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On January 23, 2022, Dr. Josh Yother suffered a massive heart attack that came out of nowhere, leaving him on the brink of death. Within 48 hours, he had to undergo two emergency surgeries just to stay alive. But in the midst of all the chaos, something surprising happened. His doctors came up with a plan that seemed almost too simple: “You need to start running. Find a marathon, train for it, and run it. It will save your life.”
Josh had never been much of a runner—he played baseball growing up just so he wouldn’t have to run! But when you’re told that running is your best shot at surviving, you listen. So, he laced up a pair of sneakers and started putting one foot in front of the other. Slowly at first. It wasn’t easy, but he kept at it.
Turning Crisis into a Comeback
Fast forward almost three years later, and Josh is a completely different person. He’s lost 80 pounds, runs 50 miles a week, and has logged an incredible 1,827 miles so far this year alone. What started as a desperate move to save his heart has now become a way of life.
In January 2024, Josh took on the ultimate test—Disney’s Dopey Challenge. For four days straight, he ran a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon, covering a total of 48.6 miles. He crossed the finish line feeling stronger and healthier than ever. That race wasn’t just about the miles; it was a powerful reminder of how far he’s come.
Now, he’s setting his sights on the Houston Marathon this coming January. He never would have imagined himself as a marathoner, but here he is, loving the journey and embracing new challenges every step of the way.
Healthier, Happier, and Running for Life
The change in Josh’s health has been nothing short of miraculous. His heart, which was once a complete mess, is now healthy. He no longer needs open-heart surgery, a pacemaker, or a transplant. He’s off almost all the medications he used to rely on, and running has become his best ally.
You see, Josh’s body doesn’t naturally convert cholesterol well, which puts him at risk of another heart attack. But running helps keep his HDL (good cholesterol) levels up, protecting his heart. So, he runs seven days a week. Not because he’s trying to set any records or prove anything—he runs because it keeps him alive.
Josh's journey from heart attack patient to marathon runner is more than just a story about fitness. It’s about faith, perseverance, and finding healing in the most unexpected ways. Running might not be everyone’s path to recovery, but for Josh, it’s been a lifeline.
With each run, he’s reminded that God used something as simple as a pair of running shoes to work a miracle. His heart is strong, his spirit is renewed, and his life is back on track.
And for that, Josh will keep running—one mile at a time.
If you have your own inspiring running journey to share, post it on Instagram or TikTok with #CarlethsRunnerStories and tag me @carlethkeys
