Discover the inspiring journey of Henrissa Summers, a surgical technologist who overcame a rare autoimmune disorder and found healing through physical activity and running.
Henrissa Summers: A Journey of Healing and Resilience
( Credit to: Heraldtribune )
In 2014, Henrissa Summers, a surgical technologist at Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience in Philadelphia, experienced a sudden numbness and tingling sensation in her left shoulder and arm. Concerned about her symptoms, she sought medical attention and was diagnosed with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by low platelet levels.
Determined to improve her health and manage her condition, Summers embraced a low-sodium, low-potassium diet and made sure to stay hydrated. These lifestyle changes aimed to reduce her reliance on medication to combat ITP, which she inherited from her great-great grandparents on her father's side.
Recognizing the importance of physical activity, Summers started walking as a way to strengthen her weakened circulatory system. She gradually increased her distance, eventually incorporating running into her routine. Encouraged by her colleagues and fueled by her improving health, Summers started participating in races, from 5Ks to marathons, earning her the nickname 'the girl who runs in scrubs'.
Running became an essential part of Summers' healing process, especially after the devastating loss of her daughter to breast cancer. Despite the challenges posed by her ITP, she continued to participate in races, using them as a way to honor her daughter's memory.
In 2022, Summers and her husband relocated to Sarasota, Florida, where she continues to pursue her passion for running and participating in marathons. Her story serves as an inspiration to others, showing that it's never too late to make positive changes and overcome obstacles.
Embracing a Healthy Lifestyle
After her diagnosis of ITP, Henrissa Summers made a commitment to improve her health and manage her condition through lifestyle changes. She embraced a low-sodium, low-potassium diet and prioritized staying hydrated. These changes aimed to reduce her reliance on medication to combat ITP, which she inherited from her great-great grandparents on her father's side.
In addition to dietary adjustments, Summers recognized the importance of physical activity in strengthening her weakened circulatory system. She started with walking and gradually incorporated running into her routine. This dedication to a healthy lifestyle became a crucial part of her healing process.
Finding Solace and Healing in Running
For Henrissa Summers, running became more than just a form of physical exercise - it became a source of solace and healing. After the devastating loss of her daughter to breast cancer, Summers turned to running as a way to cope with her grief and honor her daughter's memory.
Despite the challenges posed by her ITP, Summers continued to participate in races, using them as a way to find strength and resilience. Each race served as a reminder of her daughter, with signs and symbols appearing along the way, giving her the motivation to keep going.
Running became an integral part of Summers' healing process, providing her with a sense of purpose and helping her navigate through the difficult journey of grief.
A Move to Sarasota and Pursuing Passion
In 2022, Henrissa Summers and her husband made a significant move to Sarasota, Florida. This relocation provided them with a change of scenery and an opportunity to start anew after the loss of their daughter. Summers continues to receive regular transfusions for her ITP but remains determined to pursue her passion for running.
Although she hasn't had the chance to participate in races since settling in Sarasota, Summers has already completed prestigious marathons like the New York City and Chicago marathons. She aims to run the Boston Marathon in the future, along with other endurance races and ultramarathons.
Summers' dedication to her physical fitness remains unwavering, as she continues to train diligently in her new neighborhood and explore the scenic trails of Wellen Park and the Legacy Trail. Her story continues to inspire those around her, showcasing the power of resilience and determination.
Conclusion
Henrissa Summers' journey of healing and resilience is a testament to the transformative power of self-care and determination. Through lifestyle changes, embracing physical activity, and participating in races, she has not only managed her autoimmune disorder but also found solace and healing after the loss of her daughter.
Her story serves as an inspiration to others, showing that it's never too late to make positive changes and overcome obstacles. Summers' unwavering dedication to her passion for running and her commitment to her health continue to inspire those around her.