For those that don't know the analogy above: I participate in a relay race every year called Hood to Coast. Essentially a twelve person team, split between two vehicles (6 a piece) runs roughly 200 miles trading off "legs" or distances within each van and then hands the baton off to the other vehicle after six legs have been completed. We do this hand off three times, so each runner completes a total of three "legs" each. It's fun, it's brotherhood (we run an all male team), it's exhilarating, in a way, indescribable.Monday the woundVAC was removed for the last time, scratch man-purse on my left side making funny gurgling sounds. Tuesday, was the second to last visit to the doctor, intravenous antibiotics complete, PICC line removed, scratch right side pump and tourist-like fanny pack. I am now free of all machines and tubes. Annie is now changing the wound dressing with intermittent nurse visits to poke, measure and monitor. I can finally take a normal shower, Annie is pleased. We follow-up with the doctor on March 22nd to do a final blood draw and absolutely verify I am free of the infection before we head up to the Bay Area for a couple of months.
Yes, one leg complete. As for the next two legs, next up is the "Easy does it Cowboy". Now that I am rid of the infection, it's time to ease back into the life I once knew. I've brought a trainer into the mix that works with professional athletes to create a physical therapy program that is aggressive yet mindful. There are so many things to be grateful for in my life. I am most grateful for Annie. She has been my light, my rock, my conscious, my everything. She continually demonstrates to me the life I want to live, a life full of gratitude and humility.
The last leg, the third leg or "Soul Train" of this journey will hopefully end on the starting line of the Leadville Trail 100 Running Race on August 21st at 4am. Realistically, this may not happen, I may not have enough time left this year to train properly, but I am going to attempt safely, humbly and without regret to run this race in August.Thank you for all the support from family and friends, I am grateful and eternally indebted. You are my warmth on a cold winter day, my shield from a ferocious wind and light in moments of darkness.
In the microcosm that has been my life, I've mentioned a couple of times the importance of the small things in life. This process has certainly made me aware of those small things I take for granted everyday without even knowing it.
