Meet Tara: February's Most Inspiring Member

Tara Grill never saw herself as a runner. At the young age of 15, she was diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body, from skin to joints to organs. Sustained physical activity historically had not been an option for Tara.

Four years ago, when Port Washington (NY) Moms on the Run opened, she recalls being asked, “Can you run for just one minute?” That’s what it took for her to say ‘yes’ — and she’s never looked back.

Four years ago, when Port Washington (NY) Moms on the Run opened, she recalls being asked, “Can you run for just one minute?” That’s what it took for her to say ‘yes’ — and she’s never looked back.
 
One minute of jogging transformed into her first 5K, which, she admits, she was nervous to do for fear of not being able to finish. Today, she’s completed multiple 5Ks and Turkey Trot 5-milers. This past October, she finished the Divas Half Marathon on Long Island with her Moms on the Run group.
 
Port Washington owner Andrea Moleski, who nominated Tara, raves, “Tara exemplifies the mission of Moms on the Run. She started running with us just four years ago having never run before, and now she’s completed a half marathon. She is dedicated, hard working and inspires everyone she trains with.”
 
What’s even more impressive? Because of running and a healthier diet, she has been off all medications for lupus for the past 2.5 years.
 
“Moms on the Run has changed my life,” praised Tara, who turns 50 this year. “It’s a program that works for every individual, whether you can run a minute or 100 minutes. You’re not in competition with anyone. It’s so good for the mind, the body and the soul. And the camaraderie is amazing. I have made such wonderful friends through this group.”

Tara (pictured back row, 2nd from left) with her group from Port Washington Moms on the Run.

Tara with her husband, Marc, and son, William, after running the Turkey Trot 2017.