Tommy Akins talks about his life as a dad, grandpa, artist, retired executive and cancer survivor.
Meet Tommy Akins, the gentleman with a purposeful gait, who you’ve likely seen running on Bells Ferry Road.
After seeing him run through the years, many have been inspired and curious to know more about him. Catching up with him was easier than convincing him to talk about himself. Tommy is a humble man with a gentle spirit and great faith.
Tommy, 67, was born in Chicago and raised in the small town of Griffin, Georgia. He moved to Woodstock with his daughter and grandson 13 years ago. He is a dad, grandfather, artist, former corporate vice president and cancer survivor, who just happens to enjoy running. According to him, his greatest titles are dad and granddaddy.
Running is how most of us know you. Why do you run?
“I began running at a young age. It evolved into road races and even a marathon back in the day but, today, I no longer run for distance or time but am just thankful that I can. Running is merely an outlet for me. It is me-time, a time to reflect and escape my roles, responsibilities and worries. Physically, running is challenging for my body, but I truly believe that if we stop moving, we won’t. I also believe it is a large part of why I am still here today. My runs allow me time to reflect and I recite Scriptures or pray while I run. People often yell encouragement while I run, some stop me and want selfies. I certainly don’t run to be seen, but if my running serves as an encouragement to someone, then that makes me smile.”
Tell us about your love of painting.
“Painting is my passion. I have been painting since I was 5 years old. Formal training was never a financial option for me, so I learned through artistic friends and was basically self-taught. I believe that God creates life and artists create the allusions of life. I also teach painting classes one day a week, and it gives me so much joy. Painting has also been an important source of income for me, and helped provide for my family over the years and I am grateful. I am currently working on a large landscape painting for a Washington state congresswoman and several paintings are on display in galleries throughout Atlanta.”
Describe your fight against cancer.
“I was diagnosed with non-hodgkins lymphoma in 1998 when a lump was discovered on my neck that tested positive for cancer. I received a bone marrow transplant, which had low success rates at that time. The chemo and immune treatments that followed have certainly taken their toll on my body over the years. Today, I am considered in remission, but still need to have immunoglobulin therapy every three months. My cancer diagnosis forced me from the corporate world and has allowed me to focus more on my paintings and the people and things that I love and that bring me joy. As difficult as the cancer has been on my body, I believe the journey has made me stronger, wiser and grateful to God for each day. It is by the grace of God that I am here today, and I stand strong for him and all that he has done for me in my life.”
Next time you see Tommy on one of his runs, give him a smile and a wave. Then, follow his example and keep moving, and focusing on the things that bring you joy.
To enjoy Tommy’s work as a painter, visit www.masterpiecesfinesarts.com.
– By Karen Flaig
Truly an inspiration! I am a runner recently diagnosed with breast cancer! I have seen this man running so many times….this article came at the right time! Thank you for sharing!
For years I have seen him run and was curious and inspired by it. Thank you for the story and more importantly the gifts and lessons Tommy shared.
Kept moving our bodies…..remember what and who is important in our lives…. be grateful for every day.
Love it and and happy to read this today. 😊
Tommy,
Thanks so much for sharing your story. I’ve seen you run for many years. May God continue to bless you as you continue to bless others.
Remarkable man! I was always curious about him. Peace Be With You! Greg
Have enjoyed his determination over the years! Thanks so much for sharing this interview. What an incredible man😍
I LOVE that Townelaker covered this story! I too, like many others in this town have noticed him over the years, and wondered how on earth this man could do this so faithfully! My dad and I would comment as we passed him in bewilderment. But, I LOVE how he mentions that he recites scriptures, and uses it as a time to meditate on the Word of God. I too have said that when I work out, it’s my time with my Lord and Savior. What a truly neat guy! Thank you Tommy for letting us get to know who you are, it’s a pleasure to have you in our town!
Mr Akins
This is Mona, I misplaced you response, my husband Christopher is an artist and would love to meet you, I write this because he has a reading and writing disability. How can we all meet?
Mona Bourque
I see him running all the time when I’m down that way by the Walmart. I look for him too. My kids call him their friend lol. They’ll say “mom let’s see if our friend is out running today.” It’s very uplifting to see him moving. I associate him with happiness, strength, and positivity which is what we all need a little of during these hard times.
We’ve seen this man running countless times and have always been impressed and wondered about his story. Thanks for sharing.
This man is a true inspiration and a servant of God. We should all be so blessed to have him as a neighbor and friend. Thank you for sharing his story!
My family and I have seen him running for years and admired his determination. Thank you for sharing this beautiful story and your faith!
What an astonishing gentleman. My wife and I have seen him all the time over the years and have admired his tenacity. It was great to read about him. We wish him the best of luck and good health.
We have seen this gentleman for several years up and down Bells Ferry and have been amazed at his endurance especially in the hot summers… I’m so happy to learn about his story- it’s amazing… when I don’t see him for a while I tend to worry until I see him again… what an inspiration not only in survival but in living his faith. May God continue bless you and your family.
I would like to get in contact with Mr. Atkins. Is there an email address? I tried accessing the link to his art, but that did not work either. Thank you1