JUNKO | Running 100 miles after cancer. "Life is short, you never know what will happen tomorrow."

Summary

Junko Kazukawa, a two-time cancer survivor, ultrarunner, and running coach from Japan, shares her inspiring journey of resilience and community. After overcoming the hardships of chemotherapy and mastectomy, she found solace and strength in ultrarunning, including the challenging Leadville 100. Despite her shy and introverted nature, Junko thrives in the supportive trail running community, where she's embraced and encouraged to keep pushing her limits. Now 61, she advocates for living life to the fullest, urging others to pursue their dreams without hesitation.

Takeaways

• 🏃‍♀️ Junko Kazukawa is an ultrarunner and running coach from Japan, living in the US, and a two-time cancer survivor.
• 💪 Despite facing the hardships of chemotherapy and mastectomy, Junko found strength and purpose in ultrarunning.
• 🌟 She was initially lonely and struggled with English, but set a goal to be independent and self-sufficient.
• 🏥 Junko's first cancer was breast cancer, which she treated with lumpectomy and radiation.
• 🔄 Four years later, she faced a second cancer, which led to a mastectomy and chemotherapy.
• 🏞️ Learning about the Leadville 100-mile race inspired her to take on the challenge, despite her health struggles.
• 👣 Junko has completed twenty to twenty-three hundred-mile races, including her 10th Leadville 100.
• 👵 At 61, she embraces her introverted nature but finds community and support in the running world.
• 🤝 The ultrarunning community is welcoming, regardless of age, background, or experience, offering a sense of belonging.
• ⏰ Junko encourages immediate action, emphasizing that life is short and one should pursue their goals without delay.
• 🌍 Her message is one of peace and community, urging people to find support and not feel alone in their endeavors.

Q & A

What challenges did Junko Kazukawa face when she first moved to a new country?

Junko faced challenges such as language barriers, loneliness, and difficulty in making friends due to her introverted personality.

How did Junko overcome her initial struggles with English?

Junko focused on understanding conversations and gradually improved her English by immersing herself in the language.

What was Junko's first major challenge after moving?

Junko's first major challenge was to save money independently without depending on anyone else.

How many times has Junko been diagnosed with cancer?

Junko has been diagnosed with cancer twice.

What type of cancer did Junko initially have and what treatments did she undergo?

Junko initially had breast cancer and underwent a lumpectomy and radiation therapy.

What was Junko's reaction to her second cancer diagnosis?

Junko was shocked and felt sad and discouraged upon her second cancer diagnosis.

What inspired Junko to take up ultrarunning?

Junko was inspired by the idea of people running 100 miles in Leadville and saw it as a good challenge to take up.

How many hundred-mile races has Junko completed so far?

Junko has completed twenty to twenty-three hundred-mile races so far.

What is the significance of the Leadville 100 run for Junko?

Leadville 100 is significant for Junko as it represents her resilience and determination, and it's a challenge she has participated in multiple times.

How does Junko feel about her age and her future in running?

Junko embraces her age and is optimistic about continuing to run, regardless of how old she gets, as long as she is able.

What message does Junko have for people who are facing challenges in life?

Junko's message is to not wait and to take action when you have an idea in mind, and to find a supportive community that can help and understand.