6 – 7 – 17: AAA

Ankle Arthroscopy Anniversary. One year ago today I had surgery.

The short reason for surgery: chronically sprained ankle. My words, not my Doctor’s. Apparently, I’d rolled my ankle bad at some point years ago, and kept Running my Marathons, Half Marathons, Ragnars, Tough Mudders, Trail Runs, Triathlons… you get the point… but, since I either have a high tolerance for pain (possible) or I was really good at the R.I.C.E. method (also possible), I’d rest and go back out to said Marathons, Ragnars, etc. It caught up, even if I didn’t know if was an issue.

Let me tell you the hardest thing to lose: your identity. Running was me, ask anyone.

 

So, when I couldn’t rely on Running to cheer me up, let me hang with my friends, burn off the extra energy, fill my free time, feel myself again, it quite frankly, sucked.

 

 

But, that year is behind me. I’m excited for what’s next. I can’t do any more Marathons and I know I’ll never reach that Ultra I considered, once. It’s shorter Miles for me, now. And oddly, Running has become more sacred to me than ever – even if I can’t do Long Runs anymore.

 

 

 

 

Now, when you see me “like” your post for Running, Cycling, Hiking, Swimming, Lifting, or just doing activities… know that’s my way of giving you a silent fist pump in support. I will miss my Endurance days of Running, but I love seeing others.

 

 

I’ll sign off with: I’ll see you on the shorter races.

 

(...but not 10ks! God knows I HATE 10ks!)