What a Week

So I just finished our fifth week of training. I can't believe it's already been five weeks. And I still can't believe I am actually on my way to running a full marathon. This week was definitely a big one for me. Sunday marked the anniversary of Tiffany's death (for those who may not know, Tiffany is my identical twin sister, and the reason I am running). It's been ten years already which is absolutely crazy to think about. Coincidently, it has been the rainiest it has ever been around this time since she passed away. The week she passed away it rained about all week... This week has been exactly the same. So many things have happened this week that takes me straight back to being at City of Hope with her during her last few weeks. I would do anything to go back to those days. Anyways, on a much more positive note, Sunday also marked my completion of my fundraising goal. I am SO SO SO thankful for everyone that has donated and supported me in this. I can't put into words the greatness of my appreciation. Also this week, my mentor, Kristen, asked me to share my story during the mission moment. It was amazing to be able to tell the team about Tiffany and carry on her memory in that way this week. It's amazing what an inspiration she still is, even for people who haven't met her. So that was this morning, before our four mile run. Today was what is called a "step down day" which means we took it easy and ran a shorter distance so our bodies can rejuvenate. Sounds easy enough, right? Wrong. Today it poured down rain. I've never ran in so much rain before; a couple minutes into the run my clothes were drenched. I was stepping in puddles that sent water straight through my shoes and socks, and at the turn around point rain was coming down so hard I could barely see. It was definitely one of the harder days, but I did it. We did it. Sharing in the mission moment today allowed me to meet some great people. I ran with one of the mentors, Julie, who is a cancer survivor and also has a twin. I don't think I have ever met a set of twins, one with cancer, one without, but today I did. Well, I met one of them. Her sister runs for the orange county team in training. Despite the rain and horrible running conditions today, I can say that it was a good day. I am so thankful to be a part of this team and to have the amazing support system around me. I will update this again, soon. Thank you everyone for taking the time to check up on my progress and thank you for your continuous support.