3-23-2018
It’s March and it’s snowy and I can’t think of where to start. Last I left you all I was getting ready for my first 5K, the Gift of Life 5k. Over the last year, while working with the Circuit Clerk’s Trust for Life I have learned that I knew nothing about organ and tissue donation. I’m lucky to have spent the time with recipients and educators through the Trust to understand their mission and to become a better ambassador for organ and tissue donation as well. It’s truly a critical service the Trust provides to continue the growth of the organ donation registry and to inform the public while addressing organ donation misconceptions.
Now, back to the race. Prior to my injury I had been a pretty strong 5K runner and I knew the Gift of Life 5K was going to be a challenge. My therapist, Jim Rothbauer (best therapist ever), and the majority of his staff came to participate and support me as did most of my friends and family who live nearby. Thank you so much. My goal was to try and run under 30 minutes for the 3.1 mile distance and as I rolled up and down the streets near college park I was lucky to have my sister, Cole Adams Maier, “sprint” the finish with me to complete the course in 29 minutes and 27 seconds. As I explained to the crowd after the race, it was the hardest 5K I have ever completed as well as the most rewarding.
While I ran the race and completed my goal I know that it was through everyone’s support, prayers, positivity, and love that I was able to train and get through the race which has led me to a fun and very busy fall and winter. I’ll get to that in the next few posts….