Thursday, March 29, 2012

RAA Part 1


I am BACK!! I did it!

Running with Rev 3 is an experience I will never forget. These people are REAL and have a passion for helping others and kicking cancer to the freaking curb!!

I don't even know where to begin. I flew in on Sunday afternoon met the team which was made up of REV3 staff and volunteers as well as some folks from UCF. A quick trip to grocery store and then it began. At midnight we went down to the pier in Oceanside and with the ocean behind us stood in a circle and talked about why we were there. People began to share and dedicate their miles for the day. I can't tell you how touching it was to hear people saying they were running for my husband.
I was overwhelmed with sadness, excitment and even some grief. I didn't want to be in that "position" but I know that this is where we are in life and God has surrounded me with supportive people and opportunties.

LEG 1
I met my fellow teammate and cancer survivor, Kelsey who was just adorable!! We kicked off the run together in the rain at midnight! Our team then began on our first 50 mile, 8 hour shift, running through the night. I have never experienced anything so powerful. The van followed right behind us and lit the way on some very dark roads. We each ran 2-3 miles at a time and would run 3-4 times a shift. Inside the van there was laughter and anticipation as we all prepped for our runs and began to learn more about each other. This first leg would prove to be the most difficult out of the three 50 mile shifts I ran with the team. There were hills on top of hills with not much relief. There were many tears and reflection along the way. I felt safe, supported and encouraged by everyone. This is what makes Rev3 and Ulman Cancer Fund so amazing. When I ran I thought about my husband many times and the fight we are in and how badly I want to walk away winning! I know this is not in my hands but I am hopeful and feel refreshed and strengthened through this experience. While I ran I thought about close friends and new friends who also know what it is like to have that fateful day when you are diagnosed with cancer. It breaks my heart but also stirs a fight and passion deep within me that gives me courage to do more and be more. There were hills when my quads were burning and I was tempted to walk, but then I would think about the strength and bravery it takes to fight cancer and that would always help me pick up the pace. Facing cancer is not easy but it is important to know that you are not alone. When you are on the road with cancer you can’t stop or quit, you have to run, moving forward and dreaming of better tomorrows, and this is exactly what Run Across America is doing!! GO team!!!!

I was fortunate enough to run 2 more 50 mile shifts with the an amazing team.

I did things I never thought I would be able to do, and met some amazing people who I will never forget!!

More to come on that.....but until then please go check out the REV3 blog you can see the kick off video, track the team and see some amazing pics from the journey as well as DONATE.The team is RUNNING right now as I type. 24/7!

Also huge PROPS to our virtual team! They are doing a great job logging miles for TEAM DAVIS and it is not late to join in. If you are running and think cancer sucks you can help!

9 comments:

misszippy said...

So happy you had this experience! Sounds like you are part of an amazing team doing amazing things. Proud to be a part of TEAM DAVIS!

Molly said...

Yay!! What an empowering experience! I'm doing 12 today for Team Davis!!

Liz is getting back to her fighting weight said...

Wow what an amazing experience. I am praying for you and your husband. Rev 3 sounds like an amazing organization. You are such a strong, encouraging woman. Keep the faith, Run the race.

Cynthia said...

What a life affirming experience. I may have only met you once but I am so very proud of you and the awareness you are bringing to cancer. I remember the day my neighbor was diagnosed with cancer, he is like my grandpa and helped me so much when my fiance was deployed. He goes thru chemo and still has scares and is at the VA hospital every few months but I run for him often and pray and continue to pray for you and your family and the courage and strength you show us is amazing.

Heather Iacobacci-Miller said...

This is just such an inspiration - you are an inspiration!

Jess @ Blonde Ponytail said...

AMAZING! I'm so thankful you were and are a part of this Harm. YOU needed this as much as Rev3 and Ulman needed YOU!

Heidi @BananaBuzzbomb said...

I've "known" you for such a short period of time but you amaze me woman! We've got this!! PS How did I not know about the FB page? Just requested to join =)

Rebecca said...

I'd like to join in the virtual team, what do I do?

Kris said...

Awesome!! I'm glad you got to be part of this too. You,Ryan and your family are constantly in my prayers and my prayers are for him to win!! Keep fighting...keep on keeping on :)