See Adrienne Run: The Long Run

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.)

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

The Long Run

Hillary won the popular votes in Ohio, Texas and Rhode Island and I had a great run yesterday, my longest one so far. Win-win. Perhaps I should reverse the order given the purpose of this blog. Somehow it just seems wrong to put my accomplishment ahead of hers. I'm proud of both of us.

I mapped a run through Alphabet City down to Delancey and around Tompkins four times. I ran an average of 13 mph, which is slow, but I was steady. I didn't stop to walk. Maybe it was the scenery that kept me moving. All I can say is that the difference between the street and the mill is dramatic and decisive. There's no going back to the habittrail. I have to pray for good weather.

I've noticed a very clear pattern of resistance. The first hurdle is getting myself on the road. If I can get out of the house and then break through that first mile or so, I can keep going. Last night, I didn't want to stop. I ran for as long as I could before the need to use the bathroom outweighed my need to run 5 miles. The important thing is that I know I could have done it. I know I will.

Tuesday: 4.5
Miles to date: 30.5