Calvin Harris,  —

Calvin serves as chief financial officer for the National Urban League. He grew up in Maryland, near Washington, D.C., and now lives in Brooklyn, New York. He was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in 2014, with the condition affecting his lungs, skin, lymph nodes, and bones. Despite the challenges of the condition, Calvin strives to live a balanced life in service of others. His column, “Run Your Own Race,” is inspired by his newfound enjoyment of running, something that his first sarcoidosis doctor told him was not possible, but later doctors encouraged. He hopes that his column will help remind fellow patients and others that our sarcoidosis journey is uniquely our own race to run.

Articles by Calvin Harris

Living With Sarcoidosis Allows Me to Share My Truth

I recently read that social media basically captures our best fake day. I found that comment extremely funny, then quite sad. If I were to clean up that comment, I’d say something like, “Social media sometimes captures our best fake day, if we let it.” Because for me, and most…

Take That Win Where You Can

Last month, I participated in my biggest race ever, the Brooklyn Marathon. The race weaved through various neighborhoods in Brooklyn, passing less than a block from my apartment. With over 20,000 runners, it was by far the biggest crowd I’ve ever run with. And while in 2022 we have learned…

Help Support Sarcoidosis Awareness Month

When I was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in 2013, I had no idea what was coming. Heck, I couldn’t even pronounce my condition (and truthfully, I still mispronounce it at times). All I knew was that I had red marks on my face, and my lungs were apparently in decline. Ah,…

As Seasons Change, I Reflect on Hard Work and Hope

Last weekend in New York City offered a combination of past, present, and future, at least in terms of the weather. We had sub-freezing temperatures with rain and snow, a late sunset due to daylight saving time, and a sunny day that served as a reminder that spring is upon…

Throughout My Life With Sarcoidosis, I’m Grateful

I’m grateful. On Rare Disease Day, and since, I’m grateful. On this day of consequence and nonsense, of war and peace, of movement and stagnation, of highest courts and lowest valleys, of pandemic and hope, I’m grateful. I’m even grateful for sarcoidosis, or at least my version of…