Distance of Three Kilometers That Transformed My Perspective on Long-Distance Running
A Personal Achievement at the Juregimnin Jenimpazy Running Event
On a cool Sunday morning in Astana, I participated in the annual Juregimnin Jenimpazy running event, a personal challenge for me as I do not typically run. This event, organised by the Heart Center Foundation of the UMC Heart Center, is held to support patients awaiting organ transplants.
I chose to take on the three-kilometer distance, and with after-work practices twice a week with my colleague Aibarshyn Akhmetkali, I felt prepared. As I crossed the finish line in 30 minutes, I was filled with a sense of accomplishment. My mother, who was also participating for the first time, finished eight minutes after me.
The Juregimnin Jenimpazy running event attracted a diverse group of participants, including experienced runners, families with strollers, volunteers, people in wheelchairs, and first-timers like my mother and Aibarshyn. Seeing people coming to the starting point early in the morning made me feel a part of something bigger.
The race was not about medals or who is faster, but about showing up because we care. The Heart Center Foundation saved my mother's life six years ago, and I was proud to support their cause. This year, the Astana Times partnered with the organisers, further emphasising the event's importance.
Running is different from my regular exercises, and it presented a unique challenge. However, the cool Astana air could not hide the heat running to my cheeks after the race, a testament to the effort put in.
Currently, there are over 4,000 patients on the waiting list for organ transplantation in Kazakhstan, with 145 specifically waiting for a donor heart [1][3]. More detailed data from May 2025 indicate 4,226 patients awaiting organ transplants nationally, including 128 children [4]. While the data are national, given Astana is the capital and major medical center, it likely includes those on the waiting list there.
My colleague took on the 10-kilometer race, and his determination inspired me. I am grateful for the experience and the opportunity to support such a worthy cause. The Juregimnin Jenimpazy running event will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of community and the importance of caring for one another.
[1] Source for the number of patients waiting for organ transplants in Kazakhstan. [3] Source for the number of patients specifically waiting for a donor heart in Kazakhstan. [4] Source for the updated number of patients awaiting organ transplants nationally, including children.
Sports played a significant role in unifying participants at the Juregimnin Jenimpazy running event, gathering individuals of varying backgrounds and abilities to support the Heart Center Foundation's cause. The three-kilometer race and the 10-kilometer challenges provided a common ground for attendees to showcase their personal efforts and contribute to the greater goal of supporting organ transplant patients in Kazakhstan.
