Marathon in San Diego!
My readers,
I completed the marthon on June 6, 2010 as planned! Seven hours, 13 minutes, and 24 seconds. Injury free! Thank you very much for cheering me on from a distance. I had loads of fun on the course and I've got photos to prove it!
Thank you again for your generous contributions to the LLS...you're bringing hope to many families and a cure for blood cancers.
If you would like to train for a marathon and raise awareness and funds for the LLS to beat blood cancers, please visit the TNT webpage at www.teamintraining.org
Have a wonderful summer! Sending you my love, hugs, and gratitude.
I completed the marthon on June 6, 2010 as planned! Seven hours, 13 minutes, and 24 seconds. Injury free! Thank you very much for cheering me on from a distance. I had loads of fun on the course and I've got photos to prove it!
Thank you again for your generous contributions to the LLS...you're bringing hope to many families and a cure for blood cancers.
If you would like to train for a marathon and raise awareness and funds for the LLS to beat blood cancers, please visit the TNT webpage at www.teamintraining.org
Have a wonderful summer! Sending you my love, hugs, and gratitude.
Final week of training
Week 16- May 29, 2010
Today was our final week of training! When I left home this morning, I was a little taken aback because it was not dark! The street lights were on a normal schedule with no flashing amber. The highway was dotted with cars so I did not have the luxury of speeding. The sun rose long before we met up with the bridge. It was warm and humid.
When I started out with TNT on February 13, it was my plan to train for the half marathon; little did I know at that time that I would take on the challenge of the marathon. Week after week for the past 16 weeks my team hit the asphalt in preparation for the big event on June 6th and today we were fully declared “marathon ready”. I could not have completed the training journey without the support of my husband, children, relatives, teammates, coaches, supporters, and of course my training buddy- Shanti!! I was told that nobody gets to the starting line alone, there is always someone or many people next to you encouraging, supporting, and even pushing you along the way.
Thanks to all of you who have contributed toward my fundraising campaign and kept me company with your love, care, encouragement, good wishes…on this training journey. I still need you to get me to the starting line and to the finish line!
Our training culminated with a scrumptious breakfast for our team and honored teammates at the Atchana’s restaurant in the Mutiny hotel. Many thanks to teammate Siri and her sister for hosting this event for us!
http://findlocal.sun-sentinel.com/miami/restaurants/thai/atchanas-east-west-kitchen-miami-restaurant
Thanks again to everyone for your contributions to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society…those who are afflicted with blood cancers are grateful for all that we do to raise awareness and money to fund research that would one day find a cure.
Keep an eye out for my marathon posting! Think of me on June 6th as I complete this walking journey =)
Just 10 miles!
Week 15
May 22, 2010
Yes, it was just 10 miles! Coach Joe and I chatted so much on our walk that before I knew what was happening, we were back at Kennedy Park. Once again, we got a chance to see the beautiful Miami sunrise from our very own bridge. I refer to the Rickenbacker as a friend because over the past several weeks of training, I've grown to love the bridge.
Ah! I forgot to take my hat! How could I have remembered my hat when the sun was still asleep when I left home?
Please continue to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
I went hat shopping!
Photographer: Shirley Pico
May 20, 2010
So, I went hat shopping last evening and left the store with this hat and $11.00 less in my pocket. With camera in hand and new hat on head, I went to breakfast with with my friend this morning. I got a few odd stares from the guests at the local McDonalds. After all, the sun was barely up, but I pretended not to notice them.
Now, a lot of thought went into this piece of accessory- this hat met all the requirements...bendable, ample shade, not too frumpy, affordable(I might have to ditch it in San Diego), light weight, and of course, a hat that won't make my children ask, "did you pay money for that?"
My new marathon accessory will be tried and tested on May 22 when I do my 10 mile training!
Readers, let me hear from you!
20 miles...I did it!
Yesterday was week #14. Saturday, May 15, 2010
It felt as if I had just gone to bed when I was startled out of my sleep with the noise of the radio at 3:06 A.M! I quickly sat up, rubbed the sleep out of my eyes, and sprung into action. My clothes for today’s training were already laid out since Thursday night. Yes, Thursday night! Hey, it was my first 20 miles of walking (at one shot) ever in my life!! Armed with my bag with all my stuff, peanut butter sandwich, and my coffee, I left home for Kennedy Park wishing that my training buddy, Shanti was with me. Shanti has a toe injury and has been water training for three weeks! Please send her your positive thoughts and encouragement.
The 20 miles training was a character building experience for me. It took me 5 hours, 49 minutes, and 54 seconds to complete the distance! This time included: bathroom stops, water stops, stretching, shaking tiny grains out of my shoes, and rubbing my covered cheek with biofreeze. Oh my goodness, I didn't know that someone’s behind could experience such intense pain.
At about mile 14, my left cheek started to hurt so I began massaging it- yes, in public!!! We stopped. My coach showed me a stretch which I did on the bench at a bus stop. We walked on some more but the pain just won't stop. I stretched myself out on the sidewalk and did the "glute stretch" that I know works. It didn't. I then proceeded to pull my pants down (only the back) and roll on the biofreeze on my cheek while someone gave me cover. Ah, it gives new meaning to applying make-up on ones cheek! Thanks to my brother for thinking up this line! The biofreeze cooled the cheek, but the pain still radiated down the hamstring. The only thing that stopped/eased that pain was a light jog.
Although the sun was hot and it felt like 125 degrees, I did not give up nor did I think about how much longer I had to walk. I simply put one foot in front of the other. It was when I saw the "Montys" sign I knew that I was almost there. Strange, I didn't feel tired at that time. I was on a "total high". My cheeks (the exposed ones) were toasted, the sweat washed off my hair color (just kidding), I smelled like a goat, but I did it. Yes, I did! I now know in my heart, for I have experienced it, that training for a marathon is more mental than physical. I truly have to let my body travel along with my mind. I am trusting my mind to take me through the next 6.2 miles on event day on June 6th.
Yesterday's training once again showed me that there are people in our lives who truly understand the concept of "paying it forward". Several past TNT members showed up to be our "water angels". We were treated to sliced oranges, pretzels, water, gatorade, energy gels, and of course, a bountiful supply of encouragement and support.
It took me about half hour to get home and get this...I could hardly get out of the car because my body was so stiff. Walking to my garage door was painful! Upon the advice of my coaches, I tried to take a cold shower, but that didn't work out, so I took a "less than warm" one. I was careful not to sit around the house (I needed to keep moving) so I did housework!!!! Not much HW though, I was too much on a "high" to finish any tasks.
Guess what? I was in bed by 8:15 P.M:) This morning my daughter treated me to breakfast at Dunkin Donut and a movie with my favorite actress in the comfort of my living room.
I wonder how long it would take me to finish the 26.2? My friends, family, and readers I thank you very much for your support and encouragement. I am truly blessed to have you in my life.
For those who are afflicted with blood cancers, my 20 miles of training pales significantly when compared to their daily battle. Please continue to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by sending whatever donation you can afford to help find a cure for blood cancers. I encourage you to visit: http://www.teamintraining.org/ for more information on how you can contribute to this cause. For those of you who have already contributed, I thank you again.
I also encourage you to take on the challenge of half marathon or marathon. You can do it, yes you can!!!
It felt as if I had just gone to bed when I was startled out of my sleep with the noise of the radio at 3:06 A.M! I quickly sat up, rubbed the sleep out of my eyes, and sprung into action. My clothes for today’s training were already laid out since Thursday night. Yes, Thursday night! Hey, it was my first 20 miles of walking (at one shot) ever in my life!! Armed with my bag with all my stuff, peanut butter sandwich, and my coffee, I left home for Kennedy Park wishing that my training buddy, Shanti was with me. Shanti has a toe injury and has been water training for three weeks! Please send her your positive thoughts and encouragement.
The 20 miles training was a character building experience for me. It took me 5 hours, 49 minutes, and 54 seconds to complete the distance! This time included: bathroom stops, water stops, stretching, shaking tiny grains out of my shoes, and rubbing my covered cheek with biofreeze. Oh my goodness, I didn't know that someone’s behind could experience such intense pain.
At about mile 14, my left cheek started to hurt so I began massaging it- yes, in public!!! We stopped. My coach showed me a stretch which I did on the bench at a bus stop. We walked on some more but the pain just won't stop. I stretched myself out on the sidewalk and did the "glute stretch" that I know works. It didn't. I then proceeded to pull my pants down (only the back) and roll on the biofreeze on my cheek while someone gave me cover. Ah, it gives new meaning to applying make-up on ones cheek! Thanks to my brother for thinking up this line! The biofreeze cooled the cheek, but the pain still radiated down the hamstring. The only thing that stopped/eased that pain was a light jog.
Although the sun was hot and it felt like 125 degrees, I did not give up nor did I think about how much longer I had to walk. I simply put one foot in front of the other. It was when I saw the "Montys" sign I knew that I was almost there. Strange, I didn't feel tired at that time. I was on a "total high". My cheeks (the exposed ones) were toasted, the sweat washed off my hair color (just kidding), I smelled like a goat, but I did it. Yes, I did! I now know in my heart, for I have experienced it, that training for a marathon is more mental than physical. I truly have to let my body travel along with my mind. I am trusting my mind to take me through the next 6.2 miles on event day on June 6th.
Yesterday's training once again showed me that there are people in our lives who truly understand the concept of "paying it forward". Several past TNT members showed up to be our "water angels". We were treated to sliced oranges, pretzels, water, gatorade, energy gels, and of course, a bountiful supply of encouragement and support.
It took me about half hour to get home and get this...I could hardly get out of the car because my body was so stiff. Walking to my garage door was painful! Upon the advice of my coaches, I tried to take a cold shower, but that didn't work out, so I took a "less than warm" one. I was careful not to sit around the house (I needed to keep moving) so I did housework!!!! Not much HW though, I was too much on a "high" to finish any tasks.
Guess what? I was in bed by 8:15 P.M:) This morning my daughter treated me to breakfast at Dunkin Donut and a movie with my favorite actress in the comfort of my living room.
I wonder how long it would take me to finish the 26.2? My friends, family, and readers I thank you very much for your support and encouragement. I am truly blessed to have you in my life.
For those who are afflicted with blood cancers, my 20 miles of training pales significantly when compared to their daily battle. Please continue to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by sending whatever donation you can afford to help find a cure for blood cancers. I encourage you to visit: http://www.teamintraining.org/ for more information on how you can contribute to this cause. For those of you who have already contributed, I thank you again.
I also encourage you to take on the challenge of half marathon or marathon. You can do it, yes you can!!!
weeks 12 and 13
Week 13- May 7, 2010
I did not meet with my team. My thoughts kept me company as I walked the tracks at MDC.
Week 12- May 1, 2010
18 miles. I had to cancel this training due to an unscheduled out of town trip.
I did not meet with my team. My thoughts kept me company as I walked the tracks at MDC.
Week 12- May 1, 2010
18 miles. I had to cancel this training due to an unscheduled out of town trip.
Another 10 miles!
Week 11
April 24, 2010
Another 10 miles this week!
Thanks for your support everyone:)
16 miles today!
Week # 10- April 17, 2010
There is always a first time- today, for the first time, I walked 16 miles in 4 hours and 3 minutes! It wasn't pain free, but it was injury free. This morning, my coach and I started out from Kennedy Park just about 5:15 A.M. and once again made our way to the Miami Hill, the Rickenbacker Causeway, where we became one with "the bridge". We kept a brisk pace. It was a good walk. Coach Joe and I never run out of conversation!
Hunger kept me company for just a few moments. For those of you who know me, I like my food and I don't like being hungry. My fuel belt consisted of four water bottles and a pouch for storing my energy gel! Ah...energy gel = food; not exactly "beef and rice", but something to keep me going.
At mile 14, my right instep began to hurt. The pain radiated to my toes and only subsided slightly when I curled them under. The last mile was a challenge, but I made it back to my team without slowing my pace. I left Kennedy Park with my training buddy Shanti, knowing that my temporary pains will go away.
What about the pain of those afflicted with blood cancers? My readers, thank you again for your generous donations. The LLS and blood cancer patients thank you. Please visit http://www.teamintraining.org/ to find out more about Team In Training and how you can also train to complete a marathon, raise funds for the LLS, and help toward finding a cure for blood cancers.
Have a pleasant day everyone!
There is always a first time- today, for the first time, I walked 16 miles in 4 hours and 3 minutes! It wasn't pain free, but it was injury free. This morning, my coach and I started out from Kennedy Park just about 5:15 A.M. and once again made our way to the Miami Hill, the Rickenbacker Causeway, where we became one with "the bridge". We kept a brisk pace. It was a good walk. Coach Joe and I never run out of conversation!
Hunger kept me company for just a few moments. For those of you who know me, I like my food and I don't like being hungry. My fuel belt consisted of four water bottles and a pouch for storing my energy gel! Ah...energy gel = food; not exactly "beef and rice", but something to keep me going.
At mile 14, my right instep began to hurt. The pain radiated to my toes and only subsided slightly when I curled them under. The last mile was a challenge, but I made it back to my team without slowing my pace. I left Kennedy Park with my training buddy Shanti, knowing that my temporary pains will go away.
What about the pain of those afflicted with blood cancers? My readers, thank you again for your generous donations. The LLS and blood cancer patients thank you. Please visit http://www.teamintraining.org/ to find out more about Team In Training and how you can also train to complete a marathon, raise funds for the LLS, and help toward finding a cure for blood cancers.
Have a pleasant day everyone!
Stop Thinking- Just do it!
Photographer: Scott Kaldahl
Okay, so I updated my web page and forgot to write the breaking news here! "Stop thinking, just do it" were the words of my husband as I mulled over the idea of pursuing the full marathon. Well,I did stop thinking about whether or not I'll do it, and made the decision to get on with the training. Yes, I am training to complete the San Diego Rock n' Roll marathon on June 6th!!!
April 10, 2010 (week 9)
This morning when my alarm clock went off at 4:00 A.M., I couldn't pinpoint from which direction the loud sound was coming! It seemed that I had just drifted off to sleep and next thing, I had to get out of bed. I left home at 4:37, the plan was to leave at 4:30, but I spent the extra minutes looking for my sun glasses and sunscreen- essential items for the Miami sun. Shanti, my training buddy, waited patiently as I ran back and forth into the house. As luck would have it, the day we left a few minutes late, we ran into a detour. At 4:55, we were not even at the U.S.1, so Shanti picked up her driving speed. No cops were out at that time which allowed us to get to Kennedy Park just after 5:00 A.M.
My walking goal was 14 miles, but I completed only 13. Reason: I did not read my weekly e-mail training schedule carefully! Coach Joe and I, once again started out before the runners- I was thrilled that we had a nice, long stretch of flat terrain before starting out on the Rickenbacker. By the time we got to the bridge, my legs were fully warmed up and I was ready for yet another hill climbing experience, or so I thought! We trudged up that hill with the wind pushing us back. It was even a challenge to have a conversation. The great thing about the return trip, was that our speed was "wind-aided".
How did I feel upon my return to Kennedy Park? Hot, sweaty, wet, elated, and proud! Was I tried? Most definitely, but not the kind of tired that made me want to crawl into bed.
Shanti and I finished up today's training by stretching on our new yoga mats and enjoying a small meal of carbs, protein, and water. We're taking this training business seriously!
Next week: 16 miles...ouch!
Thanks to everyone for helping me meet my fundraising goal. Thanks to all who continue to donate on my web page.
It's easier to go down a hill than up it but the view is much better at the top.~Henry Ward Beecher
Our Fabulous coaches and mentors!
April 3, 2010
Week # 8 (10 miles)
Today marks two months of training! Today, I became “one with the Miami bridge”, as I walked over it 6 times (3 return trips). My training began at 5:45 A.M, which meant that my alarm clocked buzzed in my ear at 4:30! We did not meet at Kennedy Park; we met at Wainright Park because today was just “hill/bridge work”. On my first trek over the Miami hill, I felt as if I was not moving- I attributed that to not having a stretch of flat terrain to get the legs adjusted to walking. Don’t really know. What I do know: I felt as if I was in blessed land once we started our down hill walk. What sweet relief! It got better as I made the other trips back and forth. Today’s training culminated with breakfast at a lovely restaurant in Coconut Grove. Thanks to Neville for treating us to the much needed nourishment!
My love and gratitude to all of you who have contributed toward my fundraising goal. I truly appreciate your kindness. Without your generosity, it would have taken me much longer to reach my goal.
Many thanks to my friend Shanti, who after meeting her goal of $3,000.00, campaigned actively to help me get to mine.
My readers, it is now my turn to assist my other teammates. I am kindly asking you to send me an e-mail at celebrating_life@hotmail.com and I will respond with the web pages of my teammates to whom you can donate.
Please continue to send me your positive thoughts and energy!
8 miles, just one more than 7
Miami SunriseWeek # 7 (March 27, 2010)
I received a call today (03/30)reminding me that my blog wasn't updated! I've had computer trouble for a few days now, hence the delay!
It was yet another beautiful morning at Kennedy Park on Saturday, March 27. I was very excited because it was the "8 miles" day for the walkers, and the last time I walked 8 miles at one shot was in 2007. Guess what? The 8 miles felt just the same as 7 miles! I felt really fresh when I was through with the training. Well, I was a bit stinky, but what would you expect after walking for two hours?
I also had my candy/cookie fundraiser sidewalk sale on Saturday. I raised some funds, but more importantly, I raised awareness for the mission of Team In Training and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I took some photos, but I can't find my camera...so, needless to say, I won't be posting any photos until that wayward camera shows up!
My readers, thank you very much for your encouragement, support, and donations. I'm almost at my fundraising goal. Your contributions will make a difference in the lives of those afflicted with blood cancers.
“To get through the hardest journey we need take only one step at a time, but we must keep on stepping” Chinese Proverb
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March 20, 2010 Week # 6
It was dark and cool when we began our seven mile walk this morning at 6:30. Coach Joe led the walking team with a brisk pace to the top of our “Miami hill”, and it seemed that not long after we started, we were back at Kennedy Park. Would I have the same feeling when we hit the 10 mile mark? I’ve often seen the sunset from the Rickenbacker Causeway, but have not had the opportunity to see the sunrise. Well, this morning I did, and it was truly a glorious sight.
Our training today was followed by the “Honored Teammate Breakfast”. We all got a chance to meet some of our honored teammates. The photo in this post is our Mission Board with some of their photos. A huge applause for our honored teammates who maintain a positive attitude throughout their treatment and face each day with courage and bravery. My readers, please continue to keep them in your prayers.
Coach Scott shared the Chinese proverb with us today…a fitting quote for our journey here in this world.
At this time of writing, I have 75% of my fundraising goal! Thank you!
Your generosity is the fuel for a cancer patient’s journey
March 13, 2010 Week # 5
Your generosity in the form of encouragement, support, and monetary contributions is the fuel for a cancer patient’s journey.
Many thanks again for your donations! Your support makes my training and fundraising lighter and brings hope to those with blood cancers. To my anonymous contributors, I send you my love and gratitude. For those who have promised to contribute, please don’t forget…many are counting on your support.
It was a lovely 69 degrees at Kennedy Park this morning at 6:15. It was good not to have to dress in layers. Coach Joe and the walking team did another six miles today! It felt really good Today’s entry is short because I have lots of housework to catch up on :)
This photo was taken last month on our first day of training. Dominic Clay, our honored teammate is at the back with his dad.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."- Confucius
This photo of the Rickerbacker Causeway was taken in 2009
Week 4
My friend Shanti picked me up at 5:45 this morning! It was 50 degrees at Kennedy Park when we arrived at 6:15, but it felt like 40!! This South Floridian was dressed in three layers! Our walking group started off at 6:30 sharp to cover a distance of six miles in the cool, crisp morning air. We walked to our “Miami Hill”, the Rickenbacker Causeway, but did not go over the bridge- our goal was to touch it and turn around. I removed one layer of clothing at the bridge and just held it in my hand. Fortunately for me, I did not have to carry it back because Lisa, our running coach took it from me to make sure that I kept good form while walking! I also wore my fuel belt today- I thought it was going to be a bother, but soon after I took off, I forgot that it was even there. Today’s training was followed by an Injury Prevention Clinic. After listening to the Physical Therapist, one thing I know for sure, I’ve got to take care of these weak knees!
Our training ended today on a very high note…Karina, one of our teammates reported that her young friend for whom she is running just went into remission from her blood cancer! What wonderful and blessed news. My readers, Karina and all us at Team In Training thank you for your support and your generous donations. Thanks again to all who have already contributed to my fundraising goal. Many thanks to all who have shared my web page with your family, friends, and colleagues. Let’s all continue to raise awareness and money to fund research for a cure...one step at a time, one mile at a time.
Dominic Clay: Our Honored Teammate
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On August 22, 2007, shortly after his 3rd birthday, Dominic was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Surgery was scheduled the following day to place the central line medi-port in his chest which would allow the doctors to administer IV fluids and chemo directly to his main artery. The very next day Dominic began his 3-1/2 year chemotherapy treatment. The first 7 months of treatment were very tough on him. He received daily does of oral chemo, weekly lumbar punctures to administer chemo (similar to a spinal tap), and various cycles of steroids. After the first 7 intense months, Dominic shifted into the maintenance phase of treatment. While the maintenance portion of his treatment is somewhat less intense, it is still very aggressive and he still deals with some nasty side effects.
Throughout this challenge, Dominic has shown all of us his strength and resiliency in dealing with leukemia. He continues to inspire his family, friends, and supporters by always maintaining a positive attitude and letting us know what it truly means to be a survivor. His team of doctors, nurses, and specialists are amazed at his energy and enthusiasm during his visits and his genuine care and concern for everyone at Miami Children’s Hospital. We truly feel blessed to have Dominic as a part of our lives and have him as an honored teammate.
Today, 2 years after diagnosis, Dominic is by all outward appearances a normal, rambunctious 5 year old. We couldn’t be happier! His hobbies include various sports such as soccer, baseball and basketball. He loves riding his razor scooter and bike and is in the process of learning to ride his skateboard. He also loves anything to do with trains (model trains, Thomas the Tank Engine, train rides) and would probably consider his favorite place in the world to be the Gold Coast Railroad Museum down in South Miami. He is also a wonderful big brother to his two little sisters showing them nothing but love. Barring any major setbacks, Dominic’s treatment will end in November 2010.
Thanks for all of your support…go TEAM!!
The Clay Family
Michael & Genevieve
Dominic, Luciana, & Evelynn
"The woods are lovely dark and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep, and miles to go before I sleep." ~~Robert Frost
February 27, 2010
I don’t believe that Robert Frost was talking about an endurance event when he penned these words in his poem! I’m quoting Frost in today’s post because those whose lives are afflicted with blood cancers have “miles and miles” of hardship that they must endure before going into remission. Research funding is needed to increase the survival rate and find a cure- thanks to all who have contributed toward my goal; you are helping me keep my promise to LLS to raise awareness and money to fund research! To my anonymous donors: I have no way to expressing my gratitude except through this blog, so I hope you are reading this entry.
This morning marked week #3 of our training. It was 50 degrees when I arrived at Kennedy Park at 6:30 AM! Our team consists of individuals at different stages of athletic abilities, but one thing we all certainly have in common is SPIRIT! Everyone was cheerful and just ready to start off our hour of training. I walked with Coach Joe and another teammate and when the time was up, I felt like I could have gone on walking for another hour. Yeah, I’m building stamina! I’m working on skill. Skill? One needs skill to walk? Oh yes, we do!!!
Please continue to visit my web page (see link on right) to track the progress of my fundraising goal! The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is counting on your generosity. Little Dominic(our honored teammate)and all others diagnosed with blood cancers are counting on you.
I don’t believe that Robert Frost was talking about an endurance event when he penned these words in his poem! I’m quoting Frost in today’s post because those whose lives are afflicted with blood cancers have “miles and miles” of hardship that they must endure before going into remission. Research funding is needed to increase the survival rate and find a cure- thanks to all who have contributed toward my goal; you are helping me keep my promise to LLS to raise awareness and money to fund research! To my anonymous donors: I have no way to expressing my gratitude except through this blog, so I hope you are reading this entry.
This morning marked week #3 of our training. It was 50 degrees when I arrived at Kennedy Park at 6:30 AM! Our team consists of individuals at different stages of athletic abilities, but one thing we all certainly have in common is SPIRIT! Everyone was cheerful and just ready to start off our hour of training. I walked with Coach Joe and another teammate and when the time was up, I felt like I could have gone on walking for another hour. Yeah, I’m building stamina! I’m working on skill. Skill? One needs skill to walk? Oh yes, we do!!!
Please continue to visit my web page (see link on right) to track the progress of my fundraising goal! The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is counting on your generosity. Little Dominic(our honored teammate)and all others diagnosed with blood cancers are counting on you.
"For it is in giving that we receive" ~ St. Francis of Assisi~
February 20, 2010 (week 2)
The team gathered once again at Kennedy Park at 6:45 A.M for our second day of team training. It was not as cold as last week and that was a huge plus for me. We started off with warm ups and running/walking techniques. Next, we broke off into our groups for 45 minutes of walking/running. I walked at a brisk pace for the time we were out there-it was truly a beautiful morning for walking.
The Disney Princess Marathon Team welcomed us back in with cheers and hoots; Mica even rang his school bell for us!
Coach Scott shared with us a beautiful e-mail from someone who lost his 34 year old friend and brother-in-law to blood cancer. The story he shared reminded me again that I am blessed to be given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those who are afflicted with blood cancers…please join me in raising awareness and money to fund research that will one day wipe out these diseases. Won’t you please?
My sincere thanks to all those who have already donated to toward my goal.
The team gathered once again at Kennedy Park at 6:45 A.M for our second day of team training. It was not as cold as last week and that was a huge plus for me. We started off with warm ups and running/walking techniques. Next, we broke off into our groups for 45 minutes of walking/running. I walked at a brisk pace for the time we were out there-it was truly a beautiful morning for walking.
The Disney Princess Marathon Team welcomed us back in with cheers and hoots; Mica even rang his school bell for us!
Coach Scott shared with us a beautiful e-mail from someone who lost his 34 year old friend and brother-in-law to blood cancer. The story he shared reminded me again that I am blessed to be given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those who are afflicted with blood cancers…please join me in raising awareness and money to fund research that will one day wipe out these diseases. Won’t you please?
My sincere thanks to all those who have already donated to toward my goal.
First Day of Training
February 13
It was perhaps 47 degrees this morning when I met my team at 6:45 at Kennedy Park in Coconut Grove! Now, this is cold weather for us South Floridians! Most of us donned our sweaters over our training t-shirt and that was fine, but not for me. I had to borrow Ryan’s thick “up north” sweater to keep me warm. Thanks Ryan! Everyone was in great spirits and rearing to go, but we couldn't begin without doing our warm ups. I can’t remember the last time I did jumping jacks- thank goodness we only had to do 15. We broke off into three team- continuous runners, interval runners, and walkers. My team consisted of another walker and Coach Joe. Have you ever met anyone who has walked over 20 marathons? Well, I did and he is Coach Joe! I am delighted to be starting this endurance event with him. We did a total of 30 minutes of walking today- I kept a walking pace of just about 16 minutes per mile.
Our training was followed by a conversation with Mike Clay, the father of our honored teammate, Dominic. After listening to Mike speak about his Kindergarten son (who also came out to see us), I once again reiterated to myself that every single dollar I raise for this event helps toward a cure for blood cancers. Thanks to Coach Lisa for the heartwarming close to our first training day.
Friends, family, readers…please take a few minutes to contribute toward my fundraising campaign and share my web page and the TNT web page with others. Thanks for your support!
It was perhaps 47 degrees this morning when I met my team at 6:45 at Kennedy Park in Coconut Grove! Now, this is cold weather for us South Floridians! Most of us donned our sweaters over our training t-shirt and that was fine, but not for me. I had to borrow Ryan’s thick “up north” sweater to keep me warm. Thanks Ryan! Everyone was in great spirits and rearing to go, but we couldn't begin without doing our warm ups. I can’t remember the last time I did jumping jacks- thank goodness we only had to do 15. We broke off into three team- continuous runners, interval runners, and walkers. My team consisted of another walker and Coach Joe. Have you ever met anyone who has walked over 20 marathons? Well, I did and he is Coach Joe! I am delighted to be starting this endurance event with him. We did a total of 30 minutes of walking today- I kept a walking pace of just about 16 minutes per mile.
Our training was followed by a conversation with Mike Clay, the father of our honored teammate, Dominic. After listening to Mike speak about his Kindergarten son (who also came out to see us), I once again reiterated to myself that every single dollar I raise for this event helps toward a cure for blood cancers. Thanks to Coach Lisa for the heartwarming close to our first training day.
Friends, family, readers…please take a few minutes to contribute toward my fundraising campaign and share my web page and the TNT web page with others. Thanks for your support!
Kick Off!
February 6
Today we had our kick-off event at Dave and Busters in Hollywood. I got to meet some of my teammates and received vital information for our first group training, next Saturday. There were several speakers at the event, but the most touching words came from Franklin, a young boy, a cancer survivor. Franklin wishes that no child ever has to go through chemotherapy or battle cancer. He wishes that someday there will be no more Team In Training, for if TNT ceases to exist, then we’ve found a cure for blood cancers.
The honored teammate for the Dade training team is 5 year old Dominic Clay. Dominic was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on August 22, 2007, shortly after his 3rd birthday. Dominic has gone through aggressive treatment since his diagnosis, and barring any major setbacks, his treatment will end in November of 2010.
This week I walked only one day. I blame it on the cough I picked up at the beginning of the week. Serious- I’m not making excuses! I’ll make up for it next week
Thanks again to all who donated toward my fundraising campaign and also to those who pledged to contribute. I’ve received many, many encouraging words since I joined TNT on January 23rd…keep sending me your positive thoughts!
Today we had our kick-off event at Dave and Busters in Hollywood. I got to meet some of my teammates and received vital information for our first group training, next Saturday. There were several speakers at the event, but the most touching words came from Franklin, a young boy, a cancer survivor. Franklin wishes that no child ever has to go through chemotherapy or battle cancer. He wishes that someday there will be no more Team In Training, for if TNT ceases to exist, then we’ve found a cure for blood cancers.
The honored teammate for the Dade training team is 5 year old Dominic Clay. Dominic was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on August 22, 2007, shortly after his 3rd birthday. Dominic has gone through aggressive treatment since his diagnosis, and barring any major setbacks, his treatment will end in November of 2010.
This week I walked only one day. I blame it on the cough I picked up at the beginning of the week. Serious- I’m not making excuses! I’ll make up for it next week
Thanks again to all who donated toward my fundraising campaign and also to those who pledged to contribute. I’ve received many, many encouraging words since I joined TNT on January 23rd…keep sending me your positive thoughts!
Raising funds, finding a cure, saving lives...one mile at a time
Hello everyone! Back in 2007 when I announced to my dear friend here in Miami that I signed up for a half marathon, she immediately questioned my physical ability by asking, "with your two left feet?" Well, I did meet my goal of completing that self imposed physical challenge and now I am ready to take on a different challenge. This time around, I'm not thinking of my "two left feet" or aches and pains after a long training session, my little discomforts are nothing compared to what cancer patients and their families face head- on daily...
I'm training to participate in an endurance event (half marathon on June 6, 2010 in San Diego) as a member of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Team In Training. http://www.teamintraining.org/
All of us on Team In Training are raising funds to help stop leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and myeloma from taking more lives. I am completing this event in memory of my sister-in-law, Devi Jean Rampersaud Spencer and in honor of all individuals who are battling blood cancers. They are the real heroes on our team, and we need your support to cross the ultimate finish line - a cure!
Please make a donation to support my participation in Team In Training and help advance LLS's mission. http://pages.teamintraining.org/sfl/rnr10/erampersau
If you prefer to make a donation by check, please write to me at celebrating_life@hotmail.com and I will provide the necessary details. Your gift toward my event is totally tax-deductible- you'll get a receipt as soon as you hit that "send" tab
Thanks for your support!
Jan. 30
Over the past few days I've had the opportunity of meeting people whose lives have been touched in some way or the other with cancer. They shared stories of family members and friends who lost the battle and who won that battle. One message I bring to you is that they are very grateful for every single contribution that is made toward finding a cure. Many thanks for the donations I have received thus far.
I've got great news! My friend Shanti signed up for the San Diego event too. I now have a training buddy! Although my "official" training does not begin until February 13th, I have begun my own. This week I walked a total of 13.5 miles at the nearby college campus. At this point, I am doing a 17 minute mile - a little slow for now. I met a young man who sprinted one lap in 37 seconds! Now, I don't want to be a sprinter, but I do need to increase my pace. Won't you agree?
Stayed tuned for more updates! Send me your encouraging and positive thoughts- and your donations:)
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