I ran my first marathon in Grade 10, with my boyfriend at the time. I'd trained with a YMCA group called the Wolfpack, a mix of runners from their teens to their 70s. I was the youngest by far, but I loved it. Sunday long runs, shared stories, pushing each other — that community shaped me.

But my reason for running goes back further. Diabetes runs in my family. By the time I was 3, my uncle had already lost a leg. My dad, brother and nephew all live with it. Even before I fully understood the disease, I knew I wanted to move — to stay ahead of it. I used to race the school bus. Running gave me a sense of freedom.

I've been running ever since. It's how I manage to stay in shape, both physically and mentally. I became an endocrinologist to help people prevent and manage chronic disease— and movement is a big part of that. It doesn't have to be running. It can be walking, dancing, swimming, lifting weights — whatever works for your body and your brain.

I've run marathons on six continents. Berlin, Germany, might be my favorite course, but winning the Montreal Marathon was unforgettable. I was in my 40s, not even supposed to be in the “elite field.” It was a hot day, but I held strong. My photo ended up next to the winner of the men’s category. That was an amazing day.

I’m originally from Montreal, but my husband and I now live in Lake Placid. I've been at Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital for 10 years and have done Ironman races most years since 2005. I do 100-plus mile bike rides with my coworkers. My kids are active. Even the dog runs. Some of my patients have cheered me on at the finish line, which just about brings me to tears.

The message I share with patients is simple: Start small and find what moves you. Your energy is contagious. You never know who you might inspire.

Dr. Tina Kader is an endocrinologist at Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital. She has been with us for 10 years.