Meet Kayla: December's Most Inspiring Member

West Fargo Moms on the Run coach Kayla Hiedeman says her West Fargo group is the reason she is who she is today. "MOTR has been a blessing in my life! These ladies — and running — have gotten me through some of the toughest times of my life and MOTR has been there to celebrate the highlights."

In her nomination, West Fargo owner Eileen Pruis shares, "Kayla's ability to be encouraging and always smiling makes her a great inspiration to those she runs with." That's why Kayla is our most inspiring member for December. Join in on our conversation to find out a little more about Kayla.

---

Kayla (in red sunglasses) with some of her West Fargo teammates.

Q: When did you start with Moms on the Run? What motivated you to join?
A: By chance I stumbled across Moms on the Run in Spring of 2015. With two young kids at the time, I was looking to get into a fitness routine and meet new people. What keeps me coming back each year is most certainly the people. These ladies inspire me to be the best version of myself, encourage me and lift me up not only on the trail but off. Each one of them inspire me!

Q: Tell us a little about your running journey? Were you a runner before MOTR?
A: I ran track throughout high school but quit running for several years before joining Moms on the Run.

Q: I heard that you ran your first marathon this year. Describe that experience (what motivated you to sign up for that challenge, training highs and lows)
A: I did just complete my first marathon [Twin Cities Marathon in October]. And what a humbling experience it was. I did it not only for myself but to inspire others. I did it to teach my kids the sky is the limit and to chase their dreams. Lows: I got up at 4 am on Saturdays to get my long runs in. It's a mental challenge to stick with the training for months. It was hard for me not to get discouraged over the rough runs or let life get in the way. But running down Summit and crossing the finish made months of training, Saturdays that started before sunrise, and the tears and sweat all worth it. 

Q: This year, you became a coach for West Fargo. What do you like about coaching?
A: I absolutely love visiting with the ladies and getting to know new people. MOTR allows me  not only to get exercise in but to socialize at the same time. I love that! I love believing in others, pushing them and encouraging the ladies when they don't believe in themselves because that is exactly what MOTR has done for me.

Q: What advice would you give to other Moms on the Run, either those currently in the program or thinking about joining?
A: The first step is the hardest! With work, kids, life, just making time for yourselves and showing up is the hardest. 

Q: What else should we know about you? 
A: Husband, Mike; three kids: Liam (6), Braylee (4), Ellie (23 months). I am a nurse in cardiothoracic surgery, and in my spare time love the lake and gardening.

---