Team MTF-Running for Research Spotlight: Christine Bailor-Goodlander

Posted:Wednesday, February 8, 2017

We interviewed Team MTF runner Christine Bailor-Goodlander to find out what drives her to run the 2017 Boston Marathon.

I understand that you are a nurse and an LMT. What led you on the path to becoming a massage therapist?

The movement from nursing into massage therapy felt very natural. My desire to spend more time with my patients rather than on paperwork and the like, was a huge factor on my decision to make a career change.

I understand that you opened up your own practice. Will it be difficult to train and maintain your clientele?

I have been running my practice for about 17 years at this point. The majority of my clientele maintain standing appointments, so my schedule is fairly stable. They are all very encouraging of my participation in the marathon.

Tell me what led you on the path to become a runner?

Working with runners, I was intrigued by what I saw in them. I was encouraged to join a Zero to 5K group in our local running club, Checkers AC, and the rest is history.

Why did you choose to run on behalf of the Foundation?

I work with some phenomenal athletes on a daily basis and they have inspired me to take up running for health and sport. The thought of running the Boston Marathon to completion is a glorious one. My passion for moving the massage therapy profession to the forefront of the health, wellness and medical field is truly a motivator for me. I can think of no better way to help the foundation educate and promote massage therapy and knock an amazing item off the bucket list.

Boston will be your first marathon. Are you doing anything special in preparation for this historic event?

I actually have close family members living just outside the city, so my husband, son and daughter are going to head up for the weekend and celebrate with them.

How did you feel the moment you received the call that you have been selected to be a part of Team MTF – Running for Research?

Both terrified and exhilarated!

Why are you passionate about raising funds for the Foundation? Have you set any personal fundraising goals?

I believe the Foundation is our source for knowledge and education to the medical profession and the public at large. Despite the fact that we have made great strides in elevating our profession, so much more is needed to be done and the foundation is a large piece of that process.

You are representing the Massage Therapy Foundation on April 17th, 2017 and running the experience of a lifetime! How is training going?

I believe it is going pretty well. I have to admit to never being totally pleased with my running. However, I also know that most runners never are! My motto is “a little better everyday”.

Is there anything else that you would like to add?

It is my great pleasure and privilege to have been selected and to represent my profession and all the amazing therapists out there that everyday work hard to make our profession great.

The Boston Marathon takes place on April 17, 2017. You can read more about Christine’s journey and support her efforts here.