8 miles, just one more than 7

Miami Sunrise


Week # 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.

Team Miami!

Photo was taken today,March 20, 2010.

“To get through the hardest journey we need take only one step at a time, but we must keep on stepping” Chinese Proverb

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

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