Jim Baker is an unstoppable force of energy and inspiration. At 83 years young, the Milford resident will lace up his walking shoes for the second year in a row at the annual Ribbon Run 5K (formerly Commit to Get Fit), which benefits the St. Joseph
Hospital Cancer Center.
Jim has had a strong connection to St. Joseph Hospital since moving from Cape Cod, Massachusetts four years ago. The retired
pastor receives his primary care from Dr. Jonathan Sixon, “the absolute best doctor” he’s ever had, Jim says. “I consider him as
much a friend, maybe even more, than a doctor.”
Dr. Sixon initially inspired Jim to participate in last year’s Ribbon Run after learning that he walked regularly to stay active after hip surgery. “Dr. Sixon’s son has won the race multiple years, and his whole family participates, so he recommended I join in by walking it,” Jim says.
“I’ve always been in relatively good shape and enjoyed sports like baseball, basketball, tennis and swimming. But these days, walking is the most enjoyable for me because I can get outdoors, improve my physical and mental health and feel closer to God.”
Jim walked his first 5K at the Ribbon Run last year and had such a great experience that he’s returned with an ambitious goal: “I want to do better than last year, even though I’m a year older now!” To “train,” he walks three to four 5K distances weekly around his neighborhood and surrounding trails.
Registration for this year’s Ribbon Run 5K is now open.