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08/25/2006: "Hitting My Stride"

Well it finally happened. My body finally woke up and realized what I am up to. Have you ever tried to get back in shape after a lay off (way too many years) and your body just seems to resist? I have been working out now for about 5 or 6 weeks and today, it felt like my body kicked in and understood that we are training for competition. I don’t know how else to explain it. Analogies like hitting my stride or getting into a rhythm, come to mind.

Today, I was fortunate enough to be able to go on a 9 mile run followed immediately by a 1-mile swim. The day before I put in a 30 mile bike ride. It dawned on me in the middle of the run today, just how lucky I am to be able to put in this kind of work. There have been times this past year or so where I could barely move or walk.

School starts Monday for the kids and as always, San Ramon School District will be advertising participation in the Primo’s Run for Education benefiting the education fund. They host a 5K and a Half Marathon. A few years ago I did the 5K and was disappointed last year that I couldn’t participate. I was in my last 2 months of chemo and had been hospitalized the month earlier for side effects. This year’s event is on October 8th and I am signing up for the Half Marathon!

I am still a ways from the athlete I was in my 20’s but I think I am moving in the right direction.

Replies: 2 Comments

on Saturday, August 26th, Chris said

Doug,
My emails to you at the last two addresses are bouncing back to me. Is it my problem or do you have a new one?
Chris

on Saturday, August 26th, Mary Miller said

Geeez Doug....a few little races....hmmmm...Jeanette and I do mention that you are are stronger, faster, smarter etc etc than a good many of us, whilst in the midst of radiation...I never thought of you as "Alpha" until now. This is so exciting. How do we sponsor you for Primo's Run? You are so right about Tom Hanks in Castaway. It is a very singular experience. Our friend, Laura Earley, who has survived a brain tumor, says the exact same thing. The rest of us must seem almost glib. I find the only way I can work out what you are going through is to make personal changes. Don't get excited. I am not running...but the mosty-vegan life has become an adventure and a learning experience. As always, you have taught all of us so much while walking through this land mine. I guess because there is really nothing any of us can do but send all positive energy your way, then paralleling your example and making changes for better health gives it all a certain closeness.....9 miles and a swim??? Is Jeanette beginning to feel like Elasta-girl? Dave, Kath and I send all our love all the time...a day does not go by...so glad to hear you have hit your zen!! See you in November...promise to have wheat grass shooters at the bar. xo