Meet Ietta Parrott(MM15646)

Meet Ietta Parrott(MM15646) – In all my years of living I’d never thought I’d run a marathon., I recently discovered the meaning behind a world major marathon race. When I ran Chicago, I had absolutely no clue as to why I was fundraising for a race which was just like all the other ones that did not have a fundraising page.
For over 20 years of my life, I struggled with drugs and alcohol, always looking for a quick fix and instant healing from the trauma and suffering of mental instability. I finally surrendered to the pain of mind-altering substances in 2018 and never looked back.
I began finding other ways to fulfill the void and enhance endorphins within my mind. I began using fitness and running as major coping skills. To gain more positive friendships, I joined Atlanta Track Club in training for Peachtree Road Race and engaged with like minded people that loved to run and train for racing events. The next training after that was Thanksgiving half marathon training, and next up was Publix Marathon Training. I initially trained for the half but was coerced by another member to train for the full marathon. As I made this choice, I was unaware the decision would be an eventful life changing moment.
I ran my first full marathon in March of 2020, which was one week before the world shutdown and COVID era began. After that first marathon I was hooked. After reading several articles and books on Marathon running and training, I made the decision I was going to run 12 marathons in 12 months in 12 states. The journey started in April of 2021. I was destined to prove I could do it, despite all the negative backlash I received from many people. After I completed the 12 marathons in 12 months journey, I was featured in a local news channel in Atlanta which praised my accomplishments.
People started asking me to run in different states with them and I met more people on my journey which escalated into seeking out running 50 marathons in 50 states.
I have currently, completed 52 marathons in 42 states within-less than 5 years of my marathon journey. I will continue the marathon path.
One thing I have learned from these experiences is If someone tells you that you cannot do something… do it twice and take pictures!! I have currently got over 52 pictures to prove it!! You can follow Ietta on Instagram at :@iparrott17

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