Meet Erin, July's MOTRstrong Most Inspiring Member

Erin Collins admits she has never maintained an exercise routine longer than three months — until she found Moms on the Run.
 
Two years ago, after having major back surgery, her doctor stressed how important it was for her to get active. She learned about MOTR through her friend — and now coach and nominator — Stephanie Veldhouse. She jumped right into the learn-to-run 5K training offered through St. Paul Highland Moms on the Run — and has never looked back.

Stephanie expresses, “Erin was a natural leader from the get-go. She is someone everyone wants to have in their group. Her attitude, willingness to work hard all the time, willingness to take it to the next step, always shows through. Every single class she arrives with a huge smile and often hugs, and leaves the exact same way.”
 
Since joining MOTR, Erin’s list of accomplishments include 5Ks, 10 milers, half marathons and Ragnar. She has learned she loves races and has registered to run the TC Loony (three races in one weekend) in the fall. She has faced several setbacks in the last six months, but says it’s now ingrained in her to be active and ask, “How soon can I run again?”
 
“What keeps me coming back is how strong it makes me feel, and that I’m setting a good example for my family,” noted Erin, whose family includes husband Jim and two kids, 6-year old Lidi and 5-year-old Carter. “I firmly believe I would not be able to do all of this without Moms on the Run. I’ve never been a part of a group of women who are genuinely supportive of each other like this group. The empowerment, motivation, and accountability are incredible.”
 
Stephanies concludes, “She is a fighter, an inspiration, and a strong mother runner.” Way to go, Erin!