My First Half Marathon

Last year I started training for a half marathon. For a number of reasons, I had to pass on the October target date, despite having gotten up to 9 miles. I ramped it up again after a predictably low mileage winter. I got some solid motivation started taking advantage of my Friday's off in earnest and got up to 11 miles.

Then being the slave to fashion that I am, I sported a hot pair of tall, red heels to see "Wicked" on May 4. On May 5, I ran....and realized that something squirelly was going on the in left leg. I had 25 days to go.

I R-I-C-Ed with devotion. This inherently means low to no activity. I was off, what seemed to be, a pulled muscle for 2 1/2 weeks. If you are not doing the math, that left precious little time to be ready to run 13.1 miles.

This is all the long-winded way of explaining my S-L-O-W time. I did terrific through the first 8 miles, including the climb to Porter Ave, aka the very top of WNY. Then I hit the Old First Ward, the land of my people, when three freaking bridges kicked my sorry butt. I walked/ran for about 2 1/2 miles.

Then when picking up a respectful pace, a woman ran up behind me and called, "way to go Team Cure! My father-in-law has cancer and Roswell has been a God-send". Thank you, sister!! That pushed me through the hardest mile I've ever run. At that point, I thought I'm not trying to beat cancer or provide the devoted, brilliant, caring medical intervention of the professionals who bring their A Game every day. I'm just running ONE damn mile.

I averaged 13 minute miles, including the walking. I can live with that. I'm not going to lie, I got into the stretch and lost some time due to the emotional crying.

My Inspirational Signs (note the 'speed' lines)

The Team Cure pinafore cinched with wind breaker.....NOT a good look.
My mobile cheering section I am so very humbled and proud to have been part of the Team Cure Challenge to help raise money for Roswell Park Cancer Institute. The collective raised over $35,000 at this event alone.

I've said it before, I'll say it again and again and again: We can all do our part in the fight against cancer. All free. Unfortunately not against all cancers, but we can all do this much:



Join the NATIONAL BONE MARROW REGISTRY. There is a Veteran/Parent/Spouse/Child who might live a longer, healthier life with your donation, which amounts to a blood donation by you.




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