Today Thomas and I ran in the National Marathon to Finish Breast Cancer. I originally registered for the 26.2 marathon, but a few weeks ago I pulled my hamstring. The week before the race I was still in considerable discomfort, downing Advil and toting the heating pad around with me. I was really nervous that I wouldn’t be able to complete the full marathon.
The morning of the race, I told myself that I would go as far as I could. If I got a DNF (did not finish), then that’s what I’d get. But I REALLY didn’t want that.
About 6 miles in, I was seriously doubting whether I’d be able to finish the 20 miles left. I was already hurting and my gait was affected. I made the decision to do the half marathon. 13.1 miles seemed totally feasible. Thomas went on to finish the marathon and made awesome time.
After making the decision to commit to the half, my spirits were much better. I didn’t feel nervous or upset or even preoccupied. I was more relaxed and able to enjoy the people running beside me and cheering us on. I was able to think about why we were running. Running for Breast Cancer. Running for our mothers, aunts, grandmothers, sisters, daughters and ourselves.
It turned out to be a wonderful day. And yes, I was hurting, so it wasn’t all peaches-n-cream, but it was totally worth it. And now I’m looking forward to next year.
It was great to send you off and welcome you home again, frozen fingers/toes and all
Every step taken by the runners in this Marathon was a wonderful gesture.!