Half Way There

I got an e-mail from my group leader today entitled: Half Way There! After today's run I will have completed 34 workouts and only have 33 left. I italicized today because I didn't run today ;). I was super exhausted from my weekend workout, splitting my 7 miles around work, thinking about even planning a wedding and staying out late for the Cardinals game. Instead I did some yoga. I can't tell if I reached a total zen, or if I fell asleep in the corpse pose. Either way, it was wonderfully relaxing. I also intended to walk Emma but this heat and humidity has taken it out of me, and her. So instead I'll sit and blog and have a cookie and milk :)

What a crazy thought to think I'm halfway there. I have physically endured 14 miles, which is over half the distance of the 26.2 for race day, and on Saturday I'll tackle 16 miles for the first time.  Yes these are quite a distance but it still feels like I have so far to go. I try not to focus too much on October 23rd and just take it a week at a time. It's funny how 5 or 8 miles can seem just as far as 14. I've decided it is all about what I set my mind to. If I know I'm going to run 5, that's about all my body and mind can and want to do. If I know I'm going to run 14, no problem. So I guess by the time race day comes, my mind will be wrapped around 26.2 and it won't be a problem. Let's hope :)

In terms of fundraising I'm over halfway there. As of today, I have raised about $1,025 from all the amazing family and friends I have! My website does not currently reflect this; I'm technically challenged and can't figure out how to enter donations, so they have been forwarded to the American Cancer Society. No worries though- things should be up to date within the week. It's so crazy to think that in the past week people have donated over $800 and helped me become a member of the $1,000 plus club. I was super worried a week ago but now I'm more confident I will reach my goals :) I'm about $200 shy of my 'required' commitment as part of the DetermiNation program, but I'm about $500 shy of my personal goal. It would be so amazing to hit that target this week. I see real potential because on Friday some of my closest friends will help me ask for money outside of the Cardinal game. So if you'll be at the game on Friday come say hi and donate to fight cancer!

It's so neat to read the ribbons and letters people return with their donation. I have saved every one of them and will continue to periodically review them. It makes the whole process worth the effort, and it's touching to see how much people care about their loved ones. It's ironic how prior to signing up for the DetermiNation program with the American Cancer Society I didn't think I was personally related to cancer; but as I talk to people about what I'm doing, I realize I'm more connected with cancer than initially thought. One of my girlfriends had a grandfather diagnosed with cancer. My girlfriend's boyfriend's grandfather passed away from metastasis, or the spread of cancer. Since the start of my journey at the end of June, my grandfather has started radiation. He is in his second week, and so far so good. Another family member of mine was diagnosed with cancer. Instead of feeling sad, I know my efforts are supporting people currently undergoing treatment as well as supporting research for future treatment and cures. And even though he'll probably never say anything, I know that by participating in this program I am making him proud.

Click here to donate.