Triumph!

Sunday, October 13, 2013 was a day to remember!

As the weekend approached, I learned that two more friends had signed up for my tenth anniversary marathon and celebration of the 38th anniversary of my arrival in Canada!  The fourth was not wearing the required shirt so was excluded from this finishing photograph!

As we stood on the start line at 8.45 AM on a perfect running day, cool temperature, bright blue sky and no wind, I had no idea what might lie ahead.  It was a miracle that I was standing there, ready to run, after a lead in that involved serious pain, heavy steroids and radiation just two weeks before. I determined just to have as much fun as I could on this beautiful day in the company of best friends.

The early going was easy, effortless and already fairly fast. By the end of the first mile the pace was set for 8.5 minutes per mile, a good bit faster than I thought my body would give.  The route is very beautiful, along by the coast with splendid views over the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the towering, snow clad Olympic Mountains. An army of eager volunteers and several bands ensured our comfort and ease of mind as we progressed. Distractions were everywhere when needed. Inward focus was easy when required.

We sailed effortlessly to the 20 mile mark in Oak Bay Village. My Garmin started to tell me that I was slowing down. I accepted that, with six miles to go, this was how it was.   My friends, probably astonished that I had got that far, never complained. At times they ran ahead, sometimes slightly behind, and from time to time, one or other of them would run right by my side. I have no idea whether they had a plan or whether this was just how things turned out. They are all capable or running a marathon under 3 hours so this was a long slow run for them for sure. Their equanimity, kindness and patience were a blessing for me on the day.

Despite the effort of the last few miles, the glorious downhill along Dallas Road down into the city loomed ahead. The fabled seven turns at the end were upon us! As we came to Belleville Street for the finish, we could hear the cheers of the happy welcoming throng and we ran side by side, now at a pace under 8 minutes per mile, to cross the finish line in 3 hours 55 minutes. 

I leaned heavily on my friends until I was sure I could stand alone. A caring medical volunteer tried to insist I visit the medical tent but I was having none of that. As we walked through the finishing tunnel, we were greeted by happy friends and supporters.

Given the length of time we had been out on the course, it did not occur to me to check for podium times. Several hours later, it emerged that I had finished in third place in my age category.  Who knew that old people run so slowly?! I have emailed the organizers to apologize for my rudeness in not attending the awards ceremony. It has always disappointed me to see empty spaces on stage as awards are given out.

Now, four days later, my body is recovering nicely and today I go back on immunotherapy in the hope to stalling the growth of the enemy within. I am happy to have overcome several serious challenges in being ready for a return to treatment. May it all turn out perfectly.  I am so happy to have completed another marathon.  In a sense, the battle against cancer is proving to be a marathon too. I just don't know where in the race I am.  I need to keep the pace going for now.  Peace and love to all my friends.