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You know that moment, when your dog looks at you, eyes boring into your soul, melting your heart and telling you something (it almost feels like telepathic communication). Okay, it is 4:30 and it is feeding time, let us not deny they have needs and if met, they will be your best friend. A man's best friend. Such a true statement. I have always had a dog throughout my childhood and into adulthood. Each dog we had were all different, some mutts, rescue dogs, and pure breds. It didn't matter what kind of dog we had, they all had something in common, they bring you joy. I was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (Usher Syndrome: progressive blindness/deafness) when I was 16, of all times in my life, that was a period when I didn't have a dog. I was in denial and decided not to deal with this and stored this into the 'back room' of my brain. It was a flawless plan. Over the years, RP was becoming more prevelant and reentered to the 'front room' of my brain, alerting me to pay attention to what was happening. Life seemed so normal, married, raising a beautiful daughter, a career...then death struck, I lost my mother to cancer, I had to give up a dog (not long before my mom's death), give up my job, losing my vision and marriage was failing. My emotions were fraying from the fabric of my being and it was spiralling out of my control. And yet again, something was missing - a dog. Then came Lucy, a chocolate lab (was a rescue dog). I met her before, she along with another chocolate lab was abandoned at the Gymnastics Academy. I was volunteering at the office at the time and asked around if anyone knows of these two beautiful dogs. After a week, I called the SPCA. I had asked them to contact me if they come up for adoption. To my surprise, after 2 weeks I got the phone call. Nobody had claimed them, which made me sad. How can someone abandon two beautiful chocolate labs? After much debate with my husband, we came to an agreement that I am solely responsible for the dog. As we drove up the the pound, I could see her peeking through the fence, she just looked frightened and was not vocal like the other dogs. The SPCA called her 'Purdy" (like Purdy's Chocolate) and the other one 'Rocky'. Rocky was in the same pen and according to the staff, these two dogs were inseparable. I told my husband we have enough room for two dogs. I felt like I was the child begging to keep the two dogs. It was embarrassing and demeaning. I lost. So we adopted Purdy and left Rocky behind. As we were driving off, he yelped and howled till we were too far to hear him. It was heartwrenching and I cried. I renamed Purdy to Lucy, it suited her personality - she was funny and clumsy. It was over a week that I had noticed Lucy didn't bark, she just sat on the kitchen floor and watched me all the time, observing her new owners and home. Even when someone was at the door, I often don't hear the knocking on the door, Lucy just sat quietly while I was going about my daily routine. So, I started to train her, to bark when someone at the door, some sign language for sit, stay and come. It was not long before she became my eyes and ears. She barked when someone was at the door, she helped me to 'see' when I dropped things on the floor, and was always ready and eager to help. After losing my mom, our puppy Millie, and my daugther in full time school, my weight was becoming a problem. Walking Lucy was a great start to improve my well being. We were out walking one day heading to the grocery store and coming down the hill was a runner. She was smiling and enjoying her run. It was as if she was a gazelle effortlessly running in the wild. I decided that day, I want to experience what she was experiencing and looking fit. I would wait till I dropped off my daughter at school and walked down to the dike pathway so no one would see my attempt at running. Lucy was always happy to run. We would start out running and after about 20 seconds my lungs were burning, and I was gasping for breath, everything was hurting. I thought to myself, this is horrible! I can't even run 50 yards! It was then I remembered that woman running down the hill. I was determined to give this a go. So Lucy, with her energetic strides encourage me to go. It took me a few months before I could run 2 miles without stopping. I was elated, Lucy and I became a running team. She was looking trim and I started to lose weight. Running became my therapy. That year, I joined the newly formed running club and continued my journey to fitness. Lucy would train with me 3 days a week running and the off days we would do long walks or hiking. We were inseparable. After serveral months of training for my first 1/2 marathon I had lost 30lbs and then following year for my first full marathon I lost 47lbs. Lucy was a dog that saved me. She saved me from depression, improved my health and my loneliness. Sadly, she died of cancer (8 years ago). Losing her was like losing my best friend, my vision was worsening, depression was creeping back up on me and life just seemed hard. It was not till a year later, my daughter asked me to go with her to look at a dog, I was hesitant. She begged and said, you will love him, he is beautiful and needs a new home. It turns out, her friend's sister had this dog that needed to have a home because of the other dogs were bullying him and she had her hands full with a toddler and baby on the way. I agreed with my daughter to take him - I saw him, he is certainly a beautiful dog. I was determined not to get too attached to him too soon. We brought him home, my husband was not happy that I took him, I couldn't understand why, he never looked after Lucy so it was not like he had responsibilities for our Lucy. Determined to have a good dog, I worked with him to train him to all the things necessary to have a dog that is well behaved and to assist me. Turns out he was very different from Lucy - I guess I should expect that. I renamed him Dudley (Doug was his original name, changed it because I had 3 friends named Doug and it just didn't sit well with me) and he also a chocolate lab. Not long after my marriage broke down (been a long time coming), I packed up with what little stuff I had and the dog (because I knew if I left the dog, he would not have the same care), and moved in with a friend, now my fiancé. It was during that time when bonding really started to happen with Dudley, I was accepting the difference of personality between the two dogs, he is sweet, lazy, smart and adventerous but loyalty is still a bit lacking. Or is he just a happy social dog that loves to go with other people and come home just as happy? He is now my running buddy, he helps me by pulling so I would not veer onto the road. He keeps me safe and actually uses his head to nudge me at every juction we approach, sometimes he stops dead in his tracks and unbeknownst to me a car drives by. There were many close calls, I just have to learn to trust him, after all, I am sure he doesn't want to get hit by a car either! And yes! he fetches my slippers too. As it turns out, Dudley is a great dog and he comes with us almost everywhere we go. He is always ready with the leash in his mouth for the next run or adventure. Do you have a dog? Pet? Guide/support dog? So you understand my story. For those who never had a dog or always wanted to but afraid to, what is stopping you? Committment? Yes, it is a big commitment but comes with lots of benefits. Cost? Yes, cost can be a factor, but if you look after your dogs health and well being, that surely can reduce vet bills! It is a life changing addition to your life. Allergies? Consider talking to your doctor about getting allergy shots and research what type of dog suits you. If you don't want to commit to have a dog for very long, consider fostering at your local SPCA/ASPCA, become a puppy raiser for guide/therapy dogs (up to 18 months committment), or just visit the pound and volunteer to walk/feed/clean them. These are all good ways to have some of that canine love and who knows, as time goes by you will be ready to have a dog to be part of your life for many years. Having a dog is a dogs bollocks! (It means fantastic by the way!) websites/resources: https://www.puppyspot.com/ FIND ALL KINDS OF BREEDS/RESOURCES OF DOG BREEDERS AND FOR DOG OWNER http://www.spca.bc.ca/ READY TO ADOPT? VOLUNTEER? FOSTER? http://bcandalbertaguidedogs.com/volunteer/ VOLUNTEER OR DONATE, LEARN MORE ABOUT PUPPY RAISING Double-tap to edit.
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Dash For Dogs 2017Running solo is a challenge when you have less then 10 degrees of peripheral vision (most people have 175 degrees), luckily we live in the age of technology and I have assistance using RunGo app and Apple Iphone/watch series 2. It never cease to amaze me how much technology can have an impact on our lives - it is like having a longer lease on athleticism. A couple months ago, I came across an advert post on facebook featuring Dash for Dogs run in February. It turns out, it was an event put on by RunGo (app) - Craig Slagel for BC & Alberta Guide Dogs. Since having met Craig and 'Dynasty' (retired guide dog) at a race expo, I wanted to support this event and for a great cause. Chris and I signed up for the 10K run/walk. It was an opportunity to run another event solo using the RunGo app in the trails of Stanley Park. A couple weeks before the event, I recieved an email from Craig about a blog that I have done a few months back (RUN GO SOLO). He was impressed how I used the app and my iphone to guide me through the trails. This time, I will be using the Apple watch to navigate through the trail system of Stanely Park. After several messages back and forth, Craig again, helped me set up the watch/iphone ready for the run. How exciting is this?! The night before the event, Chris and I walked to the Denman Running Room store to pick up our race packages. After gettiing our numbers, Craig (always to the rescue!) made sure I was set up with the Apple watch and the route ready for action. It turns out that the trail has some obstacles that could hinder my run and he suggested that he could have someone to run with me. I understand his concern and decided that it was a good idea to have extra safety measures in place. RACE DAY: Alarm goes off at 6:00 am and so our day begins. We arrived in Stanley Park at 8:00am, Dudley, our chocolate lab was getting excited and I was nervous having to run with him with about 100 other dogs with their owners. I have never done an organised run with our dog. This event was a first time, and to be frank, I wasn't sure how Dudley would be. I imagined him to be all over the place and not to have any control with him. He generally runs really well with me, he stays pretty focused and tends to pull me off the road if I were to veer on to the road. He is my 'wanna be guide dog'. We arrived at the beautiful Stanley Park early with plenty of time to do the usual prep for a run. It was about 8:55, I heard my name being called out and saw Craig motioned me to come forward. I was introduced to a lovely woman, Ashley Wiles. Before I even knew it, we started to run. I hear the app going off on my watch...then it echoed around me, a lot of the runners were using the RunGo app. Not surprising (smile). We were already comfortable with each other as we chat through our 10K. GAWD, these hills were killing me, haha. I had to stop a few times to catch my breath! My hip was hurting, but not bad enough to opt out. As we navigate through the trails, I understood why Craig wanted my to have someone to run with me. It was the stairs, some icy patches, low lying branches and a log to climb over. GOOD CALL Craig! Ashley and I breezed through the 'obstacles' no problem and the app chimed in at every turn, encouraging words and stating kilometers to me through the run without any problems. We chatted throughout the run (well mostly Ashley, as I was struggling through those hills). It was about 50 meters to the finish I said to Ashley, lets speed it up. Made it in 1:15, which was a lot slower than my last trail race, who cares? We had a good time! I actually used both RunGo app and the Activity Ring for this run. I can't wait to do more runs with the Apple watch (series2) as I become more familiar with it. As a determined individual, I want to run solo for as long as I can. I don't know how much longer I can run on my own, I won't worry about that for now. As long as technology and support continues, it will be a long time before I hang up my runners. Now if only my runners has an app for visual cues... Special thanks to my love, Chris - who I know gets a little nervous as I head out for my solo runs, nevertheless supports me always. To Craig Slagel (RunGoApp) who continues to support my athletic goals, Fairmont Vancouver Hotel for your wonderful hospitality, and Ashley Wiles for running with me! What a great weekend~ So, see you next year? AND... Craig did a fantastic job raising nearly $16,000 for BC & Alberta Guide Dogs! Registered! That is how it all started, our friend (and my guide) Jodi posted on Facebook that she had registered for the Cowichan Autumn Classic 1/2 Marathon. Of course I had to check out the event on line. The description of the event sounded like the perfect run: mostly trails, the Zanata Winery wine tasting and great . After getting some information from the race director and Jodi, I decided that I could run this event without a guide. I needed a little help, you will be surprised to know, that help was done by an app called RunGo. A few years ago Chris and I were at the BMO Vancouver Marathon event and at the expo we met Craig Slagel, the founder of RunGo. It wasn't till after the event that I had downloaded the app and had used it on some of my routes while training. Since then, I got a new phone and the app went dormant. This summer I revisited the app and decided to do my training with this app. I did not realize how big of a role this app would be for my running.
Jodi registered for the 1/2, I registered for the 10K knowing that this will be a test for myself and the RunGo app. Typically, the night before the event I decided to download the route for the race, after several attempts, I could not get it onto my app. It was too small for me to see and I was frustrated that I could not do it, finally I gave in and messaged Craig asking for help, really not expecting a quick response. The next morning, I was pleasantly surprised that Craig had my route downloaded and ready to go! I was thrilled! This meant I could run with more confidence and I won't get lost in the trails. RACE DAY: We pick up our race numbers (Chris was able to register for 10K on the day) and it was raining heavily, but our spirits hadn't dampened. We were eager and optimistic that the run will go well. Chris and I went to our positions at the start line, I decided to go in the middle of the pack. I was carrying my cane folded up and wore my "BLIND" vest in hope to help others be aware of my running situation. The gun goes off, I slowly paced behind some costumed runners and decided to hang behind them till I felt comfortable to pass. At 17 min/km pace, I felt I can comfortably pass some runners as they were going too slow. So I passed a couple more, and kept going till I was running at 6:45 min/km pace within 2km of the race. I decided to stop at water stations so I can safely walk through the crowded areas without too much trouble. Nearly 3km into the run, we hit the trails, I was feeling good and the app was directing me flawlessly. My confidence grew and so did my pace. It seems like I was running as if I have no vision issues at all. I was able to run freely as I let the app guide me. It was liberating. The leaves carpeted the trails in a dizzying blend of reds, oranges and yellows which made it difficult to navigate. I needed to follow someones feet to get me through the roots, puddles and branches or any other obstacles for that matter. I found a Mutant Ninja Turlte to follow for awhile, then a bumble bee and finally I found some bright Wonder Woman booties to follow, but she was too far ahead and still a group of people to pass, so I run patiently. I stopped for a quick view on the bridge, looking down the small canyon with a raging creek below. Just then I realized that I am losing sight of my nemesis. As soon as I went around the half way point I bolted pass several runners to find Wonder Woman, she was gone!! So I decided just to run and be happy with the pace and forget about her. Just then someone said to me, "nice cosume, blind runner!" I quickly repied, "I wish that were true, it is not a costume." and bolted past him. That alone, got my pace to a furious speed and sped past some more runners and at 7km, I saw her. I couldn't believe she was within my reach. My app chimed "7K at 6:15 pace, way to go!". I know it is silly, but I was motivated by this, so back to chasing Wonder Woman I go. I have not ran this pace in years. In fact the last 10K I ran was 1hr30min. I knew I was going to beat this time, my hope was to finish at 1hr.15min. I was feeling great at this point, I was tailing behind her at about 150 meters from the finish line, I unleashed the cane and steadily ran towards the finish line, still right behind Wonder Woman. I was estatic I had finished with no stumbles, trips, falls or bangs. It felt like I truly raced my best race. Thank you Wonder Woman and RunGo! I got my medal, a wine glass with red wine. Not a bad way to finish a run! I headed towards the finish line to see Chris come in. I recognized his running style and my face broke into a smile of joy, his face said it all, it was a good run for him too. This brought me such gratitude and completeness. End of a perfect day. PS. - Zanata Winery has a wonderful little Italian restaurant that we are surely to visit in the near future. - I highly recommend the RunGo app. It is Android and iOS friendly (including Apple Watch) It has been just over a year since I ran in an organized race, last one was in Salt Lake City (July 2015). I had succumbed to an injury, one that I couldn't ignore any longer, so I thought to myself, 'if you want to continue running, you must stop running and start healing'. So I did, after 10 months hiatus from running I had the 'itch' to start again. In June I started to run...ever so slowly, being extremely cautious and reminding my self that I am starting as a novice runner. Knowing I had ran 14 full marathons, a dozen 1/2 marathons, couple triathlons, and various distances, it wasn't easy to start from the beginning. To celebrate my returning to running, I registered for the 15K Snowden Trail Challenge. Then came June 21, the day I will never forget. My world shattered, Chris had collapsed in the gym, actually he had died for 14 minutes. He was flown to Victoria wihin a couple hours. When I arrived at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, Chris was on a ventilator and put into hyperthermic state. Tears just streamed down my cheeks when I saw him. Nurses were in and out of the room taking care of him as I sat there holding his hand, frozen with fear as the doctor said to me, "We hope for the best, and not sure if he will survive this, but because he is fit, we are optomistic." Counsellor was brought in to prepare me for the worst. Running now was on the back burner and I wanted to put all my energies to help Chris to heal. After nearly 2 weeks in the hospital, we came home and every day since, I just look at him in amazement how he had survived such an event. I really truly feel lucky to have him beside me. He is an inspiration. Chris is walking 1-2 times a day (and even doing a bit of jogging) and he is talking about doing events.
Just 3 1/2 weeks ago, I picked up where I left off, running every other day increasing my long runs 3 km each week. Thursday I ran approximately 12 km and decided I was ready for Sunday's Snowden Trail Challenge. RACE DAY It is a beautiful morning, feeling relaxed and excited to do this run. Jodi (our friend and my guide) picked us up at 8 am and the drive took 1 1/2 hours to Campbell River. I usually have the pre race jitters, but I felt confident and did not put any pressure on myself, my goal was to enjoy the run. We arrived in plenty of time to do all the necessaries, pick up race packages, hydrate, fuel up and the dreaded porta potty stops. Can they NOT invent a better porta potty system? I can not hold my breath that long and I am not blind enough to see all the fecal soup brewing in the hole. Just minutes before race start, Chris gives me that reassuring 'you can do this' smile as we said our goodbyes. I was feeling good, Jodi was her usual bubbly chatty self, and excited to get running. The gun goes off, our tether springs into life as we start to run. We were running comfortably, passing a few people as we head down the gravel road, after about 2km, we hit the trail. Suddenly the temperature dropped to about 16 degrees (was about 24 degrees celcius), I am thinking, this is going to be an epic run. The trail started out to be about 6 feet wide, and thinking "wow, this would be great if it was like this throughout the whole trail!". We were running a little slower now because of the different environment, dealing with shades, sudden bright sunshine which in itself is difficult for any runner to adjust, never mind being sight impaired. We were bumbling along and then the trail starts to narrow, and now Jodi, being the intuitive good guide she is, let the runners pass us as we step aside. We knew we have to concentrate on footing in the everchanging textures of the trails. We were 5km into the run, enjoying the tranquility, beautiful shades of lush greens flash past us and we noticed that not a soul to be seen. Everyone is ahead, not sure how far ahead because the forest was thick and trails were winding. I really didn't care if I was last in this race, for me it was about my surroundings, not the clock. At around 8 or 9 km, we were running past this beautiful lake, oh it was so pretty. I took a picture of it so I could show Chris the beauty we had seen. Oh the smells was incredible, I could smell the Bracken ferns, Chanterelle mushrooms, and pine needles as we run. The Salals were over 5 feet tall! Jodi and I looked like tiny morsels for dinosaurs in a prehistoric jungle. The trail got really difficult at this point, we had to slow down, roots were embedded in all directions and it was like we were doing hopstotch along the way...that went on for about 3km, then up the hills, down, switchbacking to and fro...again and again. You would think we were discouraged that we had to walk some of this, but we weren't. It was just too beautiful and it has given us time to absorb all the colours and smells. At 10k we hit the aid station, OH MY GOODNESS! there was pretzels, m&ms, chips, cookies, oranges, jujubes, electrolytes and water. We decided to stop, snack and chat. Then back to our blissful run, still feeling really good as if I have never taken a break from running. We were nearing the end of the run, the last 2km was the dreaded rocky road back to the finish line. As we were turning around the last corner, we put our tether back on. Just as we did that we saw Chris with a camera (our personal paparazzi). There is nothing more what I love is to see Chris's smile as we head past him to the finish line. At the finish line there was our friend (also guides me) Kerry, his wife and kids from Comox and Annie from Campbell River. Our little reunion just add that extra special magic to my day. Jodi and I even got interviewd to do a testimonial for the event's promo video they were filming. We were so excited to see beer, wine and pizza at the finish line. So after 2 glasses of wine and a bellyful of pizza, chips and cookies, we were ready to head home. What a wonderful, blissful day. I couldn't of picked a better running event to rejuevenate my life as a born again runner. I. AM. A. RUNNER. Ever just lie in bed and wonder, you dig into your memory bank and try to figure out what was real or imagined? For years I have these flashbacks that haunts me when I am awake and dreams that awakens me with fear and tears. My dreams are so vivid that I still remember them even after nearly 50 years. How do you determine what is real? What I can tell you is my feelings are real, my fears, anxiety and sadness is real. Every day I have these feelings, it haunts me. What happened so many years ago? I remember so many happy childhood moments, as a family we did so much camping, hiking, skiing, sailing and a lot of star gazing. Happy days. We were a family always on an adventure, never a dull moment. So why is it so difficult to retrieve memories that are unwanted? Did I shield them with armour to protect my sanity? Muddled memories, mom crying, signing and talking because at the time I was not really talking and at that time was discovered recently that I have moderate to severe hearing loss. New to a hearing aid, I had often threw them out of my ear because the world was too loud. I remember crying, rocking myself to sleep. Afraid of the dark (like most kids), I would not go to sleep unless the hall light was on, bedroom door was open wide, and my cat on my bed. It must of been a frustrating bedtime ritual for mom, especially having to find our cat. I would sometimes cry till Tammy (cat) came into my room. Every night for years I would rock and bang my head till I fall asleep, it was like I was trying to forget something and tiring myself so I could finally fall asleep. Even did this into my early teens. How can one have grown up in such a happy childhood with great support of my family and be so conflicted? I do not understand, I don't remember why mom was crying, all I know, something had happened. Now only just recently, some stories shared amongst family, me still not knowing what the story is as it was not described to me in detail. I do not want details, I didn't need details and yet, my memories are confusing to me. All I know is my family loves me and protects me, and would never hurt me. But who did? That is a mystery that hopefully one day be solved, and I have regrets that I didn't pursue this sooner. My mother was diagnosed with lung cancer and before our last Christmas dinner together, had announced that she has cancer. Hope, there is hope mom had said, three months later she died, in the hospital (which was the last place where she wanted to be dying). During those three months, I had spent a lot of time with my mom (we were very close), we talked very deeply about love, religion and life. During those months, I had wanted to talk to mom about my childhood haunts, I wanted an answer. I looked at her, weak, lying in bed wearing a soft cap on her head (she lost all her hair during chemo),I just couldn't ask her the question. I could not bear her to suffer more than she already has. I so desperately wanted to ask her what she had asked me that day. Whatever she knew of that time, her burdens was taken with her, it was her last selfless act she had done for our family. She protected us right till her very last breath. Now, sixteen years later, my dad is now eighty and not well. Again, I am wanting to seek answers, the quest for peace of mind. Again, I can't do it. Why should my father suffer as he is suffering enough. But I do know this, I will have answers, it will all come back to me one day, or maybe someone will tell me. Some one knows something... To Whom it May Concern: Be brave, have the courage to tell me, no matter how bad it is. I am strong and this will not break me. Peace will be with you as it will with me.
For as long I have known me, which is a very long time (smile), I am that same person who loves to laugh, be silly, be adventurous, be serious, be afraid, be me. So what had changed? It seems the more vision I lose, the more people in my life fade away. Some family, some friends chooses not to see me beyond my vision loss, I don't understand what is it that they are afraid of? I often wonder if I embarrass some of my family and friends because of my vision loss, do I make them feel awkward? Am I a burden to you because I don't drive or be able to come to you for a visit? I often feel sad and isolated because of this. This was especially hard when I was a teenager, because at that age, we are learning to drive or driving. You can hop in the car, drive to McDonalds, hang out with friends, go to parties, shopping with girlfriends, or just going out for a drive. I never got my driver's license, I was too scared, being newly diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, I was afraid and unsure if I had enough vision to drive. So early on in my life I was experiencing isolation from my peers. Most classmates did not know I was going blind, let alone being hearing impaired. I hid that from a lot of people. Fooled many, even myself. It took many years before I actually understood what going blind is like. Now in my 50's I still have those feelings of isolation. Some days I forget that I am going blind and other days it really hits me. More than anything, it is society that reminds me of my blindness - body language, avoidance, and ignorance plays a big part of that. The rest is how I perceive myself as a blind person. Yes, I forget to take my cane out on more days I care to remember. Chris (my partner) always says, "Rose, I know your sight impaired, but the others don't, take your cane." Damn, he is so right!
We all run with one foot in front of the other, it's that simple, well almost that simple. I have been a runner since 2004. Ten years ago I didn't think much about my low vision or how it will affect my running, in fact it wasn't until I fell into a ravine during a club trail run. I had some difficulties at the time but I didn't think it was worth mentioning. At that time I probably had about 25 degrees field of vision , cataracts were developing and had a lot of problems with ever changing shadows and sunlight. I finally told some running members that I had Retinitis Pimentosa. I also had one hearing aid, it was insufficient for my hearing loss and old technology (analog). Looking back now, I can't believe how long I have struggled to hear with one hearing aid. With the combination of lip reading and putting sounds into what I think people are saying can be so trying, I get it right sometimes but when I get it wrong , I really get it wrong!
I remember how I started running, my goal was to run the distance from one telephone pole to the next, eventually worked up to running around the 3.2K loop around the dike. I was also 45lbs heavier. It was hard work running around with 45 pounds of butter hanging off you! So losing weight was on my mind, not losing my vision, that came later. I joined the running club not long after and signed up for my first 1/2 marathon in Victoria. I have ran this event every year since, except in 2011. In 2007 I have done my first full marathon, what a feeling that was ! Boston qualifier, wow now that is what is on every runners bucket list. In 2009, Chris Morrison and I did the Boston marathon as a tethered team . We used my yoga mat strap as a tether, let me tell you, it was uncomfortable. Throughout the marathon we were constantly adjusting the strap to make it more comfortable. After the event , we both agreed we need something better and to practice more as a tethered team. The next marathon we used my daughters skate lace and a couple of silicone wristbands. It was much better. Now if only I know my lefts and rights. If I could get a dime for Chris saying left! No , the other left! I'd be wealthy. Fourteen full marathons later, I am still learning how to run effectively with my guides. No run is the same for me because of this progressive disease, always changing and adjusting to the changes. This makes it a real challenge for both my guides and myself. My last full marathon was October 2013 with Kerry Hale and we sailed through the hills and a consistent pace, talked about children, arts, writing and life in general. Having a guide makes running so much less stressful, especially in a event. Since then, I have continued to run and train with a schedule that suited me, running with my dog on the paved trails where I felt safe and can do on my own. This lead up to my last event in October 2014 running with Jodi and Nic at the Victoria GoodLife Fitness Marathon doing the half. My body was tired, tired of training on my own, tired of the struggles of trying to avoid any mishaps and decided in August 2015 to give running a break. It has now been five months since I have done any running. I must admit, I miss it. Chris and I have been going to the gym for 3 years 3-5 days a week and finally, yesterday I went on the treadmill. I decided to try running again. To my surprise, I ran slow and steady for 20 minutes non stop. I feel I am ready to start this journey again. If I fail, I fail. I will not beat myself up about not able to run again, it just means I have to adjust. I am all to familiar with adjusting, having Retinitis Pigmentosa taught me this, however frustrating it is, I can not and will not stop because of it. It will be back to the beginning again, my goal is to run for the sheer hell of it. For now, I will not commit to any events for right now, I just want to stay fit, promote fitness and who knows where this road will lead me. I still have that brand new wetsuit waiting to hit the lake, the kayak is looking a little thirsty too. I hope those who read this blog will feel motivated to be active, whatever that sport may be. Let's make 2016 active and adventurous! What another amazing weekend at the Victoria Goodlife Fitness Marathon. The event gets better and better each year. With the help of the Nanaimo Lions, Zone 7 and Chris Morrison, we had a stellar year! Chris had brought together some amazing guides for our sight impaired runners, with some of them having never guided before. You would never of known it was their first time. Words cannot express how I felt meeting these wonderful young people! Friday, Chris and I headed out for a couple hours drive to Victoria, dropping off our dog to the kennels on the way. We arrive at our hotel, checked in, and off to the race expo, again, meeting great people and discussing future races as VI runners participating to new ideas for smart phone apps. Chris and I picked up everyone's race packages and guide bibs. To our pleasant surprise, the Goodlife Fitness marathon has put in GLVM jackets along with their guide bibs and timing chips. This was the first event with guides ever getting the full race package. With 16 bright green bags in our hands we walk through the crowds of the expo and headed back to the hotel. As evening approaches, we were ready to pick up two of our American sight impaired runners from the airport. We were happy to see Richard and Corvin (both from California) looking well and pumped for the weekend. Saturday afternoon, we met with all the guides and sight impaired runners (most registered participants came to the meet and greet) and the energy was already rising with great excitement for tomorrows race. Dinner was absolutely delicious, Blue Crab Catering did a wonderful job of bringing out a fantastic buffet for all the hungry runners. We were well fueled for race day. I look around the room watching everyone engaged in their conversation, smiles, laughter and friendships. I felt very proud to be part of this. Chris and I work hard to fundraise for this and to see it all come together seamlessly was a feeling of great pride. Lion pride. RACE DAY: Chris was the first to be awake, making his oatmeal, I opened my eyes and actually felt well rested. I am so proud when I see Chris all donned in his running gear and ready to take on the 26.2 miles. He is unstoppable, off he went to the early start, and I mean early...6:30am. I was feeling quite confident and ready to do this thing! Nic and I met Jodi down in the lobby and Jodi was already chatting up a storm, that made me smile. I knew we were going to have a great run. We walked to the start line and the energy around us was building, photographers shooting, announcements on the loud speaker, and the horn is about to go off. I choose the 5 minute early start as i feel comfortable with no crowds and to have the opporunity for the elites to pass by. I great experience for 2.5 seconds! Even the elites had wished us a good race as they flew by. The weather was perfect, as per usual. Cool, but not cold, overcast and NO RAIN! It meant I could run with hearing aids on. Did you know, I have been running this event since 2004, and only once in the last 10 years, it rained? I don't mind running in the rain, but I prefer not to. The gun went off and away we ran, we were all feeling so good from start to finish. The run seemed effortless in all 21.2K. I enjoyed the company and the guidance of two great guides. Nic and Jodi were awesome, they made the miles disappear quickly. I even did not notice the Dallas Road double hills. Usually that is the toughest part of the run for me. The support of the runners passing by, the crowds along the sides were giving us encouragement and cheers. I thought to myself, 'this is a great event, its no wonder we come back every year!' Throughout the run, I wondered how Chris was faring on the course. As we were entering the park, a woman yelled out something, and all I heard was my name. Nic said "did you hear that Rose?" I said "no", so Nic had told me that there was a woman on the side of the road saying "Way to Go Rose and Chris says HI!" and quizzically i try to figure out who that woman was. It turns out (as I found out after the run, talking to Chris about this woman) that this woman was a volunteer race marshall and Chris had stopped to tell her to give me a message. What a beautiful man Chris is, he knew I would be thinking of him and wanted to let me know he is doing okay. It was such a nice touch to my already perfect run! We finished strong at 2:07 and placed 1st as a Vision Impaired Champion in the 1/2 marathon. Not bad for an ol' gal. :) I want to thank so many people for making this weekend special, George Hajecek for coming out from Ottawa again to guide, you are such a wonderful person! I hope to see you next year. Nic Tickner, Jodi Weber, I hope you guys keep guiding, because you are great at it, Judith LeRoy, for being there for us, especially at the last minute, Trevor and Keiran Ruck, Chris Thorne and Chris Koch for trying something new, and doing a terrific job guiding and last but not least, Jerry Krall once again coming back to guide. Standing ovation for you all, THANK YOU! Some comments from other runners: Judith - "Over the years I've raced many races and competed at all levels. I can honestly say that guiding has been one of the best running experiences of my life. Not only do you share the sport you love with another but at the same time, you are part of something much, much larger. To help someone achieve a goal who has overcome so much, just to get to that start line, is humbling and a major honour. To all those VI athletes, thank you for your trust in me and for letting me be part of your journey. " Richard - "Rose Kamma Sarkany and Chris Morrison made the Victoria Goodlife Fitness Marathon a VIP experience for all those involved. It started with their Canadian hospitality upon arrival at the airport and didn’t end until they put us through security at the end of the weekend. Highlights included a wonderful pre-race dinner at our host hotel with other VI runners and guides, meeting new friends, and spending down time with others on this common journey of vision loss, guiding and endurance sport. The race itself has something for everybody, whether you are a walker, marathoner, or want to run the 8K or ½ marathon options. It’s so close to Seattle that it’s almost not fair to call it an international race. Canadians have to be some of the friendliest and most courteous people on this planet. If you are looking for a destination race, why not choose one that makes the VI VIP?" Richard Hunter (Folsom, CA) Visually Impaired Marathoner, Ultra Runner Chris T - "One of the most unique running experiences I've been lucky enough to have today. I was able to "guide" for Greg Tonge (white tank top) today for the last half of the Victoria Marathon. Greg is visually impaired and running his 48th marathon. "Inspiring" doesn't begin to describe the whole day... Big thanks to Nic Tickner for the encouragement and for linking me with this community!" Jodi - I had the opportunity to guide Rose alongside fellow guide Nic and really just had an overall lovely experience. We chatted the entire way and worked well together as a team. I had a lovely run and felt very inspired and thankful to be able to assist Rose to be able to take part in the event. When I need to dig deep during any race I often remind myself of those less fortunate that are not able to run at all. This always pulls me through and to be able to enable another runner to be able to continue doing what they love is just a wonderful experience. I feel you guys are an inspiration to many people that have various disabilities. You portray that limitations should not be limitations at all; we just have to adapt sometimes. I look forward to incorporating guiding into my running lifestyle and thank you guys for this wonderful opportunity not only to give back but also to meet new friends along the way :-) Chris M - It is, and continues to be an incredible event, which, with the support of the Fitness Goodlife marathon organisers, athletes, guides, and volunteers continues to go from strength to strength. The support of our local 'Front Runners' should also be recognised. Our host hotel yet again provided great service and an exquisite banquet. Being chosen as our Lions Clubs International, Zone 7 project this year was of course special too. Enabling us to provide technical vests to the athletes and guides running under the banner of 'C Us Run' sporting a unique logo. Having been part of the 'Running for Change' campaign since it's inception in 2009 I continue to believe it is at the forefront of raising awareness not just for the Visually Impaired/blind on a national and international stage, but also everyone whom society labels with a perceived disability. Regards Chris Nic T - First of all I would like to say thank you. Thank you for the lessons. Lessons that show me so many things, you and Chris showcase love, attention and caring support through each other's hurdles. You showcase what it really means to chase down your dreams backing yourself the whole way. You not only make things happen for yourself but you put your heart into ensuring that other people, strangers can live their dreams as well. I arrived on Saturday to Chris' beaming smile ready and waiting as my bus arrived and that set the tone for the rest of the weekend. We met the rest of the athlete's both VI and guide's and shared smiles, stories a fantastic dinner (kindly supplied by running for change) and a little bit of each others world. Many of us meeting for the first time and with the experience ahead were going to be a whole lot closer by the end of the following day. The following morning Rose and I toed the line and with Jody. The race itself was a great experience working together to make sure we all got to the end safely and with a giant smile at the end (maybe a few grimaces in the middle). The endless support and encouragement from fellow athletes is my favourite part of race day. After every race day I enjoy the reflection, the reflection that makes me oh so appreciative that even toeing the line in any manner is an option and a reality. To be able to share that, and help facilitate that for some one else in the smallest way is the very least I could do and brings joy to my being. This race day reflection will stick with me for life. To all the VI athletes out there I say thank you. Thank you for showing me that no matter what, I need to chase my dreams and follow a daily path that keeps me happy, sometimes we will have to work harder for it than others, but as long as I continue to strive for this result I am headed in the right direction. I look forward to the next time I get to don the guide jersey and share an unforgettable day with another beautiful soul. Thank you to Chris Morrison and Rose Kamma Sarkany for hosting such a wonderful weekend and all that you do for many communities. Regards, Nic Tickner - A fellow human in admiration of many Thank you to all for sharing your experiences on my blog. I cannot express my gratitude to you all, Rose. We did it! It was only just last month that I decided I wanted to do the Qualicum Beach Triathlon. I don't know why but I did. So I emailed the race director of the event, explaining that I have done a triathlon once before and interested in doing the QB triathlon. I wanted to inform them that I was sight/hearing impaired. Almost instantly I got a very welcoming response from them and asked if there is anything they could do to make this an accessible event for me. Wow, how could I not do this triathlon? So next challenge, find a guide. I was so fortunate to know a few people and within days I got a response from a guide Kerry Hale (he is an ironman, coach and had guiding experience with me at previous running events) and I knew we would be a great team for this event. As it turns out, Kerry's wife Lynda was signed up for her very first triathlon, so it makes the event even more special. TRAINING: hahahahaha, training? hardly, I am notorious for not doing proper training, but my wonderful supportive partner Chris helps me along. We went on the beastly tandem, for 12 K ride, thinking there is NO way that we could do any long distance on this heavy old clunker. But it will have to do for the triathlon as that is the only thing I got. Chris and I went out to the pool a few times to practice our front crawl, and a few runs, even a brick session. (its a ride and run session when training for triathlons) PRE RACE PKG PICKUP: Excited! Chris, Kerry and I met with the race director, going over some last minute details and what to do with the tandem. Kerry has never been on a tandem before and we needed to get out there and practice before we race in the morning. Chris quickly gave some advice and away we went. Circled the parking lot a couple of times and headed out into the streets. I felt totally at ease during our practice ride. After our ride the race director was kind enough to allow us to store the bike in the pool office. The bike is big and cumbersome and not the easiest thing to transport. So we were happy to leave it at the pool overnight. RACE DAY: up at 6:00am feeling rather cool, calm and collect. I had all my race stuff packed the night before so there is no rushing or obsessively checking the list of stuff I needed. Chris and I drove to Qualicum and met Kerry and Lynda, chatting excitingly about how our race will go. We racked our bike, prepared our transition site and I still felt very calm about the race. Knowing that Chris and my dad was out there supporting me and having a great guide, I knew I was going to have a good race. We wished each other good luck and walked off to our Heat section. Before I knew it, it was my turn to go in the pool. Kerry was to tap my shoulder for me to start (can't hear him so we use tactile cues). GO! and off I went, by my second lap, I knew my goggle wasn't properly put on and water was filling up my goggles. I decided not to panic and continue to swim to the end of the pool and quickly fix the goggles, I had to do this twice and after the second attempt, I carried on with leaking goggles. I thought to myself 'I have no time for this' . Before I knew it, my swim was over, I completely lost count of how many laps I was doing. Luckily they had lap counters for the swim. Kerry and I went off to our transition area, and within minutes, dry off, put on shirt, sunglasses, water bottle, gloves and helmet. We were off. We had to do four laps and we were responsible for our own counting. Lap one was a little rough as we almost missed our turn on the route I said to Kerry,"we turn here", the flagger was talking to someone in a car and Kerry was trying to get the flaggers attention for reassurance that we were going the right way...so, we made a very very wide turn, hit the gravel and powered up so we didn't lose control. After that, I was very confident that the rest of the ride will be smooth and fast. By the time we finished our bike, my clothes were dry! Back at the transition area, we racked our bike and I only had to take off the helmet and gloves and it was a super quick transition. Rubber legs as soon as we got off the bike but quickly adjusted. The run however, was hard! Kerry and I had never done a trail race before. Trails are much more technical and slower to run on. I was disoriented throughout the trail because it was so winding and I had to hang on close to Kerry so I don't trip over roots or hit trees and we had to do this loop twice! All the shady and lighted areas in the trail makes it very difficult for me to adapt, so I relied on Kerry completely throughout the trails. For me the trees and dirt was just a green and brown blur. I could hear the crowds cheering and we are close to the finish. I heard my name announced in the crowds and my legs sped up and I said to Kerry "I can run faster now" and he asked if I wanted to finish on my own, and I said, "no, lets finish this together, as a team!" We had such a strong finish! We gave each other a congratulatory hug and I was elated as soon as I saw Chris. I love seeing his face when I finish the races. I see pride in his smile and I saw it on my dad's face too. It was such a good day! We did it in 1hour20min41sec YAY!!!!! GOAL: maybe fundraise for a bike of my own and try another tri! We all need challenge in life, even if it takes some adapting. I believe YOU can do this too! Be happy and keep TRI ing! FACT: I was the first ever person with disabilies to do this triathlon in their 18 year history of the event. Hopefully I won't be the last. |
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