And Just Like That....10/10/10 Is Over!!

So friends...I finished the Chicago Marathon on 10/10/10 and I did it for a great cause. We raised $1300.00 for the AHC Foundation. The marathon was not completed without quite a few challenges as to be expected when one sets out to run 26.2 miles. When I started the marathon, it was around 60 degress out, not bad at all. Over 1.5 million people came out in the city to cheer and support and that felt amazing. There were people of all ages, sizes and nationalities that were doing this race. And many were doing it for someone or something of value to them, a cause or in honor of a lost loved one. To be around such inspiration was overwhelming and emotional. I was surrounded by 45,000 of the most disciplined, inspirational and dedicated people that morning.

So now I'm running and I find myself sweating in the first mile and am more thirsty than normal. I made sure to drink water, gatorade, get hosed down and take my energy gel packs. At the half way point, I was at 2 hours, 5 minutes. Feeling pretty good. The course was so scenic and crowd support was awesome.

Each mile after 13 becaming more and more grueling. My body felt so depleted and I know I was getting dehydrated. It was getting hotter and hotter and I was nauseous. I kept reminding myself that the pain was temporary, this was not about me and that it was such a small struggle to endure, not a lifelong struggle like those that deal with AHC everyday. I also wanted to finish the race safely. I witnessed many people getting medical assistance and having to stop. So I took care of myself and finished in 4 hours and 36 minutes. It was 85 degrees when I crossed that wonderful line.

My marathon may be over, but my efforts to raise money and awareness for the AHC Foundation aren't. I will still be teaching yoga classes for this cause and telling everyone I know about it. Now that you know about it, please do the same and continue to support this cause just like you supported me through this life challenge.

With Such Love and Gratitude To All of You!!!!