4 days ago
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WHILE many athletes of long-distance running find motivation in their pursuit of thrill or personal bests, Gerich Dijamco holds on to his love for his daughter.
In 2018, Keira, who was 4 years old then, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia — a form of cancer of the blood and bone marrow.
RUN FOR A CAUSE Takbo Tarlaqueño co-founder Gerich Dijamco has accomplished 14 Ultramarathons, five marathons, and two half marathons including. PHOTO FROM TAKBO TARLAQUEÑO
In the midst of uncertainty, hopelessness and sleepless nights, Dijamco found solace in running. The rhythmic pounding of his feet on the pavement allowed him to channel his frustration, offering temporary relief from the constant pain.
Driven by his desire to honor Keira's strength, he boldly joined his first race of 16 kilometers. A month later, this newcomer entered an Ultramarathon — a daunting 60 kilometers from Pampanga to Subic.
"The pain I felt during the run was nothing compared to what my daughter goes through just to stay alive," he explains. "Keira fights every day for her life, so I knew I could push through any distance."
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Today, Keira is in remission, and Dijamco continues to run as a way to inspire others.
As a co-founder and race director of Takbo Tarlaqueño, Dijamco has organized its first Tarlac Half Marathon — open to the whole family, on April 13 at the Tarlac Recreational Park, San Jose.
For registration details, visit Takbo Tarlaqueno's Facebook page.
