PHILADELPHIA (KYW) – A man originally from Philadelphia spent 40 hours running up and down the stairs outside the city’s art museum, which were featured in “Rocky,” to honor his brother.
The steps leading up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art are world famous. Featured in the classic movie “Rocky,” they are a symbol of the underdog’s triumph through hard work and grit.
James Resnick decided to run up and down the stairs 1,000 times in honor of his brother, Sammy, who was in a car accident 22 years ago that left him paralyzed. He now lives in a full-time care facility.
“He’s never complained about his situation once. He’s the funniest, most charming person I know. When I need advice, I actually go to him,” Resnick said.
Resnick started his challenge Thursday evening and ran through the night, taking only short breaks to drink fluids and use the bathroom. By Saturday, he was still running. Each lap consists of 72 steps up and 72 steps down, for a total of 144 steps, Resnick said. So, 1,000 laps means 144,000 steps.
“This all started – it’s all about love. Whether it’s friends, family, your siblings, whoever. It’s just all about love,” Resnick said.
He wants people to look at his journey and see that they have the power to rise above their circumstances. He set his goal over a year ago and spent six months training.
“I came to do it last year – not prepared – and it was 90 degrees out. I made it to 300, and then, I was like, ‘OK, I’ll come back and do it the right way,’” Resnick said.
It may have taken 40 hours, but as Resnick finished his 1,000th lap, his brother – who had been on his mind throughout – was waiting for him at the bottom.
“He’s a hero for me,” Resnick said. “1,000 laps. 40 hours. So, thank you to the city. I love everybody.”
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