Why I keep going

While the miles continue to grow.
16, 18 and now 22 miles...

I have to remind myself of the reason why I keep going.
Why I continue to train.
Why I continue to raise money.

As much as I want to say I train for everyone effected by blood cancer... well I do.
But what got me to my first Team in Training Information meeting was, well, someone close to home- my dad.

I run in honor of him.
Every day, every mile, every step.

Eight years ago my dad trained to cycle the perimeter of Lake Tahoe as a member of Team in Training.
Little did he or the rest of us know that six years later, in the same months where he would normally, cheetah like, speed through a 50 mile bike ride... would limit himself to going down the house stairs to a mere 3-4 times. The stairs in his eyes, were mountain like, taking every ounce of his strength to climb.
He was diagnosed with what is called Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) which is a group of diseases that affect the bone marrow and blood.

If you knew and know my dad- he's a fighter. And in those coming months, fight he did. (While having fun along the way!)





In November of 2010 a miracle transpired. They found a donor and in a matter of a few weeks- received a Stem-Cell ransfusion and it took!

Our prayers were answered, after six weeks in the hospital,
My dad was coming home for Christmas!





I have to admit.
This was a life altering experience.
It makes you value each and everyday that you are gifted life.

Thanksgiving may only come around once a year, but I am thankful everyday for having a second chance with my best friend, my dad.

Since his recovery my dad has been busy. He's not wasting ANY time!
He's realized the opportunity he has been given and taking full advantage of it.

Sky diving.
Scuba diving.
Zip lining.
Hiking.
Running.
Traveling...
to name a few













I wish more people realized the gift they have been given.
The gift of life.


When I'm running those 50 miles in April, I'm running for my dad.
Because without him... I wouldn't be the person I am now.

And I'm still fundraising... If you know me, my dad, both of us or neither of us- feel free to give to a good cause.
HERE




(picture taken for Nike Womens San Fran 2011 Marathon)


After the 50 miles...
Well I'm going to keep on training. Maybe not for another Ultra marathon. (At least for now)
But I will be training, with my dad, to cycle "The Most Beautiful Bike ride".
That's right.
My dads doing it again, 8 years later... with me.

So don't switch screens, keep this link in your favorites, and enjoy the ride.
Because you bet even after my Ultra Marathon... I'll be keeping you updated.





Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness.