Corporate Fitness and Active Aging

Diane Miller

Recent Posts by Diane Miller:

NIFS Collects Toys for Tots Donations

This blog was written by Diane Miller. Meet our blogging fitness specialists at the NIFS website.

toys for tots, christmas giving, spiritual wellnessDecember is all about giving―not only to our loved ones, but also to others in our community. As we celebrate and come together, it is important to remember those who are less fortunate. If you are looking to give or start a new tradition with your family, think about donating to your local charity. Donating time, food, money, or even toys this holiday season is a great way to bring your family together and help others in need.

Families that struggle to meet basic needs have a hard time giving gifts to their children during the holiday season. Each year the U.S. Marine Corps heads up the local Toys for Tots event to collect gifts for Indianapolis children. Thousands of toys were donated last year; and still some families were left without.

NIFS is doing its part by hosting a drop box in our first-floor lobby. Bring in new (unwrapped) toys before December 15 and help give a child a Christmas filled with memories and joy. For more information, visit Toys for Tots.

December is also Safe Toys and Gifts month. Last year over 250,000 toy-related injuries occurred in the United States. Of those, most of the injuries occurred in children under age 15. As you buy toys for your family and Toys for Tots, visit the Prevent Blindness America website for more tips on how to have a safe holiday for our children.

Have a happy and enjoyable holiday season!

Topics: NIFS

NIFS Employee Among Jingle Bell Runners for Arthritis Research

This blog was written by Diane Miller. Meet our blogging fitness specialists at the NIFS website.

jingle bell run, arthritis, NIFSIf you’re looking for a run/walk event this December, why not try the Jingle Bell Run? The Arthritis Foundation will host its 23rd annual event this year in downtown Indianapolis on December 10. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities gather together for this 5K (3-mile) event dressed in crazy costumes and ready to support the foundation as it searches for a cure for arthritis.

As someone living with arthritis, I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of this event. Having had back pain for nearly 10 years, I was finally diagnosed in 2010 with osteoarthritis (a degenerative joint disease). With at least five vertebrae affected, it has made daily living more difficult. My love of running and racing in events has been well rewarding but has taken a toll on my body.

After weeks of tests and a doctor telling me not to race, I decided that I wanted to compete in my biggest race to date, a half-Ironman. Seven hours into the race, I finally crossed that finish line and was overwhelmed by one of the best feelings I’ve ever experienced. Tears of joy ran down my face as I completed the unthinkable. Unfortunately, days after the race, I paid the price; the back pain was terrible.

I hope that one day we can find a cure, not only for myself but for other generations so they can reach their ultimate goals and live pain free. I am happy to be a part of the Jingle Bell Run and can’t wait to wear my best holiday-inspired costume. See you at the start line at 9 a.m.!

Topics: winter fitness triathlon running arthritis