See Adrienne Run: 1.7 Big Ones

What's All This Then?

Greetings!

This blog has run its course, as it were. Actually three courses, but don't let that stop you from reading. Here's the skinny: I dedicated most of 2008 to running and fundraising for cancer research. On June 1, I ran the San Diego Rock n' Rock marathon. On June 21 I ran a half marathon in Anchorage, Alaska. Both of these feats were tackled with the coaching and support of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, for which I raised $5,725. The final challenge was the New York City marathon on Nov. 2. This time I trained with "Fred's team" on behalf of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center where I was treated successfully for Hodgkins lymphoma five years ago. I raised another $3240 (maybe more).

It was a banner year in many ways. I celebrated 5 years of health. I raised a lot of money. I earned a Team in Training triple crown for completing a triathlon, century bike ride and marathon. I was featured on a show about three first time runners in the NYC marathon, aired on NBC in New York. And ....

You can read all about my journey in sneakers below. And remember:
"A journey of 26.2 miles begins with a single shlep."

(For the back story, check out the Sept. 29th entry.)

Saturday, February 9, 2008

1.7 Big Ones

GTS #1 Time: 8:30 a.m. Place: Central Park

I shlepped around the lower loop once, stopped to walk for short distances twice and arrived back at Bethesda Terrace about 16 minutes after I started. Eh. Considering that I have an upper respiratory infection compounded by an earache from a tooth extraction earlier this week, I feel pretty good about having done it at all. Not doing it isn't an option. Broke bread with some of my teammates at Neil's (a rubbery overcooked omelette and surprisingly good coffee) afterward and returned home feeling content.

I took a picture of my group--Megan's mentees--before our first run. I wanted to document the beginning of the journey. Notice that we're all smiling.

(From left to right: Jodie, me, Megan (my mentor), Terence, Justin, Adina, Stephanie. G. and Christine)

Whatever else happens today, I'm pleased with myself because I started training for a marathon. I'm definitely nervous because I am The World's Worst Runner, but I have that same misplaced confidence I had when I found out I had cancer (knew I wouldn't die) and attempted my first triathlon (finished it because I just didn't consider the alternative).

Blindered and bullheaded isn't all bad. Sometimes it's essential.

Miles to date: 1.7