Woman’s road to health inspires others

Irene Gonzales, center, a longtime teacher, principal and administrator, poses with friends at a post-race party on May 27, 2012, her 50th birthday.

Irene Gonzales did her milestone 50th birthday so big she landed on NBC’s “Today” show Aug. 8 to share her infectious enthusiasm with the entire country.

Like many baby boomers looking to do something extraordinary to mark the big 5-0, Gonzales, the principal at Spokane’s Franklin Elementary, decided to run a marathon on her actual birthday. But unlike most, she was joined by 50 friends she rounded up by starting a fitness Facebook page called Fit Fifty.

“I was feeling not very fit and complaining about it with a girlfriend on Facebook,” Gonzales said. “She said, ‘Well Irene, you have to make a decision. Are you going to be a fit 50 or a fat 50?’ ” Full Story . Erica Curless, SR

Did you do anything memorable to celebrate your 50th birthday?