What’s Your Definition of Wealthy?

Posted on Aug 4, 2025, by

By Dave Kievet

What does it mean to be truly wealthy? For many, it’s tied to money – having a strong financial foundation, enjoying comfort or reaching a point of financial freedom. I see that as part of the picture. But for me, true wealth is about something more essential: health. Without it, even the greatest fortune can’t offer the freedom to truly live.

As a CEO, my days are often consumed by financial goals, business challenges and the constant hum of high-level stress. It’s easy to let health take a back seat when life gets busy. But a few years back, a health scare forced me to rethink everything.

In October 2018, I went in for a routine physical with my doctor. My family has a history of heart disease, it’s what my mom passed away from, and at this appointment, I shared my concerns with my provider.

My doctor explained that the only definitive way to check for any issues was through a cardiac catheterization. I figured there’s no time like the present and decided to move forward and scheduled it to be done the day before Thanksgiving. What happened next changed my life. The procedure revealed an 80% blockage in one of my main arteries. It was a silent, ticking time bomb. I had no symptoms, no pain, no warning signs. That same day, I had a stent put in.

I often reflect on that week. Just days earlier, I had run five miles and was feeling strong and healthy, completely unaware of the danger lurking inside me. If I hadn’t gone in for that routine checkup, I might not be here today. That sobering realization reshaped my priorities overnight.

I have always enjoyed being active and consider myself a healthy person, but it was never something I put much thought into. After that wake-up call, running became more than just exercise, it became a lifeline. Now, I intentionally make a point to run three mornings a week, strength train three days a week and rest the remaining day. It helps me manage stress, stay energized and find clarity in my personal and professional life. Of course, some days I skip my run, but when I do, I feel the difference.  

Running isn’t just about physical health, it’s similar to meditation, helping you build mental resilience. When I’m in my head, focused on things that happened in the past or what’s to come in the future, running forces me to focus on the present – my breath, my stride, my determination to keep moving. As someone who thrives on always doing something, I really love that running allows my body to move and my mind to be still.

This September, I’ll be taking on a challenge I’ve never faced before: running my first full marathon at the Community First Fox Cities Marathon. Why this race? Because it’s more than just a course—it’s a journey through my hometown, a place filled with memories and meaning. The flat course and supportive community make it the perfect setting for my first 26.2 miles. It’s not just about crossing the finish line; it’s about proving to myself that I can.

Training for a full marathon isn’t easy. Some days, the neuropathy in my feet makes every step painful. Other days, the temptation to stay in bed feels overwhelming. But when those moments hit me, I think back to 2018 and the reminder that my health is wealth. I think about my four children and four grandchildren. I’m 64 years old and I want to be the fun grandpa who plays tag, tosses a ball and makes memories. The only way to do that is by maintaining my health. So, on those especially tough days, I think about how lucky I am to be able to get out of bed and do the “hard” thing.

So, what does it mean to be wealthy? For me, it’s about having the freedom to live without limitations. That’s why I’ll be running my first marathon this September. My goals are simple: to finish the race and celebrate my health (by not dying). If you’ve ever thought about taking on a challenge like this, I encourage you to join me and all the other participants at the start line. Whether you’re running, walking or cheering from the sidelines, this event is about community, resilience and celebrating the wealth of health. I’ll see you out there!

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