His brain and body shattered were in a horrible accident as a young boy. He learned too young about cruelty and pity, enduring teasing remarks and laughter. He wasn't supposed to live.

At 45, Bret Dunlap thought just being able to hold down a job, keep an apartment, and survive on his own in Rhinelander, Wisconsin added up to a good enough life.

Then he discovered running.

(VIEW the story in Runner's World)