Dr. Sarah Ruff was selected from more than 500 applicants nationwide to run the Boston Marathon

Sarah Ruff, MD, a physician at UNC Family Medicine at Southpoint, was selected by Hyland's, a maker of homeopathic medicines, from more than 500 applicants nationwide to run the Boston Marathon with a team of 18 health professionals. 

As a family physician, Dr. Ruff often sees families during some of the most important moments of their lives. “I am with them in the highest of highs and the lowest of lows,” she says. “I never take my responsibility as a healer for granted. I look at my job as more of a collaboration between me and my patients, me helping them to live amazing lives.”

Part of that, she explains, is to model health and fitness to them. “As a doctor, I want to set a good example to my patients of what true wellness can be,” she says. “Running has been a way that I have been able to model fitness and wellness for my patients at work. Running has given me the confidence to accomplish anything in my life.

So, when patients take steps to better their health, whether it’s starting a Couch to 5K program or seeing our dietician, I praise them and continue to encourage them to take small steps towards a healthier lifestyle.”

Dr. Ruff has been a runner for 23 years and has run ten marathons in that time. Now, preparing for her debut on the largest marathon stage in the country,

she’s reflecting on the path that led her here, and her chance to join a community of likeminded professionals. “With each marathon, I have grown in strength and knowledge,” she says. “Running the Boston Marathon has been one of my dreams and being able to run it as part of a team truly exceeds my expectations. 

I can't think of a better honor than to represent my profession of Healing at such a prestigious event as the Boston Marathon.”

posted Friday April 5th