26.2 This Run's For You!

This is my last training update for the big event in one week from today on October 18th. I am a proud member of Team In Training. Thank you friends, family and TNT for all of your support and prayers. San Francisco here we come! GO TEAM

Welcome, my name is Joanne Paskewich, the photo is my husband Bill, a former runner.

Read my training story below;

My story begins with the diagnosis of NHL to my husband in 2008. After a 14 month challenge Bill took his last sweet breath.

Because of advanced research and new medications, our time during the challenge was precious and I am truly thankful.

Most everyone knows by now that I began running as a total beginner, just like someone learning how to ride a bike or hold their breath under water.

Learning how to run long distance takes time, effort, perseverance and determination.

I am proud to say that I AM READY! My mind is pumped with enthusiasm and my body is finally healed and ready to pound the pavement in California.

I make no promises at this point as to how long it will take for me to cross that finish line. All I know is my husband will be smiling at me and my daughter Colleen and will touch the hearts of all our team members giving them joy as well, for he passed away from this awful disease, but he knows, we are all making a difference in the lives of others because of him and many who have had the challenge of blood cancers.

On Friday 10/9, I received a shot in my leg and one in my hip. It was something called ladacane to help the muscle knot,

(I called it the rock in my leg) to finally be released and for the hip joint to relax as it had quite the hard hit after my bike accident just a few weeks ago.

I still go to therapy two times per week, that was a blessing to find this person to work with me and my muscle ailments.

Yesterday I ran 5.5 miles with little pain in my leg and zero pain in my hip. Today, I ran my last Sunday training run of 10 miles. I'm thrilled to say I feel awesome.

As I was preparing my mind and body to take that initial toughest step, the one out the front door, I actually became a little sad to think that this chapter in my life is coming close to the end.

When I was running I spoke to Bill with a strong tone and asked that he run with me all the way, for a second I stopped and closed my eyes to visualize us running together.

I came home feeling so wonderful, took off my bits of gear & my sweat soaked clothes.

I thought again about this chapter end, reflecting back on how I've overcome many obstacles over the months of training, how incredibly hot it was in the southern summer heat, how I moved forward after my husband's passing and now I realize, I can look without fear to the next chapter in my life I will begin it with pride and even more determination.

I will keep training and running, all the while knowing my husband will be running right next to me.

In order for us to be successful in what we set out to do, we first must find our passion, then run to the finish line.

I promised my best friend that I would run with him, and so I am.

For those who have this challenge in their lives and in memory and honor of those who are watching from above,

THIS RUN'S FOR YOU!

I do believe with all my heart that if we are persistent and continue with this great effort to help fund research, then those with knowledge, will in fact, celebrate with us the cure to this disease.

With Sincere thanks and gratitude,

Joanne M Paskewich

Bill's wife & best friend

Please make a donation to support my participation in Team In Training and help advance LLS's mission.