Training for the Bix 7: Rachel Loussaert’s Journey Through Adversity
In the city of Davenport, Iowa, a unique road race known as the Bix 7 is more than just a local tradition—it’s a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and determination. This 7-mile race, celebrated for its challenging course and community atmosphere, draws participants from all walks of life. Among them is our very own Rachel Loussaert, a runner whose journey to the starting line embodies the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Facing Adversity Head-On
For Rachel, training for the Bix 7 has been more than just preparing for a race—it’s been a profound way to regain control and demonstrate her perseverance.
Rachel’s journey is marked by remarkable courage and unyielding resolve. In 2019, just months after giving birth, her condition worsened dramatically. She faced severe illness and pain, leading to multiple ER visits and hospital stays. Despite various treatments, surgery became necessary when the affected area proved too damaged to repair. Rachel underwent surgery to remove 12 inches of her small intestine and part of her colon, followed by an emergency procedure due to complications from the first surgery. For three months, she relied on an ostomy bag to facilitate healing, and a final surgery in December 2019 removed the bag. At her lowest, Rachel weighed just 97 pounds and wore girls’ clothing.
This challenging experience reshaped Rachel’s outlook on life and reignited her passion for running. Having spent so many days confined to a hospital bed, she vowed to remain as active as her body would allow.
Crohn’s disease brings daily challenges, turning even the simplest tasks into obstacles. For Rachel, this means dealing with unpredictable symptoms and constant management. Yet, she refuses to let these difficulties define her or derail her goals. Instead, she faces them head-on, driven by a determination to prove that limitations can be overcome through sheer grit and resilience.
Balancing Training with Life
Finding time to run amidst parenting, managing her condition, working, and handling everyday responsibilities requires meticulous planning and determination. The Bix 7 training regimen involves a mix of endurance runs, interval training, hill work, strength training, and recovery sessions. Rachel’s plan is tailored to accommodate her health needs, ensuring that her training enhances her strength while not exacerbating her symptoms.
A Message of Hope and Resilience
Rachel’s journey is a powerful reminder that adversity can be met with triumph. Her story is not just about completing a race; it’s about challenging oneself against the odds and embracing the journey with an open heart. Whether it’s a road race or another personal objective , Rachel’s journey underscores the importance of facing adversity head-on and finding strength in the pursuit of one’s goals. In the end, the Bix 7 is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of resilience and the human spirit.