See Adrienne Run: Matters of Time

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.)

Monday, May 5, 2008

Matters of Time

The thing about these endurance events for me is that having done a few, I know I can tough it out. I know if I put in the time, I'll get through it. I say this with great certainty even though I know it's really not certain. Things happen. I've never run a marathon, never even aspired to run a marathon before and yet I'm convinced that I will do it. And I will.

For me, it's a matter of time. Just how long will it take? It's a semi-frightening question to answer. This weekend's half marathon made it clear that I'm in for a whole lot of trouble if I don't find a way to keep moving at a reasonable clip. By the time I finished, I had an unpleasant situation in my left foot, the one I consider my good one, and I had been contending with all of the usual stuff with my right foot. The nerves on the top of my feet are being compressed because of the swelling. Most socks cut into my ankles, adding to the numbness and weakness. Right about now I'm wondering why I set out to do this in the first place.

I know I can endure a lot. I believe I will get to 26.2, barring something happening. Things do happen, especially on race day. I know that's a real possibility. But rather than dwell on the unknown, I'm doing my best to alleviate chronic problems and avoid new ones. I have to be prepared emotionally for the possibility of something happening. Tackling this stuff is one form of ballast. This week is all about getting this stuff sorted out ASAP. Now's the time, she tells herself. Don't be late for now.

Note to self: Listen to Sister Boogie Woman each morning for an extra lift.