LyLy Hin: I feel blessed to share my love of running

Gearing up for the 4th annual Achilles Connecticut Hope & Possibility® races presented by Cigna, we’re talking to athletes and guides to share stories about who they are and what brought them to our Chapter. Enjoy!

Behind the scenes, LyLy is a volunteer extraordinaire – a guide for several years, whose lightning attention to detail, coupled with a big heart for our mission and courageous athletes, keeps us organized in her new role this year as Membership Coordinator. In this interview, she shares how and why she came to us, her favorite eats (which you aren’t likely to find in any post-race food tent!), and some other personal goodies.

How did you get involved with Achilles Connecticut?

I saw Achilles at some races and went online to learn more about the group. After reading about the organization, I was very excited to learn they had a Connecticut Chapter. I joined as a guide a few years ago. I wanted to do more for the Chapter, so I asked if there was anything else I could do to help. In the past year I have joined the leadership team as Membership Coordinator.

Why are you running in the Hope & Possibility® races?

I run H&P because it is a race that helps bring people of all abilities together, to show that through community, there is Hope & Possibility for everyone!

What’s one thing that you’ve never done, but would like to try?

I love to travel. I would love to go to Machu Picchu to hike and explore the ruins.  

If you had to describe yourself as an animal, which one would it be?

A deer. Deer have many sides – a deer is cautious, adventurous, and protective. But deer have great individuality, trusting in their instincts and themselves.

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

My mother’s steamed rice noodle rolls (cheung fun). I have attempted to make them myself and, needless to say, they were not the same.  

What was your favorite subject in school and why?

Math – there is a process to it. If you follow the right steps, you eventually get to the answer.  I liked the structure of it. I know, I was very popular in school.  ?

Who is your hero?

The athletes of Achilles, bar none. The courage the athletes have to put their trust in us as their guides is amazing and very humbling to me. Participating with Achilles has made me realize how much I take for granted. I feel very honored that I can help someone do something they love doing.  

Anything else you’d like to add?

I run because there are those out there that cannot stand or walk, let alone run. I feel very blessed that I can share my love of running with those that would not normally have been able to participate, without the assistance of Achilles.

The 4th annual Achilles Connecticut Hope & Possibility® races presented by Cigna take place on July 21 in Bloomfield, Connecticut. To register, visit https://www.hartfordmarathon.com/achilles-ct-hope-possibility-run/

To make a donation to Achilles Connecticut to help offset the costs of disabled athletes’ race registration fees and equipment, visit http://achillesct.everydayhero.do/