Carmel Author Published Memoir on Running and Grief
Local resident J.R. Sandadi shares how marathon running helped him navigate loss and family history.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Running
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Carmel resident J.R. Sandadi has released his new memoir, The Eleventh Kilometer. The book explores themes of immigration, grief, and faith, framing his personal story through the lens of long-distance running.
Why it matters
Sandadi wrote the book to process the loss of his parents and the miscarriage of his son, using his transition from a 22-year corporate career into running as a way to find deeper meaning. The narrative parallels his own life experiences with his father's upbringing in India.
The memoir documents Sandadi's completion of all six World Marathon Majors after beginning his running journey in 2014. These athletic accomplishments serve as a framework for the author's narrative on resilience.
The players
J.R. Sandadi
A Carmel resident and author who finished all six World Marathon Majors after leaving a 22-year corporate career.
The details
The book title references the 6.8-mile distance Sandadi’s father walked to school each day in India. Through episodic storytelling, the memoir links this physical endurance to Sandadi's own life, including his time at Louisiana Tech University and his eventual departure from a two-decade corporate career. Sandadi uses these parallel narratives to process grief and explore the intersection of community service and family life.
Timeline
1991: Sandadi completed graduate studies at Louisiana Tech University.
2001: The author experienced the miscarriage of his son.
2014: Sandadi began his journey into running.
October 17, 2026: The author will discuss his book at the Carmel Clay Public Library.
Health Landscape
The narrative reflects a trend of using structured athletic goals, such as the World Marathon Majors, to manage significant life transitions and trauma. This approach aligns with broader interest in the psychological benefits of endurance sports on long-term well-being.
Readers managing personal grief may find value in how physical activity provides a rhythmic outlet for processing difficult emotions. If you are considering starting a new exercise program to support your mental health, it is worth discussing your plan with your doctor first.
The takeaway
The memoir highlights how connecting physical movement to personal history can aid in processing life's challenges. If you are grieving, consider reaching out to a therapist or support group that focuses on active, movement-based healing strategies.
Further reading
For more on the intersection of mental health and distance athletics, visit our Running section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Current Publishing.
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