Meet Henry Ward

Today we’d like to introduce you to Henry Ward.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My name is Henry and I am an ultrarunner, and a recovering alcoholic and addict since November 17, 2008. With the grace of God, I have been sober since this life-changing date. I’ve been married to my beautiful wife for 14 years, and we have an adorable seven-year-old son. I have a full-time job as a chef, and I love to run. But this so-called normal life wasn’t always the case.

You see, for 22 years, I abused drugs and alcohol. I should be dead. I had numerous drug- and alcohol-related arrests. I almost lost my family. I almost lost my life. So the biggest challenge of my life came when I had to finally admit my addiction and seek help. I checked myself into a treatment center and have been sober ever since. When I discovered running in May 2013, my life drastically changed for the better once again. I am living proof that second chances matter. I want to help others receive treatment. I want to expose them to a whole new world of clarity and optimism. I’m passionate about fighting addiction and serving those living in recovery.

Birth of my running career:

I had asked a friend that we were going to be visiting if he was going to run an 8k race where he lived. He said he would run if I did. I said sign me up! I didn’t even know how far an 8k was…

I hated every second of the race and vowed never to run again. Every time a runner past me, I was more and more angry. I honestly wanted to trip, elbow all runners I saw. But when I finished, I received a glass medallion, and also had a feeling that I will never forget. A feeling of accomplishment, and happiness, that prompted me to seek out another race as we went back to the friend’s house. I signed up for a 5k, then a 4 miler the following weekend. Googled: running races Waltham ma = Race Around Waltham Series!

I loved how I felt during and after running. Well, sometimes not feeling it while running, The Runner’s high, and endorphin kick was like no other. I am thankful that I found running, and it has changed my life for the better. Not only does it keep me sober, it helps me feel balanced, and live life on life’s terms.

I have come a long way, but know that I still have a lot of work to do on my personal character defects. I strongly believe that anyone can change, if they want to. If I can change, anyone can!

Since then, I have ran over 30 marathons and a dozen ultramarathons. I have also done several fundraisers in which I have raised over $18,000. I have done a 12 hour treadmillathon, a 24 hour track run, a 24 hour run the middle of summer in Arizona, The Boston Marathon Quad (which is the Boston Marathon course 4 consecutive times, and official marathon being number 4) 2017, 2018, 2019, Phoenix marathon Quad 2019, and most recently (August 16, 17 2019) a 24 hot fundraiser for Anxiety and Depression Association of America.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Not as smooth as I wished! As an addict, I want things to happen immediately, and my way. I have to remember that it is not always what Henry wants, or when Henry wants them to happen. That is up to me. It is to God.

Trying to balance work, life, running, cross-training there leaves me very little time in the day. I often speak into my phone and write chapters to make good use of my time! I struggle with anxiety and depression. Sometimes I cannot get out of my own way, or get out of my own head. I am in therapy and constantly working on self- improvement. I will do legs while running I will grab some large rocks and do squats, deadlifts or swings. I find myself struggling with my attitude. I just wish I had more time! I simply do what I can, and do the best I can. All you can really do is give 100%.

We’d love to hear more about your work.
Well, we are in the beginning stages and so far I am almost 1/2 way through writing an autobiography on where I was, where I am, and how running has changed me, and all the good, bad and ugly of my recovery. I will be doing speaking engagements, and online training, and selling merchandise. Portions of all proceeds will go towards foundations that support recovery from addiction and mental health.

I hope to motivate, lead by example and show people how to live a healthy and productive life.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I hope to finish my book by the end of 2019, then travel and take on speaking engagements so I can share my story on a new level to reach larger audiences.

Contact Info:

• Address: 1155 West Grove Parkway 129
  Tempe, AZ 85283
• Website: www.willrunforcannolis.com
• Phone: 781-697-0542
• Email: henryward10@gmail.com

 

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