Chicago - An experience
Oct0820077:55 p.m.
Despite what you may have heard in the news regarding the Chicago Marathon it was a great experience. Most certainly tragedy did play a part in that at least one person lost their life, however, to witness ordinary folks step up to assist was rather remarkable. Many people living in smaller neighborhoods were offering garden hoses, sprinklers and pitchers of water to runners. In addition, I noticed that people went in to grocery stores and purchased cases of water to distribute to runners as well. It is true that there were a few stations out of water early in the race, however, I was more than able to stay hydrated because of the care of the people of Chicago.
I did not make the cutoff of runners who were able to finish the race. I was given word somewhere between 16-17 miles and was re-routed to Grant Park. I figured I ran about 20 miles in all. I am a little disappointed because I felt in my heart that I would have finished given the opportunity, however, when people are falling ill to the heat, the officials were smart in thinking in the aggregate.
It is only through faith, hope and love that I was able to race on Sunday. I could not have done it without the prayers of others, the support from my family and the inspiration of a little girl who had cancer. As you may recall, I ran the race in honor of Sydnie, a five-year old girl who had a very aggressive type of cancer. My wife received a phone call the Monday following the race and learned that Sydnie had lost her battle, but it now living with our Lord in a better place.
I plan to give my medal and race bib to Sydnie's mother.
My bib # is 18177 if you would like to review my results.
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