SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - Thirteen people overcoming a unique set of obstacles plan to conquer a 13.1-mile marathon this weekend.
They're called the Lucky 13.
"It takes a lot of courage, and you've got to be really brave, even just to apply," said Paul Carey, the Lucky 13 Coordinator, and Head Coach.
The Tri-City Medical Center program assists those who have had or are currently overcoming health obstacles to achieve their fitness goals.
For six months, they're professionally trained and receive wellness support ahead of the Tri-City Medical Center Carlsbad Half-Marathon.
"Everything good I have in my life can be traced back to Lucky 13 and being part of that," said Carey, who was a participant years ago.
For 30 years Carey felt trapped in his bipolar diagnosis.
During that time, he was on heavy medications, had several psychiatric hospital stays, and underwent 50 sessions of electroconvulsive therapy.
Then he found the Lucky 13 program.
"It's an endless foundation of support that's just something really remarkable," said Carey.
If you'd like to be a part of the next Lucky 13, Tri-City will accept applications from February through the end of June.
