BOALSBURG – A cross-country runner from St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy, in Boalsburg, received a prestigious award.
Julia Cusatis was named the most inspiring Pennsylvania cross-country athlete.
The award was presented by professional runner Neely Spence Gracey, who presented Cusatis with a bronze sneaker.
The high school junior garnered the award for her positive attitude and her determination for continually defying the odds. She has juvenile arthritis.
“I’m pretty stubborn, so I try to just act like nothing is wrong and just shove it under the table,” said Cusatis.
Her condition is hard to ignore every day, but she said running is her passion and is what makes her happy.
St. Joseph’s Head of School Jean Kozak said Cusatis’ mindset is inspirational.
“Being a Catholic school, we often think: What would Jesus do? But oftentimes I think to myself: What would Julia do?”
Cusatis said she plans to keep running as long as her legs allow her to.
“In life I just want to stay positive and try to keep overcoming obstacles,” she said.
ncG1vNJzZmivmpawtcKNnKamZ56axLR7y6iamqRfrLWiwIywpq6klGK3trjImmSdp12Ysq%2FA0Z5knKelo8G6edGupaedomKxprLYoqWgZaSdsm67w52q