I wrote this October 11, 2010:
After months of preparation and training, I stepped on the course to run the Chicago Marathon. Unfortunately, I was unable to finish.
As I was walking with a new found friend that day just before mile 16, I tried to convince myself I could keep going and she tried to convince me as well. I knew something not good was going on inside my body from about mile 13, but had tried to ignore it. But when she asked me again, I knew my body was clearly telling me I needed to go to the medic tent. Apparently, I was dehydrated and had the beginnings of “some type of heat illness” per the doctor at the medical tent just after mile 16. When they were finally able to get my blood pressure it was 94 over 42, pulse was 64 and my body temp was 94. What does all that mean? I really have no idea other than it was low and it meant I shouldn’t finish the race.
I would be fooling myself and others if I said I wasn’t disappointed. I could attempt to figure out why it happened when I thought I did everything I needed to do to be properly prepared. I could probably come up with several things I might have changed to keep the inevitable from happening; however, none of that will make any real difference.
Here’s what I do know: I did everything I knew to do to run that race. I know that nearly 2000 of the 38,000 runners dropped out of the race as well. I trained hard and had runs of 21 and 23 miles at home which means I was completely capable in other circumstances to run a full marathon. More important than anything else I know; my marathon attempt was for the glory of God.
Instead of me doing something which glorified God, He was glorified in the compassion, love and support of the people who lifted me up after such a disappointing finish. He was glorified in allowing this bullheaded woman to make a sensible decision and stop when my body had enough. He was glorified in over $800 donated to World Vision and more donated for my expenses in Chicago. And I hope He was glorified in the work and effort I put forth.
Thank you for your support and prayers. Thank you for helping me walk through this adventure.
Doing it for God’s Glory!
LaVonda
Monday, October 11, 2010
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Chicago Marathon, here I come!
So, this time Sunday, I will have run the Chicago Marathon!
I ask for your continued prayers. Aaron was diagnosed with strep last week and is now on an antibiotic. My concern is that it was 12 days before the race and strep has an incubation of 10 – 14 days; I ask you to pray specifically that I won’t come down with it. I’m choosing to believe it will not be a factor.
I’ve reached the first goal of $500 for World Vision. I had hoped to reach $1310, but I think whatever is given will be absolutely perfect. If you wanted to support me in this endeavor, it’s not too late. I’ve included the address and websites below.
The hotel is booked and the driving plans are made. I’ve done my best to prepare. I’ve trained to the best of my ability. I’ve drank so much water I think I just might float away. I think, physically, I’m ready. In my head, I can say that easily, but then my heart begins to pound just a little faster. I’m so very excited, but terrified at the same time.
I’m praying in the midst of all the nervousness and excitement I remember that it is only through Christ I could have made it this far. When I cross that finish line and do my victory dance (in whatever pitiful form it may be at the time ) I pray I will remember that it’s not really about me. My hope and prayer is that God will be glorified and His light will be clearly seen through me.
Sunday morning at 7:30am, if you remember me, please pray again.
Trying to Bring Glory to God!
LaVonda
11618 Walnut View Way
Louisville, KY 40299
http://twv.convio.net/goto/lavondah
Donations made payable to or paid directly to World Vision through the website will be 100% World Vision and you will receive a donation letter/statement listing your donation. Donations made payable to me will be used for the race and expenses and any money left afterwards will be donated to World Vision under your name.
I ask for your continued prayers. Aaron was diagnosed with strep last week and is now on an antibiotic. My concern is that it was 12 days before the race and strep has an incubation of 10 – 14 days; I ask you to pray specifically that I won’t come down with it. I’m choosing to believe it will not be a factor.
I’ve reached the first goal of $500 for World Vision. I had hoped to reach $1310, but I think whatever is given will be absolutely perfect. If you wanted to support me in this endeavor, it’s not too late. I’ve included the address and websites below.
The hotel is booked and the driving plans are made. I’ve done my best to prepare. I’ve trained to the best of my ability. I’ve drank so much water I think I just might float away. I think, physically, I’m ready. In my head, I can say that easily, but then my heart begins to pound just a little faster. I’m so very excited, but terrified at the same time.
I’m praying in the midst of all the nervousness and excitement I remember that it is only through Christ I could have made it this far. When I cross that finish line and do my victory dance (in whatever pitiful form it may be at the time ) I pray I will remember that it’s not really about me. My hope and prayer is that God will be glorified and His light will be clearly seen through me.
Sunday morning at 7:30am, if you remember me, please pray again.
Trying to Bring Glory to God!
LaVonda
11618 Walnut View Way
Louisville, KY 40299
http://twv.convio.net/goto/lavondah
Donations made payable to or paid directly to World Vision through the website will be 100% World Vision and you will receive a donation letter/statement listing your donation. Donations made payable to me will be used for the race and expenses and any money left afterwards will be donated to World Vision under your name.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)