DULUTH, MN -- A few setbacks over the years forces one Duluthian to take on a different version of Grandma's race this year.
Father Ben Hadrich of Duluth's St. Mary's Star of the Sea Catholic church made his dreams come true nearly 20 years ago when he completed his first marathon.
Father Hadrich had 20 Grandma's Marathons under his belt before life threw him a curveball.
"I've had two different strokes in my life," said Hadrich.
In 2015 Father Hadrich suffered his first stroke but miraculously ran a marathon 10 months later.
5 years later, Father Hadrich suffered his second stroke, but this one was much worse.
"Now I just thank God I can walk," said Hadrich.
And walking is what he plans to do this Friday for the William A. Irvin 5-K Grandma's Marathon race weekend.
Hadrich said he isn't worried about the time it takes to complete the 3.1 miles.
"I did three miles and I did it in two hours and 35 minutes, a long time to be walking, but I'm just so glad to walk period," said Hadrich.
Father Hadrich enjoys the outdoors, for both his physical and mental well-being.
He adds his experience has been difficult, but it has strengthened him and his relationship with God.
"I just think God is so good that I'm even alive," said Hadrich.
Father Hadrich plans to start walking around 5:30 p.m. Friday, a half-hour before the 5-K starts.
He encourages all to come cheer.
