Chicago Marathon 2025: Visually-impaired runner Tim Paul prepares for Bank of America Chicago Marathon race day October 12
Share this @internewscast.com

CHICAGO (WLS) — On Sunday, tens of thousands of runners will take to the streets for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

Running more than 26 miles is not an easy take. Running it while you’re blind is a whole new challenge.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

On Friday, 67-year-old Tim Paul needed assistance to walk along State Street in the Loop, but he plans to run there on Sunday as part of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

Paul became blind in his 20s, adding difficulty to his marathon ambitions, but not deterring him. Sunday marks his 24th marathon effort.

“I also don’t want people to see me as only blind. I want them to see me as a marathon runner,” Paul said.

His training involves running while connected to a guide, who assists him in navigating the course. Paul is adamant that his blindness won’t prevent him from living fully.

RELATED | Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2025: Full list of street closures in Grant Park area

Besides marathons, Paul has tackled triathlons, downhill skiing, and is also a musician. He can now include movie star to his list, thanks to a feature film by producer Kamelya Alexan about his life, titled “I’m Only Blind.”

“Tim is just such an inspiring story,” Alexan said. “His story stands out from anyone I’ve ever met in Chicago.”

The film will soon be screened in Oak Park. It showcases Paul at his full-time job at The Chicago Lighthouse, an organization offering various services to those with disabilities, including blindness.

“I think Tim has encouraged people,” said Aaron Baar with The Chicago Lighthouse. “The story has encouraged people to think about doing more.”

Paul remarks that starring in a movie was beyond his expectations. His goal is to make the most of life and inspire others not to be held back by their own challenges.

“Not to say no to challenges, but to say yes,” Paul said.

Paul is also running in the Rise to Shine 10K/5K/1M with The Chicago Lighthouse on Sunday, Oct. 19. It’s a race that’s open and accessible to all levels and abilities.

It might be challenging to find Paul among the sea of 50,000 runners in the Chicago Marathon on Sunday, but people will have the opportunity to see him on the big screen at the movie theater.

There will be a special screening of “I’m Only Blind” at Classic Cinemas in Oak Park at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 27.

For more information on the film and to purchase tickets, visit the Classic Cinemas’ website.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Saudi Arabia condemns Iran's attacks on Gulf nations, offers 'all its capabilities' in the fight against Tehran

Saudi Arabia Denounces Iran’s Actions in the Gulf, Pledges Full Support Against Tehran

In a significant diplomatic move, Saudi Arabia has expressed its backing for…
Jesus Guzman charged with DUI, reckless homicide after Boris Nudelman fatally hit on Dempster Street: Morton Grove police

Morton Grove Tragedy: Jesus Guzman Faces DUI and Reckless Homicide Charges in Fatal Dempster Street Accident

A tragic incident in Morton Grove, Illinois, has led to serious charges…
Trump floats 'friendly takeover of Cuba': 'They want our help'

Trump Suggests Diplomatic Engagement with Cuba: “They’re Open to Our Assistance

WASHINGTON — On Friday, President Trump suggested that the United States might…
Fix outdoor dining and protect the tip credit

Exploring the Future of Dining Sheds: Reclaiming Streets for Vehicular Use

Over half a decade has passed since the onset of the COVID-19…
Trump's Iran attack sets off furious debate in Congress on whether war is 'necessary' or 'illegal'

Congress Erupts in Heated Debate Over Legality and Necessity of Trump’s Iran Strike

President Trump’s recent decision to initiate military action against Iran without seeking…
Gulf nations band together to condemn Iran in wake of sweeping retaliatory strikes

Gulf Nations Unite in Strong Condemnation of Iran Following Widespread Retaliatory Strikes

In a dramatic escalation, Iran finds itself increasingly isolated following a barrage…
Texas bar shooting leaves multiple dead, injures up to 20 at Bufords Backyard Beer Garden

Tragic Texas Bar Shooting at Bufords Backyard Beer Garden: Multiple Fatalities and Up to 20 Injured

A tragic shooting at a Texas bar early Sunday morning resulted in…
CIA tracked Iran Supreme Leader Khamenei's movement for months -- intel helped US, Israel time strike during meeting: report

CIA Monitored Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei for Months, Aiding US-Israel Coordinated Strike Timing: Report

Over recent months, U.S. intelligence agencies closely monitored Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah…
Nolte: It’s Kamala v. Obama in Texas Showdown as Jasmine Crockett Takes 18 Point Lead over James Talarico

Texas Showdown: Kamala Harris and Obama Clash as Jasmine Crockett Surges Past James Talarico

Recent surveys from the Texas U.S. Senate race for the Democratic nomination…
Nutty professor who held machete to Post reporter’s neck rambles in defense of her $407K taxpayer-funded art installation

Taxpayer Dollars at Risk? Controversial Professor Defends $407K Art Project Amidst Scandal

A former CUNY professor, who infamously brandished a machete at a reporter…
Exclusive -- Tom Homan: Trump Administration's Immigration Policy Far More 'Humane' Than Biden's

Former ICE Director Tom Homan Criticizes Biden’s Immigration Approach, Touts Trump’s Policies as More Humane

On Saturday, the topic of immigration took center stage on “The Alex…
Why did US and Israel attack Iran? What to know about Donald Trump's aim, reports of Iran school hit, retaliation and more

Examining the US and Israel’s Strikes on Iran: Insights into Former President Trump’s Objectives, Alleged School Targeting, and Potential Retaliation

WASHINGTON — On Saturday, the United States and Israel launched a significant…