May Runner of the Month: Skye Chen-Johnson

Congratulations to our May Runners of the Month! During this difficult time, we are featuring two of our runners who are essential workers here in NYC.

Skye first joined NBR last July, shortly after moving to NYC. "Running has always been a big part of my life and I was hoping to find community, people to push me athletically, and where to run in the city." Skye has been a regular at our Thursday Night Track workouts and is an active member of NBR!

What is your job and where do you work?
I’m currently working as an EMT in Brooklyn and Queens.

How is your daily life right now?
Almost all of my daily routines have been interrupted, as have everyone else’s. I have been working on deployment with FEMA, so I was finally able to return to my apartment after 5 weeks yesterday.

Has running helped you cope during these scary times?
Running has absolutely helped me cope. It has been one of my only consistent stress relievers and provides a sense of normalcy. Although adjustments to my running, like wearing a mask and going solo are inconvenient, they serve as a reminder not to take it for granted.

What's the one thing that keeps you going?
My incredibly supportive friends and family, who constantly make me laugh and are always there to talk, even from across the country.

Any inspirational thoughts or uplifting stories to share?
Amidst all of the fear and negativity, I have seen incredible acts of humanity and love both on the job and off of it. It is inspiring to see people finding creative ways to support and check in on each other.

Thank you Skye and the rest of our essential workers who are making huge sacrifices for the community.