Erica Quensen

What fuels your passion for health and fitness?

Everyone can preach about the benefits of health and physical fitness for one's body, but the brain is the most important piece of the puzzle. Without discipline, training, and a positive attitude, the rest won't work. To me, health and fitness needs to encompass the whole being; physical, emotional and psychological, and by doing so, one becomes the best version of themselves at any given time. This then leads to a sense of well-being that is the pinnacle of good health.

What’s your favorite way to train or stay fit?

Although I enjoy many forms of exercise from dancing, Zumba, strength-training, cycling, kayaking, and swimming, my favorite way to stay fit is to run. The physical and mental training and discipline involved in running marathons is what got me through my cancer treatment. Training plans and treatments plans require the same focus and dedication and have similar results. Ringing the PR bell is great, but ringing the end of treatment bell is a feeling unlike any other.

What would you do with $20,000?

My bucket list includes running the 6 original World Major Marathons. In April, I will run my 4th Major, leaving Berlin and Boston as the final 2. If selected, I would use the funds to enter these remaining races as a charity runner, supporting cancer research and treatment organizations or patient support agencies.