First things first: I haven’t posted in a while, and there’s a reason. Don’t want to bore you with the details, so here’s the short version: During a routine physical a couple weeks ago, my doctor discovered a tumor in my abdomen (fruit size equivalent = large plum). I hadn’t been feeling like myself over the past 6 months (take-away lesson: listen to your body!!), so I’m relieved to finally understand my symptoms.
The good new is, the doctor feels strongly that the tumor is benign. The reality is (I refuse to use the term “bad news“ in light of my overall positive prognosis), surgery to remove the sucker is going to put me out of commission for a while. This means I’ll be a spectator for the Rock n’ Roll Half, GW Parkway Classic 10 Miler, and Love the Run You’re With 5k.
I’m still processing a lot of information related to this diagnosis, but I feel amazingly blessed to have options and am very encouraged by my doctor’s confidence in a successful outcome. So, even though I’ve been told to “take it easy” in the weeks leading up to surgery (“easy” is a relative term, right?), I’ve been managing to get good, mentally therapeutic, runs in.
Today I did just over 5 miles, starting from the Iwo Jima Memorial, down Mt. Vernon Trail, across the 14th Street Bridge, down by the Tidal Basin, and back over Memorial Bridge. Easy, flat, and very scenic. If you’re looking for a great run, click here for my exact route.
It was an absolutely beautiful day and I was so excited to see this huge red-tail hawk on the trail near Arlington Cemetery. I’m usually not quick enough to snap these birds (still kicking myself for not being able to photograph that bald eagle a few weeks ago near Mt. Vernon), but this one was very cooperative. Just wish I was a better photographer…
My Run In Pictures 
Kate- Wow. I thought i was clicking for a give away. I’m so sorry and I hope you get better quickly!
Megan
Megan-do you want any of my entries!? I’d hate for them to go to waste!
No thanks! I’m already registered for GW Parkway Classic and can’t do the others. You could always post something on the Pacers Distance training page
Kate, we had no idea! I’m so glad to hear that you and your doctor’s confidence levels are high that this is just a small speedbump in your life and your runs. You are a champion! If there’s anything you and Mike need, you know Kate and I are 5 minutes away!
Hi there! We don’t know each other, but I want to wish you well!
I’ve just had some medical issues of my own that included surgeries, and I learned a couple of key things: 1. a positive attitude does wonders – I see you’re there already! Though we can’t all be Susie Sunshine 100% of the time, humor and optimism are priceless. 2.when people offer to help with stuff, take them up on it! I suck at asking for and accepting help, but, man, it does a world of good – for the giver and receiver.
Keep running easy and get well soon. 🙂
What an awesome note! Thanks for the wonderful words of encouragement. Sometimes I really love social media!
Holy Moly Lady!!! I’m so glad to hear a that the prognosis looks good….but I’ll definitely be keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers!! I’d love to run for you in the RnR Half!! Kickin’ Asphalt for Kate!!! 🙂
Thanks so much! The entry is yours, girl! Make me proud!
Woo hoo…thanks girl!!! I’m gonna make a t-shirt and maybe even a tutu in your honor!!!
Haha! You will rock it! I’ll be out there cheering. My husband is running, too…so beat him!
Sorry to hear about your tumor, but glad you did (finally?) listen to your body and get it checked out and very glad that the prognosis is good. As for the races, depending on the timing, it might be fun to volunteer at one or more of them. That’s what I did (for GW Parkway) when I was sidelined (with a blood clot) 3 years ago. It was really fun.
Wow! Blood clots are serious…glad you made a recovery! I am definitely looking into volunteering. I’ll be in the cheering section for my husband’s first half (Rock n’ Roll), too!