26.2 Reasons to Make Every Moment Matter
“What if we don’t raise enough money? We’ll be on the hook for $4,500.”
That was one of the first things my oldest brother, Markham, said to his wife when he considered doing the NYC Marathon this year.
Over two and a half years ago in March of 2023 (just months after his wedding), he was diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer at 37 years old.
I don’t talk about this much, mostly because it’s not my story to tell, and also because I don’t think of my brother as a victim.
More importantly, neither does he.
He’s just my brother.
But the truth is, after 40+ rounds of chemo by age 40, he’s not as strong as he was before.
So when he decided he was going to run the NYC Marathon, I was blown away. And if I’m being honest, a little worried.
Is he going to push himself too far?
Is his body prepared to take on such a feat?
Is he going to make things worse by going through this?
Boy was I wrong.
He’s the strongest damn person I know.
I’ve cried about 8 times just writing this - and when I saw him powering up 1st Avenue on the Upper East Side 16 miles into the race, let's just say I was a total mess (the Rollins fam are an emotional bunch 😅 ).
When I saw Markham after he finished the race, I asked him if he ever wanted to quit, or if he thought he wouldn’t make it.
“Yes. All the time.”
But he kept going.
Each step, its own moment. A choice point.
Do I bring the next foot forward?
Or do I stop?
He just. Kept. Going.
Making every freakin moment matter.
Oh and by the way, he didn’t raise the $4,500.
Here are a few lessons I learned from witnessing Markham’s triumph:
There’s strength in quiet persistence: sometimes strength isn’t about being loud and big and fast - it’s about moving forward, even if no one is watching - one painful, intentional step at a time. He doesn’t complain. He does what needs to be done.
Purpose is powerful fuel: Markham was not running for himself. He curated a list of names from donors and friends who lost their battle to cancer or are currently fighting. Each of their names were printed on his shirt, so they were with him the whole way.
Every step is a choice: In moments of fatigue, fear, or doubt, we still get to choose how we show up: Do I take the next step? Or do I stop? Every leader has the choice, no matter their circumstances, on who they want to be in each moment.
Impact starts with intention: Crossing the finish line was only part of the victory; raising over $30k and increasing awareness to save other lives is how he turned personal struggle into collective good.
Leadership is about modeling what’s possible: Not just about leading others. He didn’t give a speech or rally a team; he modeled strength, resilience, persistence, commitment, generosity and caused a huge ripple effect of inspiration for others in the process.
You don’t have to feel ready to begin: As if 40 rounds of chemo wasn’t enough, he got a cold the month before the race, which meant very little training was possible. Did he show up anyway? Painfully, fully, proudly? Yes.
In all likelihood, you’re dealing with some version of “hard” right now. Maybe it’s navigating a tough job market, strained familial relationships, anxiety around the political environment, personal health challenges, feeling burned out, etc.
Whatever the case, your feelings and struggle are valid.
My hope is that you feel the Ripple Effects of Markham’s story and can extract an ounce of strength or courage to help you through whatever version of “hard” you’re dealing with right now.
One foot in front of the other.
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Chris Rollins - Keynote speaker helping leaders eliminate Invisible Friction™. Inspiring leaders to act with intention in a world craving trust and connection. Specializing in leadership, teamwork, and creating inclusive, human-centered workplaces. Start a ripple that drives lasting impact today.
