Arctic ultramarathons helped this suicide survivor find hope | INDIE ALASKA

Carol Seppilu describes jogging with a tracheotomy as “trying to breathe through a straw while running.” She's even dealt with her trach freezing shut while running in the frigid winter temperatures in Nome, Alaska where she lives. She's learned to adapt to challenges like this since surviving a suicide attempt in 1999. Following years of reconstructive surgeries, she now uses her Siberian Yupik cultural values and her love for running long distances to keep herself mentally healthy.
#mentalhealthawarenessmonth #mentalhealthmatters #ultramarathon
Video by Valerie Kern and Adam Nicely
Story by Valerie Kern
Music by Universal Production Music
This episode is made possible in part by The Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority.
INDIE ALASKA is an original video series produced by Alaska Public Media in partnership with PBS Digital Studios. The videos capture the diverse and colorful lifestyles of everyday Alaskans at work and at play. Together, these stories present a fresh and authentic look at living in Alaska.
Click on the Subscribe button above to get notified when new episodes are available.
Consider supporting Alaska Public Media and ensure storytelling like INDIE ALASKA continues into the future. Make a donation today at: www.alaskapubl...

[@kristoohy8868]

"Just keep going." So hard and yet so true.

[@beanrunnerWA]

Wow, great inspiration! True Alaskan 👍

[@xxminglexx]

Carol, as an Inuit who also suffers from depression and PTSD, that you spoke about the dark moments being temporary is so true. You're doing great work helping our youth.

[@alaskapublic]

Powerful comment. Thank you for watching and sharing your story.

[@mnelson929]

Amazing story and lady.

[@rachelturner9162]

Incredible story, Carol. Your courage in telling it is an inspiration.

[@davidshi451]

An amazing story, told with with great sensitivity. Well done. My only wish is that it was longer!

[@ZDub123]

Great job and way to show all people what we are capable of, even after truly suffering through rock bottom. ❤

[@Aynesd]

Amazing and inspirational. Thank you for sharing your story.