Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Running For Erin

I've been at a loss for what to do for our sick Tres Amiga, Erin. She's still super sick, still in and out of the hospital a little weaker with each hospitalization. Her attitude is amazing, optimistic, and faith-promoting. After visiting with her in Utah I resolved to be more positive and have more faith that things will eventually turn around. If she can do, by golly, I can too.

Each time I lace up to go out and run I think of her. Lately not a single run has gone by where I haven't thanked God for the opportunity I have to be healthy, to be running, and to realize something that simple can be taken from us so quickly. To honor my friend, my body, and my health I decided my races this summer were to be dedicated to Erin in hopes of her turnaround. I know its not "doing anything" and in the end it only makes ME feel better, but I hope in some small way the Lord feels those extra prayers and the extra pounding on the pavement in her behalf.
This weekend I ran a massive 10k. There were 60,000 runners. Insane, I tell you. I decided to 'go public' with my Erin-ness and spent most of the race answering the question "Who is Erin? Is she ok?" I got to spend my hour of running talking to strangers about my amazing friend and asking them for prayers. If nothing else, now more people in the world are shooting vibes straight to heaven for Erin. Some people misread my shirt and yelled "Go Erin! You're doing GREAT!" It made me teary but I thought, "that's right.. go erin! you ARE doing great! keep fighting!"

My heart breaks for my friend and I wish there was something I could do to make her better. But, until I make the amazing scientific breakthrough, I will continue to take care of my body and enjoy the health I have and pray that Erin will, too, be able to hit the pavement with me again one day.