Overview

Moving forward

November 7, 2009

It has been almost a month since my last post here and many thing have happened.  It has been difficult for me to add to this blog after completing the marathon.  I had completed my journey, what is left to do is close this chapter.

As an update, I back to running and unfortunately have upped my miles too soon.  I was doing an experiment.  I was trying to simulate running the NYC marathon, three weeks after the Chicago.  The experiment back-fired and I injured my left knee this time.  The same ITB problem I had on my right knee is now on my left knee.  Oh, well back to the drawing board.  Good thing I am not racing anything soon.

On the cancer front, I caught up with all my blood test.  I had to postpone all my tests due to the marathon.  My last blood test showed my tumor count is high again.  Hopefully, it is nothing; however two consecutive blood tests showed an upward trend.  I have a scheduled PET scan on Tuesday, which will tell if any cancer tumors are back.   I have to get this done because it has been a year since my last chemo, and again I postponed it due the marathon.

About this blog.  I struggle to find closure.  I had a wonderful journey to the finish line.  It was more than I expected.  I feel complete but I could not felt I could not out do myself with this blog.  Instead I created another blog and called it Waddling Tales: Stories of a slow runner.   I wanted to preserve all my memories of my first marathon.  Funny, I most often find myself reading my post again and would re-live the memory.  I am not going away.  I will always be here as much as you were there for me.

Cheers.

PS: Stop by and see my other blog.

Tags: running

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The finish (2 of 2)

October 13, 2009 

.....So Nessie and I go past the starting line.  While these 4 guys concentrate on keeping their alignment, I take in the sights and sounds.  There were spectators everywhere, on the streets, on the bridge, just everywhere.  Nessie was getting a lot of attention too.  Woohoo.  "Go worm go" I hear some shout.  I must apologize for the cultural limitation of some Americans....ahem. 

I just keep sticking to my pace and felt fine.  I was on the lookout for aid station 2 at mile marker 3 where my wife was assigned.  I see her and it was a refreshing sight.  She kissed me and I told her to call the kids to tell them I was following Nessie.  Nessie who?...she said.  The green worm!  Got it.  Jesus....I just love her. 

The kids were suppose to be at mile marker 8 or aid station 5 or Boys Town.  They will have fun there with all the gay guys performing.  Nessie was pacing at about 11 minute mile and got ahead of me when I stopped.  Then she disappeared.  I passed her lying down on the street and her runners are going in a corner to pee.  'Mates, we passed the loo back there and there is one coming up.'  But when you got to go you got to go.  Little did I know I was going to do the same because the next aid station, there was line in the toilet.  Oh..oh.  Like Nessie I got to pee.  So I relieved myself near a garbage dump.  Then I see ladies doing the same.  Whoa.  What the fart!  White asses (or arses) showing.  You go, girl.  Show your color. 

The distraction was not enough to keep me from feeling the slow pain coming from my ITB at mile marker 7.  I stopped and removed my ITB wrap and concentrated on changing my gait.  It will be a long day with 19 miles to go.  Boys Town did not disappoint me.  The gays were out in full force on two elevated stages.  One was ROTC routine with twirling wooden guns and dancing at the same time.

On the other platform were a bunch of gay guys dressed in girl school uniforms, plaid, white blouse, blue ribbons, pig tails, and dancing in a chorus line.  Around them were people giving you cheers.  No wonder they always won as the best aid station.  I saw my kids there with mom-in-law and greeted them.  They were having fun too.  I am off without Nessie.  Passing other aid station, they were mostly just giving you water or Gatorade with lots of encouragement.  I saw Elvis performing in one aid station.

I was on my own now but the crowds and cheer were non-stop in most areas.  We go back to the city and the crowd grew large again.  I stay hydrated and go pee when needed not bothering to look for toilets if not available.  My ITB pain and I have decided to co-exist mile after mile going through Greek Town, Little Italy and the Hispanic neighborhoods.  I get to mile marker 17 and was on the look out for Jamie, my PT.  All of sudden she shouts.....BO!  I stopped and hugged her.  I said I am in pain, Jamie, but I did something for her.  She had been asking if I was going to turn into a Kenyan so I wrote in the back of my shirt the words "kula vumbi wangu".  It was Swahili for "eat my dust" (got the translation from Google).    It was my message to the Kenyan runners as the see me from behind.  She thought it was hilarious and so did the folks at ACS when I showed it.  I think it beats any sign I saw out there.

Jamie at mile 17 - "eat my dust"

I get to Chinatown.  The Chinese dancing dragon was out to give Boys Town competition and the crowds were thick again, right up beside you.  Then comes the dreaded long stretch at mile marker 20.  I managed the pain from my ITB but now my hamstrings are cramping up.  I get to mile marker 22, and the aid station there was manned by students from De La Salle and they were cheering you.  I was numb already.  I would run/walk at times.  This was tougher than I thought. I am no longer looking at my Garmin for pacing.  I just want to get it done. 

The crowds grew larger again at mile 24.  People would jump and run with their friend/family to get them home.  I was alone.  I plan to turn into a Kenyan for Jamie and finish hard but that is all gone.  My legs felt heavy but I hang on and did not stop running.  I get to mile marker 26 and I still could not see the finish line.  Somebody shouted..."Go Bo go.  There are no more miles, you just have two blocks to go.  You are done with miles, just blocks to go." 

I go right on Roosevelt Ave. and up a bridge hill (a hill is big when you are in pain) and the crowds were so thick but no sign of the finish line.  Then I make a left and all of a sudden it opens to wall-to-wall people and you see the finish line 200 meters ahead.  Right there within my reach.  I forget about the ITB pain, the cramps, the heavy legs, and just headed straight for the line.  All my pent up emotion and memories came rushing forward as I neared the finish line.  I was running in tears.  I remember being diagnosed with cancer, the surgery, pain of chemo, the long training to get this far, and those who have helped me.  You.  I was really running for you, especially Dr. GarryM.  I love my primary doctor.  I thought of my wife who is always there for me and my supportive family.  I felt blessed.  I felt complete. I was going to make it.  I was weeping when I crossed the finished line and not even thinking of the time.  I have completed my journey.  I have finished.  I am alive.  Thank you.  Thank you for being with me. 

Cheers.

What next?

Tags: Running

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The finish (1 of 2)

October 12, 2009 

(NOTE:  This is a two-part post.  I normally limit my post so it will not be a lengthy read and to focus on one message only.) 

The clock read 2:20 am Sunday, October 11.  I had set the alarm for 4:00 am but I am already awake.  My wife is still asleep while I hear Maggie-the beagle snoring at the foot of our bed.  What a dog's life she has.  I went to bed at 8:00 pm but had awaken and could not sleep anymore so I took out my writing pad. 

The house was very quite.  It was still very dark outside.  No wind.  Just stillness.  The last time I had moments like this was when I was still hooked up to my portable chemo pump and could not sleep.  All I hear was the buzzing, every 90 seconds (I counted it in boredom), pumping more chemo drugs.  But tonight there was no buzzing, just me and my thoughts.  It will be a good day. 

So I got dressed.  Made the wife coffee and bagel, while she took Maggie out.  We have to be downtown by 5:00 am because she is a medical volunteer.  I had my usual PBJ sandwich and banana.  I had prepared my clothes ahead and had written my name in front.  I also had a special message to the Kenyans written in the back of my shirt (will tell you about it in part 2 because I need the picture).

Reaching downtown, I helped my wife get registered as a Medical Volunteer and pointed her to the medical tent.  She kissed me good luck and I went to the American Cancer Society tent to get ready.  I was getting cold.  The temp was 32F or 0C getting up to mid-40F by mid-day.  Do I change to my long pants but decided on keeping my shorts, long sleeves, gloves, and hat.  I left my bag at the ACS tent, and there was parade of all ACS charity runners to the start. 

At 7:00 am, I was at the corral for 5 hours 30 minute finish or about 12 minute mile pace.  There were many people all around, runners, families, volunteers, and others.  The corral closed at 7:15 and 45,000 runners were crammed in.  We were packed.  I craned my neck to see forward and you see clothes just flying off being thrown to the side but not reaching.  Mostly sweaters and pants.  People were discarding their warm clothes.  I hear the starting horn.  My adrenalin is up and we inch forward.  As we surge forward I step on discarded clothes. I see runners in costumes too.  I was standing beside a German national on his 19 marathon at age 70's I think.  He was wearing a shirt from NYC marathon.  Wow.

From a far I see this green worm.  As it moved closer to me I had to smile because it reminded me of friends in Scotland.  It was Nessie, Skye, from Loch Ness.  Four guys carrying Nessie on their shoulder for the benefit of cancer research www.Charitableness.co.uk.  Chicago is their 8^th and final race after completing 7 already.  They were in GNR.  How cool is that?  Did you send it here to accompany me run?  When I saw it I decided to run behind them.

So off I go with Nessie.  I love it.

Cheers.

PS:  This is me after the finish.  I felt like Muffs wrap in solar blanket with the medal

Tags: Running

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I did it....

October 11, 2009

.....I finished the 2009 Chicago Marathon in 5:43:07.  I ache all over including those in my fingers (joke).  I have many things to tell but just very tired for now.  It was very emotional for me to cross that finish line.  All the pent up emotions just came gushing out. 

I will tell you more about it tomorrow including the message I wrote in my shirt to the Kenyans.

Life is awesome.  Thank you for all your support and prayers.  I really appreciate all of them.

Bo

Tags: Running

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Charity Runner Dinner

October 10, 2009

I just go to write something about dinner last night.  American Cancer Society hosted a dinner party for all its Charity Runners.  I went with my wife at The Westin Hotel downtown Chicago.  The event was a wonderful experience.  We got to meet other charity runners, families, athlete survivor (cancer survivor running the marathon), and volunteers. 

We shared out table with Jeff and his friend, Lindsey, and Leanne with her mother.  Jeff and Leanne are charity runners.  Jeff is running in memory of his grandfather while Leanne to honor her mother, Kathie, a cancer survivor.  There were many stories of survival, memories, and love.  Mine among them.  Leanne shared a tearful story about herself when she had bad infection of her foot which could have led to amputation and yet she is survived, and about to run her first marathon. 

The night also honored those cancer survivors.  There were many of us.  Young and old.  Each with their own story.  I looked around and we were surrounded by those who care for us-families, friends, and volunteers.  I wish I can do justice in describing that moving night.  It was a celebration of memories and thanksgiving.  There is more to be done in finding a cure for cancer, I only wish that there are more of us survivors. 

I will back next year as a Charity Runner and I hope you continue to follow me and support me as well. 

Cheers. 

They gave me a medal as a survivor and a Charity Runner. Irish and me.

PS:  At the end of the dinner and as the people were leaving.  All the volunteers lined up the hall and cheered.  It was like running through a gauntlet of people cheering you for your effort and giving thanks.  Amazing night.

Tags: Running

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Almost at the starting line

October 9, 2009 

It is down to 1 day, 17 hours, 4 minutes, and a couple of seconds. 

No much going on.  I am really sticking to the tapering program for the marathon.  Tuesday, I did 3 miles and then yoga (I added this).  Wednesday did 6 miles easy run.  Thursday (yesterday), 2 miles and soak in the hot pool at the gym.  Today, I went to my PT session with Jamie, who gave my legs a good rub down and no exercise. 

Jamie notice the big rash on both side my upper legs due to roller foaming my ITB.  She asks in a scolding manner....'why?  how often do you use your roller foam, Bo?'  Well, everyday, twice a day sometimes while watching TV.  Too much?  Yeah!  Oops.   She said that's really an athlete's problem of over doing things.  Anyway, she really gave my legs a good massage.  Thanks, Jamie of Novacare...there happy now? 

She also asks, what song I will be humming (she remembers my previous blog Sept. 21 running 20 miles) and if I will be turning into a Kenyan again.  Who knows?  But the plan is;

• start with the 12 minute pace group for the first half
• chase the 11 minute pacer and hope to catch him at mile 20
• and bring on the Kenyan home....it's on, baby
• or waddle home to the finish line like a penguin and take in the experience.

I guess we will see.  Like you and the rest who have been sending me messages, greetings, and emails, many are looking forward to my post race report.  I wish I can take a video or a camera.  I got to plan this better, maybe next year.  

Tonight, my wife and I will attend the dinner by American Cancer Society for all its Charity Runners.  It will start the festivities leading to the race.  Then tomorrow, I go and pick up my packet.  Bib number 30865.   

I am almost there towards the end of my journey.  I am not sure what will happen.  But I am sooo grateful to those who have helped.  Running or cancer, whichever is the cause, has transformed me.  Maybe it will transform me to a Kenyan.  :o) Nonetheless, this Sunday is my baptism of fire and I know you are all there to witness it. 

Asante (Thank you...in Swahili-my second language) 

PS:  You can track me to the finish with this website.  It will send text or email as I cross 5K, 10K, 15K, to the finish.  For non-US resident, if your mobile accepts email you will get it.  Look for my name, Bo Alvarez, once sent you will receive confirmation which is needed to be entered back.  You need to create a username or enter your email

http://live.activeresult.com/msg/MSG-signup.tcl?event_id=37

Tags: Running

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A good weekend.

October 4, 2009 

6 days, 8 hours, 39 minute, and a couple of seconds.  That's the count down time to the marathon next Sunday. 

So, I woke up this Sunday morning going through the routine of preparing for the marathon.  Woke up 5 am, since I was going to go the group run, ate my peanut butter sandwich, and even wore the same clothes I was going to wear for the race.  Except I think I would need running gloves.  It was pretty chilly. 

Today's run was going to be 8 miles.  It was still dark for the 6:30 am start but as always, the pair of marathon maniac were there--Beth and Danielle.  This time around there were four of us in the 12 minute group, and as Danielle said to me 'wow, that was double the people from last weekend'.  Yes, Danielle...it is crowded ;o)  She sported a new 'do too (nice), while Beth had recovered from her ankle problem.  They also lead the Saturday group runs, so these ladies always log double miles on weekends.  

I am glad I met this two ladies.  They give encouragement on what is possible and I see the drive they have.  Both will not be running the Chicago but instead will be doing Des Moines marathon on October 18 and the Marine Corp Marathon on October 25 (I told you they are maniacs and are proud of it).  Good luck, ladies.  It was great running with you.  Thanks.  Until next year, again.

From left: Beth, me, and Danielle

Over the weekend, I went back to my old health club-Galter Life Center.  Well, it is more like a medical fitness facility which is associated with the hospital where I had my chemo treatment.  I had put my membership put on hold when I was diagnosed with cancer and it time to go back.  Besides, my sights is already for next year and how I will train better to avoid injuries.  First thing I did was go back to my yoga class not only for the stretching exercises but to see my old friends there.  They were surprised and very much glad to see me back.  They knew what happened to me was very glad for my return. 

As always, I like to have fun.  Like during my 'graduation day', when I created my own diploma, I went to class with a mock up of my race number across my ACS shirt.  That got them going.  Helen, my yoga teacher liked it and so did Ken (you might say he is my seat-mat-e in class).  Ken had run marathons before was giving me advise and motivation.  He is on a quest of celebrating his 70th birthday next year by passing more than 24,000 miles of running.  The way he puts it, he would like to have run the distance of circumnavigating the earth on his 70th birthday.  He said is he close.  That sound like what Skye can do.  I love it.

From left: Ken, Helen, and me (the number 30865)

That was my weekend.  So the plan is still to taper off.  No more running, I promise.  Just yoga and swimming.

Cheers.

Tags: Running

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Graduation day remembered

September 30, 2009 

We have our own ways to mark milestones or any significant event.  There are mile markers for runners (or kilometer for the rest of the world), birthdays, anniversaries, etc.  We remember them because they define us or worthy of remembering for whatever reason. 

I do the same.  This time last year was my chemo "graduation day".  I clearly remember this day last year.  It was a Tuesday and it was a very anxious moment for me.  I remember saying a prayer that day when I woke up.  I prayed because I want everything to be fine; no surprises, no allergic reaction to chemo, no drama.  It was my last chemotheraphy; my last mile marker - the 12th cycle. 

I remember I also wanted the last one to be memorable, so I went to the hospital dressed in graduation toga.  I created a diploma which says Summa Cum Laude (with highest honors) and had asked my doctor to sign it.  I still smile seeing the picture.

Two days before that, I wrote about the surprise "care package" I received from Skye containing soap, candle, and chocolates.  (Link to September 28, 2008 posting Note: You might need to click twice)  Wow.  I still remember the decadent feeling.  I received other greetings and gifts, and it was very much appreciated.  Thank you. 

Fast forward to this morning.  I woke up and greeted the beautiful morning giving thanks.  Sun was out.  Cool 60F weather.  I was not going to the hospital, instead I was going out to run with my wife.  I asked her if she remember this date last year.  And, when she remembered the significance of the day we talked of what we did that morning.  The irony of this day is not lost to me much less the significance of me being here.  Others pave the way for me to be here. 

After some miles, my wife told me she was turning back home and I continued on my own.  Unburdened, I turned up the pace.  Alone with my thoughts, I remember those who have helped me and those who passed due to cancer.  I especially thought of my primary doctor, Dr. GarryM, who is currently undergoing chemo for pancreatic cancer.  That is so unfair.  

I was literally running for my life and Dr. M's life.  I did interval runs; running at 9 min pace for a mile and walking for a minute to recover.  I let go in high stride and strong back kick, and held steady.  That's it, Bo.  Listen to you hard breathing and savor each breath.  They are gifts of life along with the pains in your knees and your back.  Stay strong and do the best you can.  

At the end of my run, I met up with my wife.  We passed by the grocery and walked home.  It should have ended there but after my run I resolved to keep on running whenever and wherever I can, but most especially on my "graduation day."  It is special.   

What's your special day?  Find it and I am there with you. 

Cheers.

Tags: Running

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