In a heartwarming tale of determination, runner Mia Thompson has captured the attention of many as she juggled her unexpected pregnancy with rigorous training for the Olympic trials. Competing at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials in Eugene, Oregon, Mia returned to the track just four months after welcoming her baby, showcasing her extraordinary commitment to her sport.
Last year, at the age of 30, Mia achieved personal bests in both the 1500-meter and 800-meter races, making her a strong contender for the Olympic team. However, in July 2021, she received unexpected news: despite using a copper IUD—known for its over 99% effectiveness—she was pregnant.
She shared her journey candidly on her blog, stating, “Why would I choose to have a baby in an Olympic year? The truth is, I didn’t. I’m part of the less than 1%. I’m pregnant.” With such a rare occurrence, Mia faced the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy and the challenges associated with IUD removal. Nevertheless, she and her healthcare team ensured her pregnancy was healthy, which fueled her desire to pursue Olympic aspirations. “If I could defy the odds once, who’s to say I can’t do it again?” she wrote.
Throughout her pregnancy, Mia documented her training on social media and her blog, even inspiring an ESPN documentary titled Run Mama Run that highlights her dedication during her third trimester. By the end of her pregnancy, she was running approximately 40 miles a week over four days.
Mia welcomed a healthy daughter, Sarah Grace, in March. Just two weeks later, with her doctor’s approval, she was back on the track, continuing her training regimen. While some critics questioned her decision to push herself during and immediately after pregnancy, Mia felt that stepping back would have been a bigger disappointment. “Some may think I’m crazy for still believing I can do this,” she noted, “but I know that sitting idle isn’t an option.”
Though Mia didn’t advance to the next round at the trials, her incredible journey remains an inspiration. After giving birth, many new mothers might long for rest, but her commitment to maintaining her athleticism during and after pregnancy is truly remarkable. In an Instagram post, she expressed gratitude for her supporters, stating, “Today’s outcome wasn’t the fairytale ending I envisioned, but this journey isn’t about an end—it’s a new beginning for our family of three. You can count on seeing this mama run!”
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In summary, Mia Thompson’s incredible journey exemplifies the power of resilience and passion in the face of unexpected life changes. Her story is a reminder that with dedication and support, one can pursue their dreams, no matter the circumstances.