Running the Komen

Last year I ran my first 5K - the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in memory of Elaine and in honor of my mother and my friend Pam. Didn't do too badly (especially since I had been able to run 3 miles for only 2 or 3 weeks!) - I finished in the top half of the field.

This year I came in 711 out of 3070 with a time of 28:46. But, this year was mentally and emotionally draining, probably as hard as 2006 (the year I lost my friend to breast cancer). Each year, I have had friends to walk with me at the event, keeping me distracted and upbeat.

This year I was alone.

Members of the dance troupe usually form a team. However, a number of the ladies had purchased tickets to see the Bellydance Superstars in Newberry, SC, and others had purchased tickets to see Beats Antique performing locally the night before. Only 2 signed up to do the Race with me - and both had to back out at the last minute due to health issues (broken toe and pneumonia). I headed to the event solo.

I managed to hold myself pretty much together. Just a few tears were shed - and not all of them were for me. One elderly lady shuffled along with "In celebration of my daughter". I saw a gentleman who looked to be in his early 60s with "In memory of my daughter" on his shirt. In memory? She must have been young when she passed. A chemo-pale survivor wearing a scarf to cover her head told her daughter yes, she did have the strength to walk the course.

So, I ran. I even held myself together to stay for the awards - someone has to clap! And, I was glad that I did not decide to pull the covers over my head that morning and hide.