and The Wiggles 😉

What are you most passionate about? What inspires you the most in life?
I’m most passionate about my family and my health. I run for them – because when I run I am a better and healthier mom and wife. I have more energy and I’m happier.

What is one thing most people would be surprised to know about you?
I don’t mind shoveling snow. Most people hate it. I actually enjoy the workout and appreciate the time outside, even when it is freezing! I also enjoy running in the snow.

What are your 3 favorite running blogs or Web sites?
rUnladylike, of course! I also follow Hal Higdon on Facebook. If I have a running question, I usually google it or ask my coach from CCFA.

What else should we know about you?
My next fitness goal is a sprint triathlon!

How can people connect with you?

• Twitter: @MaureenOShay
• Facebook.com/maureen.d.oshay
• www.maureenoshay.com

Thank you Maureen for sharing your story with us! The running accomplishments you’ve achieved despite your health challenges are incredible. You are such a great role model! If you or someone you know would be a great candidate for Friday FITspiration, email me at runladylike@gmail.com.

Maureen ran her first half marathon to benefit a charity. Have you ever run a race for charity? If so, what was the best part about it? What fundraising tips would you give other runners considering dedicating their miles to a cause they care about?