The Marathon Experience - Marathon DAY! (Stage 2)

Here goes - time to finally chronicle the "DAY"....  I had a tough time with recovery from treatment this round and have been so tired and overwhelmed, my updates to you all haven't been there.  There is so much to share and I really wanted to do it right, so I needed to wait until I was feeling better.  Treatment started late because of our travel and therefore recovery was late too.  SO here I am FINALLy ready to report! :)


My Chicago Marathon - 10/10/10


I was happy that we got to bed at a decent time  -- dinner was fabulous and I was like a kid at Christmas, thinking the earlier to bed, the earlier to rise and then I can enjoy my presents!   OK - maybe not the best analogy but definitely anxious for the day to begin.  This marathon created less performance pressure because of my cancer and more focused on the fun and the completion-- so I was smiling and happy - knowing just crossing the finish line for me in Chicago would be an amazing success story in itself.

Palmer House, Chicago, IL (love this artsy shot with the side lighting of the sign) :)

I sent a text to Cara (aka: BatGirl) first thing in the morning to make sure she wasn't going to be late as Charlie had me all worried that she may be, but he kept her right in line with the time frame and they walked from their hotel to ours in the morning.  I couldn't find my glide, but finally did and covered my upper body where I normally get chaffed  - crazy as it sounds, my skin is so sensitive, I really need glide every race. Steve and I hit the lobby Starbucks for some great french roast coffee and I finished a croissant for a little carbo boost for breakfast.  No craziness for food in the morning for me, need to keep it simple so my body doesn't go crazy later!  Plenty of water and then we met Cara & Charlie and family outside the Palmer House.   We were quite the crew.  As I waited for Cara people walked by on the way to the start and commented "nice outfit" -- it was funny because we really look better together as they "Dynamic Duo".  Love the capes!  We decided we could handle the string and wear them the whole way because the look SO good!  My outfit was a little tight, but I really love the look -- so much fun once you get the suit on, I felt like a Super Hero!  Aren't we cute?! The "pirate hat worked (I honestly think having that hat has been a great disguise, so much that people don't even realize I am in chemotherapy.  Or least I don't think they can tell.... :)

We walked to the Elite corrals - Charlie was in Elite A and Cara & I (with David - who we met later) were in Elite B.  We wanted to be sure we were entering right as the time for the start was approaching quickly.   A few more photos as a group and we were on our way.  Steve is just so amazing, he was the tour guide, coordinator for the group to get around on the L and view the course, hoping to catch us with my camera along the course.  His energy and love I count on every minute, every mile.... I love this photo of us together, he is  my incredibly fit, gorgeous husband, and a balanced calming nature -- I love & appreciate him so much.

So we made it to this space and had to wait.  You see the three of us below - well we waited for at least 15 minutes.  I was getting a little nervous, but they finally let us and and it was smooth sailing from there.  People did try to climb the fence and they were immediately booted.  There were 45,000 people on that starting line in the different corrals.... it was pretty crazy!  We headed to the B corral, and said good luck and good bye to Charlie (he was hoping for a sub  3 hour marathon!).  It was truly fun how everyone commented and loved our costumes....  we smiled and waved and posed for photos- even in the start corral, racers pulled out their cameras and asked us if we would flank them for a photo.  SO much fun right from the start.  :)

And here we are after we met up with David PIttman  in Elite Coral B(LINK to his story on Chicago HERE)-- we all ran together in the beginning -- Cara and I chatting along and David just smiling!  

The ACS DetermiNation Dream Team was rocking Chicago!

Now a mile by mile recap!  Here is my post on Daily Mile to see the course and the Garmin entry of pace and more!

Miles 1-6:  Feeling fast, energized, excited and pumped by the crowd cheers!  We were "flying" with our capes on and honestly had a hard time running slow.  Truly feeling like a SUPER Hero in cape and costume! (This is usually a problem for me - so honestly I was taking advantage of it - knowing I would pay for it later).  We stopped at every water stop because of the hot weather and looming dehydration and warnings out there because of the heat.  But the water in our system also made it so we had to stop early for that bathroom! :)  

Lucky for us - no line!  In and out quick, but it did slow our pace to stop.

Miles 7-14:  Chatting away, flying high, waving at the crowd and raising our arms to make them cheer louder was so much fun.  My face hurt from smiling so much!  The kids were the best, to see the look in their eyes when they saw the Super Heros running by.  It was so heartwarming to see all the families out there cheering on their runners.  We looked for the ACS DetermiNation folks along the way - found a couple of girls and got my photo taken, but thought I lost Cara!  :)  She of course was waiting patiently for me in a slow jog.  She PROMISED never to leave me -- so cute.  :)  I am glad she didn't.

Photos by Steve Cook --  we didn't see him here - but you can see we were working the crowd. :) 

 This is the award winning photo that I autographed for Doc Mullally

 (Thanks sweetie!)

Miles 16-20:  This was the tough section where it began - we stopped again at the Port a Pottie and my legs were starting to cramp up - either from Prednisone or dehydration or acccumulation of drugs, not sure.... :)  But it wasn't much fun.  It was much easier to keep running.  My fingers and toes were tingly, but didn't feel blistery yet.  It was awesome while in the race when other racers would comment that they loved running near us because we were getting so many cheers and encouragement.  They called me Wonder Woman - and Cara quickly told them my story, how I was a true Wonder Woman STILL in treatment.  Impressed the heck out of them all!  :)  I was starting to lose it with my stamina, so all this talk of strength and admiration of what I was doing kept me going!  

We truly were having so much fun with the spectators and all the suburbs of Chicago -- there was this one section where the band was giving FREE HUGS and we ran right for them!  :)  Then right after that the whole area including a block of water and Gatorade volunteers had a Wonder Woman theme - they were ALL dressed as WW!  This was my section and it was just so cool to be there smiling and psyched to have them there as my WW team!  :)  There was this one transvestite that was dressed in a Wonder Woman outfit down to the boots --- I stopped and said "I love your outfit!" and he said --"I love yours too!"  SO fun!  :)  This one runner actually kept running as he tried numerous times to take our photo - we were the stars of the day!  And anyone who would listen got a quick recap of my story and you could see the amazement  almost look of disbelief on their faces.  Once or twice I took my "pirate cap" off just to prove I was bald.  :)

Cara's BatGirl outfit was a hit!  She was in black so sometimes people didn't notice her beside my red and blue bright outfit.... they called her "Batman, Bat Woman, BatGirl an my all time favorite Bat Chica!" She looked so awesome in the black cape and always had such a huge smile on - people gravitated toward her positiveness.   She checked in with me constantly (or as much as I would let her) to see if I was ok and if I needed anything.   We said a few "Our Fathers" and felt truly blessed and watched over the WHOLE way.  Yes- I thank God for Cara.  We got to know eachother that day - talking the whole way (or at least until I needed more oxygen) - telling eachother our life stories and became the BEST of friends.  :)  The Dream Team for me turned into this dream come true of truly dedicated cancer fighters that have supported me through my diagnosis, treatment and supporting me in my love for running and marathons.  I truly have become to cherish my long distance friendship with each one of them - all of us in our own corner of the country! :)

Here we are at mile 21 (I was "DONE" but couldn't wait to finish)

Cara is in midst of telling a story!  :)  Looking pumped up and ready to finish!  Love her expression in this photo --- she talked the whole way!  Sang a little too!

 At mile 21 we stopped to say hi to Charlie's mom  & sis, get a "WOOT WOOT!" from Mama T - and a HUGE hug from my sweet husband Steve to feel the energy and love our our families !   Steve was so great to snap all these super photos of our adventure!


Off we go!  The Dynamic Duo - making the city safe one mile at a time.  It was pretty funny as this is what we commented to any of the police officers on the side of the course.  It brought a smile to their face as they applauded our efforts.  Cara continued to let them know that I was the real super hero - still in treatment and running strong.....  Her admiration, and confidence in me gave me strength!

Miles 20-26.2: 
Off we go to finish the race.  It has been said that the race begins at mile 20-22.  So as you can imagine with all the adrenaline gone and the body using up its energy that this is a point where you just need to dig deep.  We walked for quite a while it seemed right around mile 22 and drank a TON of water.  Each water stop I poured water over my head and in my face to cool off and add hydration to my body.  Walking was ok, but my legs were cramping up.
Crazy - but we stopped at medical to use a Biofreeze (Bengay type product) to soothe the muscles.  The next stop I went to use another and Cara grabbed an extra.  The medical folks warned us that there was only enough for one per runner.... Cara wasn't too happy with that and let them know I was in chemotherapy and that they really should make an exception.   :)  She ended up using one for herself and gave it to me.  :)  I showed them my bald head - first time exposing it!  They were impressed.   :)


When I stopped for the Port-a-pottie again, my calves cramped big time, so much I needed to stop and stretch.  I grabbed bananas and had paced out my 3 GU along the course for energy and ate oranges that were offered as well, hoping to help the cramping.  Once we got to 24 - I said to Cara... "let's just finish this thing!"  She replied "I can do that- let's go!"  I asked her if we could make the 4 hour goal and she said we could.... so then I just began to dig deep -- it was easier to run than walk, the cramping started to subside at least for the time being.  This is when all the interesting food comes out and there were people with signs that read "Dig Deep - You're Almost There",  "Smile if your Horny" and "They ran out of Beer at the finish" - we smiled as people cheered us on and we saw the same groups more than once (I remember specifically the Frog Umbrella people" and the girls with all their costumes and make up!  ;)  We had fans following us EVERYWHERE on the course.  :)


We ran those last 2 miles without walking - a 10 1/2 and a 9 min/mile --- it felt a lot faster than that.  Best part we crossed the line with a minute or 2 to spare in making that 4 hour goal.  I was elated.  It was overwhelming and tears came to my eyes.  I did it.  I just ran 26.2 miles - in under 4 hours, which is a BQ (Boston qualifier) and I am in the middle of chemotherapy!  Any doubters out there are now hushed.  It was an amazing accomplishment for me - one I will never ever forget.  Spiritually I felt connected and empowered by strength from above.   The skies were shining on me!


We got our medal, got a mylar blanket, and headed to the food / water/ gatorade and finisher photos.  Charlie found us and walked with us through the volunteers and got our free beer (which I of course couldn't drink because it just doesn't taste that great with the drugs in my body).  It was a little tough stepping up on the curbs and walking, but we headed   to see our families at the meeting area.  Once I saw Steve I was relieved and overjoyed.   He hugged me and held me and was so proud.  SO was I.  I was pretty tired, not real talkative, a bit worn out - my feet hurt (maybe a bit blistered) and I was definitely a little fuzzy!  But I was still smiling, so much that my mouth hurt!


The toughest marathon ever?
Yes indeed it was in so many ways both physical and mental.  - and now I can write about it and share my strength and joy with all of you!


Next:  Post Race - "The DetermiNation Experience"

Here is the mileage data is from my Garmin Forerunner 405 

Here is the full detail on this run from the connect.garmin site

Split	Time	Distance	Avg Pace
Summary	03:58:03	26.57	08:57
1	00:07:49	1.00	07:49
2	00:07:33	1.00	07:33
3	00:07:45	1.00	07:45
4	00:07:39	1.00	07:39
5	00:07:46	1.00	07:46
6	00:09:01	1.00	09:01
7	00:07:41	1.00	07:41
8	00:08:11	1.00	08:11
9	00:08:31	1.00	08:31
10	00:08:21	1.00	08:21
11	00:08:19	1.00	08:19
12	00:08:21	1.00	08:21
13	00:08:12	1.00	08:12
14	00:08:04	1.00	08:04
15	00:09:18	1.00	09:18
16	00:08:44	1.00	08:44
17	00:09:11	1.00	09:11
18	00:10:44	1.00	10:44
19	00:08:56	1.00	08:56
20	00:09:34	1.00	09:34
21	00:09:32	1.00	09:32
22	00:10:30	1.00	10:30
23	00:11:48	1.00	11:48
24	00:11:39	1.00	11:39
25	00:10:39	1.00	10:39
26	00:09:06	1.00	09:06
27	00:04:56	0.57	0

This truly was an amazing experience - it is hard to really share in words, but I really appreciate all the comments here, the notes, the cards, the letters, and the comments on Facebook.

Thanks for stopping by - please leave a comment!

The Marathon Experience - Stage 1 (Pre-marathon)

What an experience!  The whole trip from start to finish...  It has taken me a while to find the time to write here on the blog, because as soon as I got home it was back to treatment.  As time goes by I have been getting more and more tired and it has been harder and harder to keep up on it all and feel well.  SO thank you for hanging in there with me.  :)

So here is my experience - running a marathon as an elite athlete, still in treatment (2/3 of the way!), dealing with the side effects of chemotherapy and sticking to my goals.  I have found so much strength from the training, from the encouragement of my family and friends, that focusing on this marathon has helped me to stay strong.  

Chicago Marathon - Pre-race

Riding on the "L" 

We love to take public transportation, saving on the environment, seeing the city from the vantage point of a commuter and obviously saving on our budget for the trip!  :)  Between the hotels, air fare, and meals the trip was a costly one and we put off the planning not knowing how I would feel - so we didn't get any "deals".  :)  But as a savy traveler, we did pretty well with our room rates and promotions we found at the last minute.  :) We stayed at the Airport Hilton the first night after arrival.  The flight was non-eventful after the initial negotiation of getting our seats together.  The lady was very nice to recind her seat and sit 2 rows back and we were thankful.  (I am a very good negotiator - ask Steve!)  :) The dinner was less than par at the Karaoke Cabaret bar (I may be mistaken, it sounded like karaoke but they may have paid them - it was pretty bad!)  :) We laughed as we went back up to the room to get a good night's sleep.   I ran in the hotel parking lot and into the airport parking lots to make a 2 mile easy run that morning, bummed to not be in town to join the DetermiNation group, but happy to get in some mileage and I felt great!  Good to have a positive mindset and stretch out those legs!   Once we got some coffee and a little breakfast we headed into the city on the "L". 

After checking in to the Palmer House that took a little more time than planned we headed out to catch the bus on King Street to the marathon Expo at McCormick Place. Those of you who haven't been to a big marathon Expo truly need to experience the craziness of the 45,000 runners with their families and friends looking at all the latest gear, trends, gadgets and nutrition products of the day.  It is pretty crazy!  And the stuff is AWESOME!  Nike was the sponsor of the official clothing line and they had a huge store of great stuff!  I love to get a jacket and Saturday after noon is late to show up and expect your size (believe it! I had to get my Boston jacket from an outside store!) and we were late to meet the team, so we scrambled through and found a Large white track jacket (that I love - thanks to Judy's suggestion).  :) 

So here it is in more photos....

Cara insisted that we get our photo with Ryan & Sara Hall (Elite Runners - Ryan was predicted to win as a US runner and decided not to race the week prior.  Twitter: @ryanhall3 and @sarahall3   -- I had connected to their story on twitter and they are both amazing runners with a passion for helping people.  It was so awesome to meet them and funny as Cara & I told my/our story in 1 minute flat!  :) "She has cancer, and is still in chemo and we are running as Wonder Woman & BatGirl".  As quick as the story was told, you could see their genuine concern and admiration for what I was about to accomplish.  :)  Here is our group photo! ;) 

Then we headed to lunch - all piled in Dave Pittman's van - the "Dream Team" was back together again.  It was so great how we only really spent minimal time in the van on the way to the Boston marathon and at the start that we are still so connected.... connected by a cause - through DetermiNation and running - we continue our friendships.  :)  I love this photo of Charlie, Cara, Steve & I squeezed in the back of the van!  FUN!

AT lunch I got to meet and get to know these 2 amazing women - the reason why Charlie & Cara have connected to all of us - Cara's mom (affectionately known as "Mama T") is on the left and is a 2 time colon cancer survivor just finishing treatment in June.   Charlies' mom is a breast cancer survivor and single mom raising some amazing children while in the midst of her battle.  Both stories were amazing to hear and it was so great to have that bond with these great women!

Then off to dinner - we LOVED the Grillroom that was walking distance from our hotel.  Definitely the best meal of the trip and spending time with my #1 guy is always so special.  Great service - great food!  We will definitely be visiting this restaurant again!

Then back to the room at the Palmer House which luckily had a Starbucks on the street level.  We LOVE our Starbucks and I have been perfecting my favorite drink.  Currently it is a Non-fat - Triple Shot - Grande - 1 pump Cinnamon Dolche with extra whip cream and sprinkles.  :)

Cara was SO thrilled to get her BatGirl costume she wouldn't take the cape off --- I am sure she wore it to dinner that night!  :)  I laid out my suit and tried it on for size (which it was a little tight as my sister used Cara's measurements :) but it looked great!  The look was so powerful and bright!  So here is my layout of everything I need all set up and ready to go so I don't have to think in the morning!  :) 

That is it for now -- I am going to do this in a couple parts as this is treatment week for me and I am truly not feeling so well after chemo and looking for additional energy - so if you have some - send it my way! 

Marking the Miles.... In Honor and In Memory

I have been fortunate to have 45 donors to date contribute to my American Cancer Society DetermiNation fundraising.  For the Boston marathon I had a list of people in memory and in honor and carried that list - naming a mile for each person -- the list came from my donors.  I have reached out to my donors asking them if they have anyone that they would like me to run in honor or in memory of and below is my list.  


Marking the miles with strength and love!
I will also be wearing my red cape and will have ribbons on the cape in memory & in honor of all these amazing people!  :)  This list will update as I receive names.....  :)  
In Memory
Mile 1 -  Louis Peck - my dad, he passed away after a heart attack at age 63. I miss my dad and find strength from his spirit and love!










Mile 2 -Charles N. Pilling Jr. and Irene M. Pilling.  They both died of Cancer.  Robin's father had Throat cancer and mother had ovarian, pancreatic and bone cancer. This is my great uncle & aunt (Robin Stoddard)  


Mile 3 - Sharon Popp - sister of Louise Popp & Robin Popp


Mile 4 - Mary Beth Reddell - my dear friend from American Airlines past away this June, she was a Hero of Hope and a true hero of mine as the American Airlines volunteer leader for more than 4 years.


Mile 5 - Kathy Doolan - cousin of Sandy McDonald who lost her battle this past February.


Mile 6 - Terry Zahn - Relay For Life Hall of Fame member.  The man who created the first Relay video and who truly had a vision for now the world's largest fundraising event supporting the mission of the American Cancer Society.  

Mile 7  - Nathaniel Kachadorian  - From on of my basketball players at WUHS - Kris Murner  - "He was good friend who gave me my first kiss and lost his battle at age 20.  His illness directly affected my studies in school where I majored in radiation oncology physics and interned at Norris Cotton at DHMC.  A patient interaction changed my career path-- where I realized how much I missed helping people directly--  and I walked away from a PhD acceptance at U of Wisconsin-Madison-- the top program in the country.  So I work with nursing schools now-- helping them ensure their students are achieving at the level they need to be in order to pass their boards. I never would have thought that this is what I would be doing- now.  I have visited with Nathaniel's parents over the years-- their musically gifted son was a treasure to me.  My oldest daughter, Sadie, shares his birthday...something not lost on any of us."  (Kris Murner)


Mile 18 - Jane Calvert's Mom


Mile 19 - Jeff Ross' Mom


Mile 21 - Jeanette's Mom & Dad (Douglas McKenna)




In Honor 
Mile 8 - MURIEL REDFERN & LOUIS REDFERN -Lynne's Dad had prostate cancer in 2002 but has been clear since the day before Derrick was born. Mom had lymphoma and continues to fight!  God bless You Everyday & may he guide you thru this marathon with his strength. I love you, Lynne


Mile 9 - Dario Quiles who is currently in treatmant for liver cancer, and Juanita Ocasio -hoping chemo will shrink tumor eoough to have surgery for breast cancer. (Sandy McDonald)

Mile 11 - Lynne Grazianno Morin - my dear friend who works for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and I met when she worked at the American Cancer Society --- an amazing woman with an amazing story!  She helped me and has continued to be a support for me during this journey.  I credit her for recommending Dr. Sean Mullally - who is truly a god - send to me & my family!  


Mile 12 - Grampa Ray! 


Mile 13:  Pat Flynn


Mile 14: Phylecia Wilson


Mile 15: Lynne Peters


Mile 16: All the patients at the Dr Mullally & Rockwell oncology office


Mile 17 - Susan Silodor - my dear friend that I met more than 10 years ago working for the Colorado Division of the American Cancer Society.  She has been a true inspiration of strength to me.  An amazing cancer survivor!


Mile 20 - Bev Gross - A dear friend, volunteer I worked with in Colorado to bring Relay For Life to NorthWestern Colorado.  Amazing fighter and national volunteer turned staff person --- that keeps the fight alive!




Mile 22


Mile 23 - Betty Ma's Father


Mile 24 - Cara's Mom & Charlie's Mom !!!


Mile 25 - 26.2  - Me!   2010 Because I CAN!  






More to come!  :)

"Don't Let Me Fall" - Photos of the journey

This is the slideshow I shared at the New England RFL University as I was speaking.  This version I put music to it --- and chose this song from my ChiPower playlist - knowing that my family, my friends, my colleagues will not let me fall, would't let this "beast" defeat me - and I would stand (and run) upright all the way through.   As I get ready to leave for Chicago I thought I would post and share it as a piece of my journey so far...

Don't Let me Fall - by B.o.B.

Chicago here I come!


When I get home we have treatment Tuesday - Wednesday and recovery on Friday.  Let's beat this thing!

Sincerely -
"WW"

Chicago Marathon - Here we come!

2 days  21 hours to go!  
Start time: 7:30 am
Date:  10-10-10  (Schuyler's birthday!)
Location:  Grant Park, Chicago IL


What?: 26.2 miles - a marathon - my 27th marathon

Why:  Because I can!  It hasn't been easy training or actually sticking to this goal after being diagnosed in July, with some doubters out there, people thinking I am pretty crazy (which I may be!) and just the struggles with having chemo all summer long and dealing with how to actually TRAIN for this marathon.  I signed up, was diagnosed with cancer, started treatment, figured out that I could still run and train long miles (although - believe me NOT easy miles...) and now the day has come!  The marathon will be the ultimate test of my will, my body and my DETERMINATION to live, to run and to complete this distance!  Yay!

For the American Cancer Society -- I have raised as of right now - $1809.60 - and our team (Judy & I - "Boston or Bust!) - has raised $3329.60!  I am thankful for my friend Judy for encouraging me to sign up for Chicago (before diagnosis) and for sticking with me as I continued the quest in training through treatment.  Her support of me has been unfailing throughout this and as a friend for more than 11 years now.  She has missed me at the national meetings, calls me almost every day to check in and make sure I am not down or stressed.  Laughs with me and cries with me too.  :)  There have been quite a few true friends that have really shown their light strong through this battle and she is truly one! :)  I love having a "team" in DetermiNation, because then it is not always all about you, but also as a team you can celebrate eachother's efforts.   And Judy has rocked this one!   I also love DetermiNation because it is a chance to make a difference in the fight against cancer and spread the good word of the work of the American Cancer Society.  As a participant and fundraiser and volunteer - it gives me such pride to support the organization that I work so hard every day to reach others and promote Relay For Life corporate involvement and the mission of what we do at the Society to fight this dreadful disease that I now have the experience first hand to say that with more meaning and MORE passion.    Photo above is one of Judy and I at the Applefest Half in NH when she came to visit in 2009.

You have read about the Dream Team in an earlier post --- well we are getting together on Saturday - which may be the only time I see Charlie because he is SO fast!  :)  David is bringing cake and Cara and I are going to be partners through this thing.....  BatGirl and Wonder Woman!  Yes - my sister made the costumes and they are awesome. All lycra, short skirts and insignia and the capes to match.  Can't wait to share photos with you all!  We are going to get the crowd's attention and are actually planning on bringing a camera for scenic shots!

Although a personal note - I am sharing Cara's response to me trying to get her off the hook from running with me the whole marathon (I really don't want to hold her back because she is SO fast and I will drag her down ....)

Cara Turano September 30 at 3:35pm Report

You are fine! I keep up with you through FB and blog and I have been worried because you seem less vocal. Take your time and I know you are feeling crappy. I am SO glad that you don't have treatment next week - that will make this whole marathon thing a lot easier and you are tough enough to beat this nasty thing without something even nastier hurting you.

As for the race, I am completely disregarding that paragraph! Girl, I have paced other people all summer. I am just as ready to run a 3:30 as I am a 5:20 and I am going to race Huntsville in December. Nancy, Chicago is about giving Steve a 4 hour or so break and letting me be your rock. I figured we could sign autographs and maybe have a fan club when we cross the finish line. :) If we walk, or fly, or skip, or stroll, or cartwheel, you are stuck with me...congratulations to you!! I even bought an eye mask and Charlie is worried about me running in it. I am going with you every step, cowgirl, and I will carry whatever you need to get through 26.2 miles in my utility belt. Did you really think you could get rid of me that easily?? Psshhhhh....I refuse to hear it. I have to many things to tell you and learn from you. We start together and we finish together....PERIOD.

I love you too!! I cannot believe we get to reconvene in Chicago in a few short days...I am gonna be right here every step of the way through the cancer battle and the Chicago Marathon. It is who I am and it is what you deserve.

XO,
C

Wow - that totally had me in tears when I read that note.  She is such an amazing  person and has sent me cards EVERY week.  I feel like we have been friends forever and I really only have spent time with her that one experience at the Boston marathon.  Yes - I do NOT have to have the Methatrexate treatment anymore, it was determined that there is not benefit from continuing that after meeting with the medical director at Baystate.  A HUGE RELIEF for me in readying myself for this marathon.  I feel so much better this week and the taper has been good for me to refuel and regenerate so I am in top/peak condition for a chemo ridden patient running a marathon.  :)
Whoo Hoo!


The Schedule: 
Friday:  5 PM direct flight to Chicago - staying at the Hilton Airport Hotel
Missing the ACS DetermiNation dinner

Saturday - ACS DetermiNation warm up run is at 6 am which is too early for us to get into town so I am missing that too.  I was bummed to get the schedule and see that all the events just didn't fit.
Expo - morning
Meet the Dream Team at the ACS DetermiNation booth at the Expo
LUNCH with the Dream Team!
Staying at the Palmer House on Saturday and Sunday so we will check in after lunch
Lay out clothes and get prepared for the marathon
Rest & relax
Dinner with my sweetie


Sunday:  
Early wake up - call Schuyler because it is his birthday!  He turns 9!
Meet Cara dressed in Wonder Woman costume.
Check clothing bag with bus
Find Elite B coral
Stretch and ready
7:30 am start - on your mark! get set! GO!
11:30 am finish --- I set my goal to qualify for Boston (even though I have qualified with my Boston 2010 time) - which for my age group is a 4:00 hr marathon.  I think it is do-able and with Cara's help and support - it is a slam dunk.  But of course I will listen to my body and slow when I need to and honestly will enjoy every mile of feeling alive, hearing the cheers, feeling the strength and just finishing this marathon will be enough for me.  :)


Steve will be on the course taking photos and meeting us at spots along the course.  We were here in 2007 and he was so wonderful to be there encouraging me, he knows the course and is ready! :)
Find Steve at the finish - go to the ACS DetermiNation tent - CELEBRATE!
Pizza Party for ACS DetermiNation - hope to be there after relaxation at the hotel.


Photos are from 2007 - last time I ran Chicago with a tiger tail and tiger ears in the "heat wave" when they "cancelled" the marathon. 2007 results: Chicago Marathon (3:26:13)- 896 overall - 128 female - 15th in age group


Monday - Recovery day -  10 am flight home!  :)
Tuesday - Blood tests and see Doc Mullally
Wednesday - Treatment
Thursday - Treatment
Friday  - Recovery day!

Thanks for stopping by -- stay tuned for more updates and photos from after the marathon.  IF you wish to track me here is a link and my race number is 4399.  Think of me, send me strength and power thoughts!  Please leave a comment if you stop by!  I read ALL comments and am thankful to all of you for your prayers, concern and love.

Applefest Half Marathon - a TRUE Challenge

The 28th Annual Applefest Half Marathon

Hollis, NH

September 25, 2010  -- 10 am start

This was my third time competing in this half marathon in 3 years.  My friends had always told me what a great half this was to run and I love the foliage time of year to be running long training for a marathon.  Fitting this in has been perfect in my training schedule in the past.  They reward the top finishers with a free entry to the race and I have been fortunate to have my entry waived 2 years in a row.  The race director is awesome, the awards are fruit baskets (of fresh local fruit) and home made apple pies. The post race "meal of apple crisp and great food galore is a grand treat at the finish line! It is truly a fest of Apples!   I registered early and the field closes out about a month out from the race, so only serious runnners are there in force.  It has a 2 person relay component to it so there are close to 1500 runners that start.  

Saturday was a warm day --- temps were in the 80's and the sun was shining bright.  We were a bit late leaving the house and pushed our trip to be running late overall.  It was a bit stressful, because you have to ride the shuttle bus from the middle of town - it took a little extra just to get to the school.  I showed up at 9:50 to get my number and race to the front of the start and meet Steve who had my camera.  I love all his photos and shared my faves below.  

Runners - ready - set - go!  And the gun went off and we were running down the hill to town... I was smiling for Steve and pushing my pace right from the beginning.... untill I felt sick... my legs were heavy... my stomach not so great either....  I couldn't get my breathing and my pace ....  I felt horrible...  I kept going, but thoughts in my head like I really shouldn't be here, this is crazy, I can't do this, kept going round and round in my head.  I kept going thinking I would know when to quit.  I felt like quitting, but I could still do it.  I saw Steve at mile 2 and was beat.  I didn't know if I could keep going for the whole 13.1 -- I was a little freaked out.  But I kept going, giving myself a break.  SO used to seeing the pace on my Garmin read low 7's for a race that it was really hard to let myself go slow - take a break.  JUST FINISH.  You can hang out and be in the back, you don't have to be in the front  -- I kept telling myself.  And then I did just that - I relaxed and gave myself permission to run slow.  I paced about 8's on the flats, 9's otherwise and once in a while I hit a 10 minute mile on the hills.  I talked to some people along the course and cheered them on.  There were a few that helped me relax and breathe too.  People are so nice in races --- at least where I was on Saturday!  :)   Steve came out to the 6 mile mark (probably thought I needed a ride) - and asked if I was ok.  He caught me on a downhill, so I was fine!  Gave him a quick kiss and kept on going...  It was crazy hot for a long race, finishing around noon was not so much fun...  I saw Steve again with less than 3 miles to go and was thinking, "do you think anyone knows I have cancer?  How hard this is for me?  That is am in the middle of this craziness in my life?"  We all run our own race, in our own arena -- rarely do you connect with others at these races.  But boy I wish I could have yelled my story from the roof tops -- what I had accomplished as I hit the last climb to the finish line.  Yay --- I did it.   I was ready for my speech!

In perspective, my time was about 20 minutes slower than last year - I was third woman in last year's race.  This year I was 10th in my age group and in my mind a much bigger champion than ever! An 8:46 to me was LIGHTING fast - especially during "treatment week".  See the full results below. 

The doc is right.  This chemo stuff is accumulative and the longer I am in treatment the more tired I am going to be.  It seems every appointment he asks me if i am still running and I say yes (like there is no other option for me) - It keeps me sane, gives me spirit and I feel alive.  I have this goal to do the Chicago marathon and I will finish.  But honestly when that is done - I am taking a break!  :)  

Results from Cool Running!  

169 of 889 finishers - Top 20%!

10 out of 48 in age group:   F4549 

Overall time: 1:54:44   8:46 min/mile

Nancy Cook             46 F  1256 Belchertown MA  

FEMALE AGE GROUP:  45 to 49
Place O'All Time     Name                     Age Sex Race# Hometown                
===== ===== =======  ======================== === === ===== ======================= 
    1    52 1:41:13  Karen McAdam              48 F    1105 Hudson NH               
    2    87 1:44:58  Rebecca Arsenault         47 F     893 Hudson MA               
    3   107 1:46:35  Diane Fowler              47 F      71 Andover NH              
    4   109 1:47:16  Barbara Drislane          45 F    1059 Salem NH                
    5   156 1:51:50  Lauren Barakauskas        46 F     417 Cambridge MA            
    6   158 1:52:05  Pam Triest-Hallahan       49 F     406 Nashua NH               
    7   165 1:52:37  Maggie Ramos              49 F     826 Peterborough NH         
    8   169 1:53:01  Kirsten Vernon            46 F     815 Amherst NH              
    9   182 1:53:43  Julie Kopser              45 F     535 Hollis NH               
   10   195 1:54:44  Nancy Cook                46 F    1256 Belchertown MA  

"Just Breathe"

"Not sure who is crazier --- this guy or me?!"

"Less than 3 miles to go at this point --- do you think anyone really knows how tough this is for me?   I took off my cap to share my "beautiful baldness"!  But boy does that head need a tan!"  :)

Headed up the last hill to the finish line -- I love this photo -- I am so happy - so proud that I finished!  It was incredible, a tough course, a hot day and I finished even though I am currently in treatment for lymphoma and only 1/2 way through chemotherapy.  

My sweetheart, my caregiver, my number one fan (and the best Nancy photographer out there!)  At the finish!  Everything I do - I do with his support and love.  I am truly blessed.

THE Finisher Medal - this medal means so much to me..... I have run only one other race (Mt. Toby) while in chemo.  Now only 2 weeks till Chicago -- it has been truly a HUGE challenge for me!  My running really helps me to keep my spirit, my sanity, my drive, and my mental state in tact.  I am so happy I am in as good shape as I am to be able to sustain my training and continue to pull out these races - despite it all.

Thanks for stopping by --- please leave a comment - I truly appreciate all your support!  

Cheer me on at the  Chicago Marathon!  

10/10/10

10 days and counting! 

RCHOP #4 - Making some "head" way!

Officially we are more than half way there and making "head" way!  Funny reference to the head.  I thought I would get used to the look, and well I guess I have in my own way been proud of how strong I have been, but it is wearing on me....

  I keep the end goal in mind, and think early November the treatments will be all completed! Yay!  It is hard to share what this is really like, but I am doing my best to update this blog and keep writing about my experiences.  When I don't feel well I really don't feel like talking about it.  So much more fun to share happy and strong thoughts, than when I am down, weak, tired and feeling ALL the symptoms of what chemotherapy can bring.  Denial is sometimes what keeps me strong, denial that my body will get weak and that the symptoms that are truly bugging me are going to slow me down.  OK -- I admit it, I have cancer and the chemotherapy is getting to me!  I am so SICK of being sick!  I don't like the way I look, my bald head, lack of beautiful hair, sunken eyes, pale face and lack of energy that I know I have deep inside.

This is a late post for RCHOP #4 - as it was last week.  Of course having the actual treatment of the "poison" going in your body is one thing, but the reaction to it is another.  The accumulative build up of the so far 2 1/2 months is starting to take affect!  

Symptoms that are BUGGING me are: 

1. Moodiness -- I think I am going to beat someone up.  Best I stay home and not let people bother me.  I had a few instances last week where I have no patience with people.  I have a very short fuse and expect people to be nice to me.  If they irritate me I let them know!  My friend Jessica says it is the prednisone.  Fun times!

2. Tingling of my fingers and toes when I run -- I realize now that the blisters on my feet was actually the fact that I can't feel my feet.  The tingling of my fingers when I type is very odd... it is tough to run in the trails as I feel I am going to trip and break an ankle at any step.  

3. Nausea & Heartburn - taking pills for this, but really doesn't help much.  It could be a lot worse I realize, but my appetite has lessened and I really am eating for fuel right now.  When I eat and the heartburn acts up it is nasty - just hurts, and eating is truly no fun. :(

4. Mouth sores -- OK - I thought I would escape this one after going through methatrexate and not having anything, but it is evident with the last cold sore on my lips and the inside of my mouth just burning from whatever food I put inside that they have arrived.  I take lysine like I did before and that seems to help, but the burning in my mouth is not going away so fast this time.  :(  I feel ugly enough as it is without having sores on my mouth.... hopefully it stays internal. :(

5. Exhaustion -- is that a symptom?  I nap daily.  I get so exhausted late at night I take it out on the people around me (see moodiness above).  It is truly tiring to be treated over and over.   I get blurry, fuzzy, dizzy --- lack of focus at work and really need to take a break.  Which I am planning and have been doing more and more.  I really need my rest.  So I don't become a BEAR! :)

OK - enough complaining...... thanks for listening.....

___________________________________________

But with all that said -we received week SUCH GREAT NEWS from Doc Mullally with the results from the PET scan!  The PET scan showed tremendous results and minimal cancer remains in my body.  It works - it's gone!  My body is reacting well to the treatment and we are killing the cancer.  

Highlights from the Cooley Dickinson report:  "No metabolic activity is seen within supraclavicular nodes as was noted previously.  No activity is seen within a previously markedly metabolic pericardial node with node previously measured 9x16 cmm and now measures 10x7mm.   The spleen previously measured at 16cm in AP dimension is  now 12.5!  No metabolic activity suggestive of bone involvement.  Overall TREMENDOUS response to therapy has occurred with marked reduction of tumor volume & metabolic activity.  Mild residual metabolic activity remains.  SUV in the spleen has gone from 17 to 3.6.   

____________________________________________

Back to RCHOP #4 -- after meeting with the doctor and setting up shop in our usual place with my MAC, my work computer (which I am sorry - I didn't get to work) - my iTouch and iPad with Steve's headphones to listen to Pandora -- got my snacks and set up camp.  It has to be a funny sight if there are people in the waiting room to see us pile in to office with our bags ready for the day! :)  I downloaded a bunch of new music while they took some blood tests as my Blood Oxygen levels are getting lower (we hope to monitor them for Chicago - so I don't lose too much energy and may need some additional medication to combat).  Then listening to music and some new books on the IPad kept me busy throughout to the point where I did not even get a nap.  Which is a bummer, because the "Benedryl Nap" is amazing!  :)

New nurse in the office (training) -- didn't memorize her name, but she is all smiles and a joy to have in the back.  Her fun attitude and light heartedness made my day. 

Treatment ended around 4 pm on Monday so we were due back for the shot 24 hours later.  My mood was not good and I ended up in tears on the second day - accumulative affect of all of the drugs and time of treatment on my body.  I have no patience for "mean" people and just lost it.   It was good to talk to Dr Lindsay about it and I have since recovered.  :)


Inspirational Shirt of the Day:  2008 Boston Marathon
Charlie says that they are limiting the field to 25K runners so I best figure out if I am going to be in town to run this next year with the Dream Team!  :)  2009 was a good year for me, but before DetermiNation and before cancer!  My how things have changed in such a short time frame!


Halo Protex Skull Cap --- LOVE this cap --- need to get another black one!  :)   Wish it came in pink and dark purple...  for obvious reasons! :)

Below are some great photos of Dr. Lindsay's cute dog that wanders the office.  Her little feet are so quiet and soft and she really has a look of "love".

I love the photo with the patient's bag that says "Keep Calm" -- something I need to do right now, and always.  :)

Thanks for stopping by ---- please leave a comment --- I love to hear from everyone! 

Thank you to the BU for the flowers & Itunes certificate! 

Thank you to everyone for your cards and notes!  It truly means a lot to me!