Vancouver TV Personality Running in Reykjavik for Sister
Johanna Ward grew up on Vancouver Island, where her family including her sister living with type 1 diabetes still lives. She is currently the host of Shaw TV’s lifestyle magazine program, The Express. “The Express is all about what makes Metro Vancouver amazing! The people, the places, and the purpose - It’s a show that makes you feel good,” she enthused.
When she’s not at music festivals, food tastings, fashion shows or any other oh-my-word-you-just-have-to-try-this-amazing-place-to-be (working, remember!) - Where
is she? She’s on the move here, there & everywhere!
Johanna also teaches dance-fitness classes at the YWCA in Vancouver and at the Richmond Oval.
She volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in June 2010 and helped build houses for sick kids in Chile. In her free time she likes to do yoga, drink wine, watch cheesy TV
and spend time with her friends and family.
Her next big gig is taking her to Reykjavik, Iceland. Together with 4 of her YMCA friends, she’s running a half-marathon for Team Diabetes in 2011! She shares her thoughts, motivations and hopes in this daunting and exciting adventure.
Q: Why did you sign up for Team Diabetes?
Johanna: When I was approached by Team Diabetes it was a “right place, right time” scenario. I was looking for a give-back project to do in partnership w my work as a TV host at Shaw. I had recently returned from Chile on a Habitat for Humanity trip and was looking for my next big adventure!
Team Diabetes is so appealing because the cause is so close to my heart. My older sister has type 1 diabetes. I’m running for her!
I also have Icelandic heritage and I have always wanted to see the country of my grandfather’s birth. And yes, I’m hoping to meet Bjork!
Q: What did your sister say when you told her that you were signing up for Team Diabetes in Iceland?
Johanna: My sister was happy… and surprised. She said, “Wow, I thought you hated running… you know happens at a marathon right?” then, she gave me a big hug and said she was proud of me. She’s heard great things about Team Diabetes.
Q: In the first feature of Team Diabetes in Shaw’s Express, you mentioned that you didn’t like running. How’s that coming along?
Johanna: To be honest… I haven’t found a love for running, just yet. I love the shoes, though! My hot pink Nike’s practically glow in the dark!
It’s interesting to be opened up to a new world of fitness. The training tips for Shaw TV have been really fun. We cover topics like running in the rain, power snacks, strength training for runners, keeping motivated. My trainer Toby Russell is very patient! She keeps me on track with the mantra “no fun, no run”, and post-run hot chocolates!
My favorite run so far was along Dallas Road in Victoria with a 10 inch, 5 lb Chihuahua. I admit, he was faster than me, but I liked the push!
Q: Aside from your connection to diabetes, what’s helping you stay motivated in the training for Team Diabetes?
Johanna: I have 4 friends who signed up for the half-marathon also. I’m really inspired by their commitment, that group energy really helps make it even more exciting! We all met at the YWCA in my Dance Fit class… and we have promised to dance across the finish line!
I also love the community support. Almost once a day I get asked “how’s the training coming?”! That’s incentive to right there, knowing people care!
Q: What impact (or difference) do you hope to have made by the time you cross the finish line on August 21st in Reykjavik?
Johanna: I am really thankful to be a part of Team Diabetes and have the opportunity to raise awareness around this disease. I also want to raise dollars!! Lots of them! It’s amazing to think that we might be close to finding a cure.
There’s also a personal side to this that I didn’t expect. I am discovering new parts of myself through this experience. I look forward to proving to myself that I can run the half-marathon. (and then never having to run again!)
Watch her progress on the show and learn more at teamdiabetes.ca.