Take a moment and think about what inspires you. What is it that gets you up in the morning? What gets you out of bed on those days when it would be easier to crawl back under the covers and wish the world away? What keeps you going when you’re stressed or scared? And finally, what gives you the strength to keep going when everything is telling you that you’re too exhausted to take another step?
As a long distance runner, I’ve encountered moments when my body was in shut-down mode and physically, I was at my limit. But, somehow in those moments, I was able to dig deep and finish that training run or race and look back at that accomplishment with pride. Often, the encouragement of my dedicated teammates helped me concur the hurdle.
As much as I am proud of my small victories, it’s nothing like what U.S. Army Captain Sarah Cudd of Public Health Command, Fort Knox accomplished. She was one of 46 candidates to attempt to earn the Expert Field Medical Badge, an honor given to military medical personnel who complete a set of grueling written and physical tests. Out of 46, Cudd was the only one in her group to complete the tests.
The final test is a 12-mile hike to be completed in under three hours, carrying a 70-pound pack and rifle. With only minutes to go, Cudd collapsed at the finish line. Her body, after being pushed to its absolute limit, could no longer go on. In that moment, Cudd made the choice to defy her body. With plenty of encouragement from her fellow soldiers, Cudd found the strength to get to her feet and finish the hike within the allowed time. And yes, I cried when she made it.
Click on the link below to watch Sarah complete her test! Please like and share this inspirational story with everyone that needs a bit of encouragement.
