Daryl Steeves

Every run is a feel-good moment; never take it for granted

By Donald Wade

Daryl Steeves is a pillar of the running community—a dedicated runner, coach, race organizer, and trusted advisor. Long before I had the privilege of meeting him, I eagerly anticipated his column, On the Run, in the provincial newspaper. When it was discontinued, I felt its absence deeply. Over time, we crossed paths at races, and as RunNB Chairman, I often sought his invaluable advice.

I thought I knew Daryl well. But a recent Facebook post revealed a side of him I hadn’t fully grasped. For 45 years, he has battled Psoriatic Arthritis, a progressive inflammatory condition that affects joints, tendons, and ligaments. Reading about his struggles and relentless determination made me realize that his perseverance isn’t just admirable—it’s extraordinary. When I asked if I could share his story, he humbly replied, "My running accomplishments are pretty modest and nothing like most of the inspiring runners on the RunNB site."

In my view, inspiration isn't just about speed, podium finishes, or popularity. It’s about resilience—about facing challenges head-on and continuing despite the odds. That’s what makes a runner truly remarkable. And that’s why Daryl’s story needs to be told.

The Reluctant Runner Who Found His Stride

Daryl has never considered himself a natural athlete. In the early 1970s, he took up running to improve his fitness for volleyball. At first, he ran at night, self-conscious about being seen. Back then, runners on the road were rare. But inspired by those around him—including his cousin, John L. Sullivan—he started to embrace the sport. “I knew I wasn’t much of an athlete, so I had to rely on fitness. Running became the perfect foundation for everything.”

His early years were free of serious health issues, aside from a childhood bout of osteomyelitis. But at 25, everything changed. Fresh out of graduate school, coaching and teaching at UNB, and in peak physical condition, he woke up one morning to an unrecognizable reality. His legs were swollen, his back ached, and a fever raged through his body. Hospitalized and in pain, he was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis—a disease with a grim prognosis.

His doctor told him he would never run again and would likely become disabled within a decade. But Daryl refused to accept that fate. At the time, medical treatments were limited—no biologics, NSAIDs, or other modern therapies. He endured years of pain, multiple surgeries, and debilitating complications: shoulder replacements, steroid injections in nearly every joint, wrist fusion, and even a spinal fusion at C1-C2. Yet, he kept moving.

Defying the Odds—One Step at a Time

Under the guidance of Dr. Grant, a marathoner and rheumatologist, Daryl was encouraged to continue running—albeit modestly. With support from his current rheumatologist, Dr. Barry, he managed to complete a couple of marathons and soul-refreshing trail runs. While other sports like swimming and cycling became too risky, he never let setbacks define him.

His health battles have been relentless: diabetes, heart issues, Barrett’s Esophagus, and more recently, Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. But Daryl remains undeterred. “I don’t take anything for granted. Every time I get to run, bike, hike, or even play a game of Pickleball, I’m in heaven—no matter the speed.”

In 2024, against all odds, he completed 24 races. He credits his success not just to medical care but to the unwavering support of his wife, Ellen, and daughter, Charlotte. “They have the perfect mix of empathy and tough love to keep me from feeling sorry for myself.”

A Legacy in Running

As a race organizer, Daryl played a pivotal role in YMCA events and triathlons. But perhaps his most cherished contribution was helping organize Marathon by the Sea in Saint John under the leadership of Mike Doyle and Kevin Watson. The race gained national recognition when Runner’s World magazine featured it as “the best bang for your buck in North America.” To this day, it remains one of the most missed events on the RunNB calendar.

A passionate advocate for volunteers, Daryl emphasizes their vital role in race events. “Volunteers are worth their weight in gold. Every runner owes them a debt of gratitude.”

Finding Joy in the Running Community

Daryl thrives on the camaraderie of group runs, relishing the post-run social time as much as the miles themselves. He has been part of numerous running groups and currently calls the KV Road Runners his home club. He also found a welcoming and supportive community among trail runners. One of his favorite events is the Run for Renee, a monthly 5K series organized by Dean Strowbridge. Living near the Shady Grove Trail system, he spends countless hours running and hiking its well-maintained paths.

“Running is too good for both physical and mental health to give it up. Every run is a gift, and I never take it for granted.” Coaching runners and triathletes has brought him some of his most rewarding experiences.

Words of Wisdom for New Runners

Daryl shares a valuable lesson: “When you’re young, you worry about what others think. In middle age, you stop caring. And when you’re older, you realize they weren’t thinking about you at all!”

It’s the same with running—everyone starts somewhere, and no one who has been there will judge you. “It’s easy to say ‘just do it,’ but I know it can be scary and challenging. That’s exactly what makes it worthwhile.”

Gratitude and a Fighting Spirit

Through it all, Daryl remains deeply grateful. “I am a lucky man. My incredible friends and family have accepted my limitations and supported me in leading an active life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

His closing words embody his relentless spirit:

“Pain has been a part of my life for 45 years, but it’s nothing compared to the joy I’ve experienced. Okay, Arthur-itis, let’s go another round or two—bring the MS with ya if you dare!”

Daryl lives in Quispamsis with his wife, Ellen. His daughter, Charlotte, resides in St. John’s, Newfoundland, with her husband, Stephen, and their newborn son, Gabe. His story is not just one of running but of unwavering resilience, passion, and the sheer will to keep moving—no matter what.

In 2010, RunNB awarded Daryl with the "Inspirational Person Of The Year"