Monday, July 23, 2007

Delayed at the Airport

Well here I sit, delayed on my flight to Denver for about an hour it appears. I could have ran after all this morning if I could have foreseen the delay.

As I sat here I watched a soldier preparing to board another flight. Apparently TSA relaxes their restrictions on non-travellers being in the boarding area for our brave fighting men and women, as he had his family there with him (wife, 2 daughters and son). I'm not sure how many might shed a tear for someone they don't even know, but I'll admit that I did. Watching them saying goodbye, all the hugs, photos, kisses, and more hugs and kisses, to the final wave as he entered the jet-way, it was very touching. That has to be the ultimate in goodbyes, not knowing if you will see him again. He was dressed in desert camo so I assume he must be headed to Iraq. His son was trying valiently to not cry (he appeared to be about 14 or so) and I don't if he was successful or not. I said a prayer for the soldier and his family and for all men and women defending freedom around the world. What a tearful sight.

I read an article in the current Runner's World magazine here at the airport about Project Hope, where two American women are dedicating efforts to help under-priveledged kids in Kenya gain access to running shoes and clothing, giving these kids, most of whom are orphans from parents that have died of AIDS, an opportunity to do something with their lives. It got me to thinking....

When I was at my cardiologists office in late June she was jumping up and down excited about my running and my progress since my bypass surgery in 2005. She said she wanted to make me her poster person for cardiac rehab work. I'm just an "over-the-hill" runner wanna-be, but it seems that I'm doing more than most that have gone thru this type of surgery. I may talk further with her to see if there is anything I can do to encourage cardiac care patients to get out and exercise more.....not just give up and sit in the easy chair. I know I can't "make" people exercise...but if they can see where I've been....what I've overcome, not just with the cardiac surgery but also with my weight loss perhaps they will see a light for themselves, an opportunity to extend their own life by improving their health through some form of consistent exercise. It doesn't even have to be running...or as with my case at the moment...run/walk. I enjoy speaking and wouldn't mind addressing rehab groups if that would be an appropriate avenue to take. Just thinking outside the box so to speak.

Yesterday was a day of rest and I feel that it was good to have that down time. Today I will run but it won't be until this evening after I get settled in Denver. I have to caution myself and remind myself to eat a light dinner, as I am sure I won't get the run in until after dinner sometime. Last week I had another 30+ mile week...woohoo....and it felt great. I've got 83 miles and some change for the month...with a goal of doing 100+ for the month...first time ever if I can get there. We have another long run scheduled for this weekend so I should be able to make it.

I hope everyone has a great Monday and a fantastic week!!!

9 comments:

Jess said...

I saw that same article in RW. I think you should definitely explore avenues of helping cardiac patients. That's a really great thing to do.

Mary Gee said...

What a great post. Thank you. Be careful in Denver. It is HOT and high altitude - but I am sure you know that.

Michelle said...

Randy, that would be so great if you could inspire others who have been in your shoes to get out there and exercise.

And you are not a "wanna-be" runner. You ARE a runner!!! :-)

Mom tried decaf once said...

Randy that was touching! I hope there is a way you can get others to run too!

ws said...

I've witnessed the deployed servicemen goodbyes in airports too many times over the last 3 years of traveling. Your post gave me the chills, because I always get teary-eyed watching, even though I have no connection to the family. Good luck with your other endeavor. 100 miles this month is totally within reach, I'm sure you'll get there.

Pat said...

good luck on the 100 miles and the talks with cardiac patients. I think that's a great ideal.

Beware the altitude in Denver and don't forget to take pictures. Colorado is so scenic.

pat

Mendy said...

Randy, great post! all around. Hope you get to Denver soon. I think it's a great idea to help out the cardiac patients, too!

I would've shed a tear too...

Marcy said...

Awwhhh Randy your description at the airport makes ME teary :-(
I think you most definitely look into ways to inspire people to get out and "do something" You're definitely an inspiration to all of us ;D

And ITA with Michelle!! You're not a wannabe you ARE a runner!! God Lord I don't know anyone who has run in more races than you!!

Backofpack said...

Randy,
You should offer yourself as a speaker - even if they choose not to exercise, just hearing your story will offer hope. Hope that they will heal, that they can return to their previous life. You would be great at it!