Running has big impact on life

To the editor:

Regarding Sam Blackwell's recent column on running: I grew up in Bell City, Mo., graduated from Southeast Missouri State University and joined the Navy in 1967. Running was not part of my life until 1986. Other than stopping smoking, running has had the largest impact on my lifestyle, health and sense of accomplishment than anything else other than staying married for 36 years and having two granddaughters. I just completed the Fourth of July 15K with my Marine Corps major son-in-law for the fourth consecutive year. If the United States adopts nationalized medicine, I am in favor of an annual physical fitness checkup. Keep on running, Sam.

IVAN DUNN

Coronado, Calif.