A Journey of Milestones: From 10K to Marathon Finish Line
For Dr. Seedat, the journey to the marathon began 18 months ago. “When I first started, I set a goal to complete a 10K race, which I did,” she shares. “I wanted to achieve more, so I set a goal for a half marathon, and then I completed three half marathons, improving my time by 30 minutes.” Driven by a spirit of achievement and personal growth, she set her sights on the ultimate challenge: a full marathon. Crossing the finish line was a powerful moment for her. “That finish line was incredible. With all the intense physical pain came the emotions of months of hard work, dedication, and, above all, mental strength. I was proud to be part of the 1% club.”
Balancing Personal Goals and Professional Commitments
As a family physician, Dr. Seedat is deeply committed to her patients’ well-being, and her role inspires her personal goals, such as marathon running. “I see a lot of chronic diseases, especially affecting younger populations, most of which are preventable,” she explains. “I have my own risk factors, and I know that a healthy lifestyle can make a difference. Being a physician means I need to set an example for what I preach.” The consistency and dedication she applies in her life provide a model for her patients, many of whom ask, “How do you keep fit and stay in shape?” Dr. Seedat hopes her journey shows that anyone can achieve their health goals through commitment and hard work.
Facing Challenges with Determination and Strength
Training for a marathon while managing a demanding career was not without challenges. Dr. Seedat describes the physical and mental endurance required: “I had to wake up every Saturday at 4:30 a.m. to run 30-plus kilometers. There were days when I fit in a 15K run after a 12-hour shift.” Despite the pain and exhaustion, she remained committed, motivated by the goal she set for herself. Even when she encountered injuries, she pushed through, drawing on her resilience and determination. “I had a goal to achieve,” she says simply, embodying the tenacity that defines her both as a runner and as a physician.
The Power of Community Support
Throughout her marathon journey, Dr. Seedat was supported by her colleagues, patients, and the running community. “My work colleagues were so supportive. They brought me pain gels and carbs to keep me going!” she laughs. Her patients noticed her dedication, often commenting, “You look stronger” or “Tell me what you’re doing; I want to do this too.” The encouragement from her community served as a powerful motivator. “The running community is on another level,” she says. “They encouraged me to go out in the rain, and the kudos and words of support from other runners were incredibly motivating.”
Bringing Opportunities to Patients Through Clinical Research
In addition to her work as a physician, Dr. Seedat plays a key role as a sub-investigator at A&A Clinical Research, where she helps make clinical trials accessible to patients. “Clinical trials provide patients with opportunities they may not have access to otherwise, whether that’s due to availability or affordability,” she says. This work aligns closely with her commitment to patient care, allowing her to provide new avenues of support to those who may have exhausted other options.
Lessons in Resilience: A Marathon Mindset for Life and Medicine
Completing a marathon has reinforced Dr. Seedat’s understanding of resilience and mental strength. “More than anything, I’ve learned to be both mentally and physically strong. With dedication and perseverance, no matter how challenging the journey, the rewards are phenomenal.” This lesson in resilience influences her work as a physician, where she encourages her patients to trust in themselves and stay committed to their goals. “I’ve learned that big goals aren’t achieved easily, but the rewards are worth it.”
Inspiring Others to Embrace Health and Perseverance
Dr. Seedat hopes her journey will inspire others, whether they are patients, colleagues, or members of the running community. “I believe that working hard produces results. In 18 months, I went from not running at all to completing a marathon and three half marathons. I hope others can see that anything is achievable if you put your mind to it and believe in yourself, especially when the going gets tough.” Her advice is simple: “Don’t dream of winning; train for it.”
Through her journey, Dr. Seedat exemplifies the power of resilience, community support, and a commitment to health. Her story serves as an inspiration to those she encounters—whether in her medical practice, at A&A Clinical Research, or on the marathon course.
