A much needed GREAT run!

Well... I'm still dealing with my ITB issue. I have bought a foam massage roller that I spend at least 10 minutes a day 2x a day rolling back and forth on. It's VERY painful... but it seems to be working as the pain lessens each day. I also started running with an IT wrap. That too seems to be helping with the pain. I've also discovered that a little ice and Motrin does wonders ;-)

I was having a tough time with training last week. I spent the week in Lake Arrowhead, so I was training on a very hilly course. The altitude didn't make things any easier. I was able to complete a half marathon on Saturday. I had some pain, and some miles that were tougher than others... but all in all, it was a great run! There was a large hill around mile 6. Once I hiked up the hill (seemed like a mountain!), there was a great view of the city of Pasadena (the half marathon was around the Rose Bowl and neighboring hills). It was one of those moments that reminded me why I love to run. It was liberating and for the first time in a few weeks I felt really great running! It truly was a "runner's high" :) I was beginning to get very nervous with the marathon less than 2 months away... so this successful run did wonders for my spirits!

This week has started off a little slower. The half marathon went great... but it left my knee sore for a few days. I was unable to run for my entire training today. Instead, I incorporated minute walks in between runs. I was able to finish the run and will continue to treat my ITB issue. I'm confident that my knee will continue to heal and hopefully tomorrow I will be able to run the entire time. Next up... the Disneyland Half Marathon this Sunday. My family is coming down to watch me and I have a few friends running with me. It should be a good time! Let's just hope my knee holds up to the challenge!

Here is the latest update on Alyssa... she was moved from ICU to the cancer ward last week. A good sign. The family is excited for the move "..this is home for us and we can slowly get started with Alyssa's rehab, the rehab unit is on this same floor so it works out well." They are not sure what's next. It looks like they will be there for about another month. Next week Alyssa will hopefully have another MRI to see how the inflammation (swelling) of the brain is doing and an eye test (she can't see right now - a lot of the swelling is on her optic nerve). According to her grandmother, Alyssa listens to a movie and smiles when she remembers the parts, still only muttering a few words, less than 10. Again, please keep Alyssa and her family in your thoughts and prayers.