OUDTSHOORN NEWS - The 30th Meiringspoort Half Marathon this past weekend was not just another race for 53-year-old Zoë Merson-Davies - it was a powerful testament to her resilience and determination.
Now a Mossel Bay resident, Merson-Davies moved from Johannesburg just 10 months ago, having faced a life-altering diagnosis of bone marrow failure in 2019. She underwent a stem cell transplant in September 2021 and, 17 months ago, survived a massive stroke. Though her stroke left no major visible complications, Zoë admitted, "My legs don't run like they used to." But that didn't stop her from pushing through and completing her fifth marathon.
Zoë began running marathons in her 40s for health reasons, and it quickly became an addiction, a way of life that keeps her pushing forward.
"This was my fifth Meiringspoort event, and I was here for the 30th anniversary, but it's the first time I've been stone last," Zoë reflected. Despite not receiving an official time or a medal, her journey was about so much more than times and accolades.
"This is not a race you do alone," she said, expressing her gratitude for the patient escorts who stayed with her from the 10 km mark while she walked to the end, the lady who walked with her for 1 km near the end, and the ambulance that provided encouraging support as it followed her up the final hill. For Zoë, this marathon was not just a test of endurance, it was a personal battle to reclaim her spirit. Her husband who cheered her on via video call from Johannesburg, has been her constant support. "He has been my biggest cheerleader through it all," she said.
The last few years have been filled with challenges and she struggled to regain the fitness she once enjoyed, but despite her challenges, Zoë's determination never wavered.
"Today was either sheer bloody-mindedness or stubbornness. This race is my soul race and I'll be back next year. And the year after that."
She applauded the organisers and fellow runners.
"Well done to everyone. There's so much more to this race than just crossing the finish line."
Finishing last may have been bittersweet, but Zoe's accomplishment is a powerful reminder of perseverance. She hopes her story will inspire others, especially other survivors of life-threatening medical illnesses, never to give up. "Complete the race, no matter how slow, just finish it. It is worth it."
Zoë is passionate about raising awareness for blood, platelet, stem cell and organ donation, hoping her journey will encourage others to see how many lives can be saved through blood, stem cell and organ donation.
‘Ons bring jou die nuutste Tuinroete, Hessequa, Karoo nuus’
