Dubai: Within 70 days of undergoing five coronary grafts, Alfonso Ponio, successfully completed the 10km run at Dubai Marathon on Friday.
A commendable feat, particularly considering the fact that he was unable to walk even 50 metres in November.
Not only did he complete the run with ease, he was ranked fifth in the 10km men’s segment, proving that with strong will and hard work a person can overcome any adversity.
“It’s not as difficult as people might think and I wanted to prove that. I wanted to set an example for people with heart ailments and other diseases to take heart and believe that they get better,” said Ponio, who is a driver.
The 48-year-old Filipino national was determined to turn his life around after undergoing the bypass surgery in November last year.
“When I walked out of hospital a few days after the surgery I made a promise to myself that I will go to any length to stay health and I have seen that with a little discipline and determination and under the right guidance anything can be achieved,” he added.
Two months ago Ponio had severe pain in his chest and was unable to walk, although he was not obese.
“I feel young once again and I understand that taking care of one’s health is very important, you may not look unhealthy from the outside but you never know what’s happening in your body until it is too late. So I have decided that I will do my best to stay healthy and inspire others to adopt a health lifestyle,” he said.
Ponio, who received a medal for completing his 10Km run, aims to participate in more health activities in the future.
