Wow, my first marathon experience! I must say it was definitely something I want to do again. I cannot explain fully the emotions that I felt throughout the whole process. What an honor to be a part of Team McGraw and have the opportunity to serve other caregivers, cancer survivors and those who have lost loved ones as I have. I was so proud to honor my Christy and share our story with so many. Team Christy traveled to Nashville in force in support of Team McGraw and one another. We loved big and were loved big in return.
Friday night was an opportunity to meet some of our fellow runners at the Bowling for Brains get together. We enjoyed great food, bowling and live music. We were so welcomed by our new friends at Team McGraw. The love is just so beautiful and so needed. To be supported by others who have gone through or are going through the same experiences that you are is quite extraordinary. I received a miniature guitar autographed by Tim McGraw as the top fundraiser, which is pretty ironic in that I have been playing the guitar daily for the past 8 weeks and even bought a new electric just last week.
Race day started early and with little sleep. I was so excited to meet more Team McGraw members and hear some of their stories. Runners with brain cancer, runners who have lost spouses and other loved ones; quite a team! The buzz at the start was amazing with thousands of runners starting before our corral. The course was quite hilly and difficult, but with lots of bands and supporters along the route and lots of prayer, I was able to keep my legs going. Our Team Christy supporters really lifted us up on miles 4 & 8, giving a nice adrenaline rush! Again, running with Team McGraw, we had supporters all along the course shouting encouragement. I was also blessed to share about Team McGraw and my beautiful Christy as runners would come beside me and ask about Team McGraw. I felt so close to Christy and so honored to share her love in this very tangible way. I know our whole team experienced many opportunities to share Christy’s story.
I was taxed mentally, physically and spiritually. At times I cried and felt deep sadness as we stayed in a place that Christy and I had vacationed many times before. The memories were so strong of our times together, that I could picture her almost everywhere we went. During the race, I felt her presence in the beauty of the surroundings; the sky, the city, the people. I prayed most of the time I was running. I can’t really describe the intense emotions, but I will not soon forget. I believe I received some healing this past weekend.
I was so proud of Team Christy as we all worked together; whether running, walking, yelling encouragement or providing transportation. We all carried our precious Christy with us in our hearts and I believe we really made an impact on Nashville. Thanks you Jesus for blessing me and allowing me to be a part of such a great love story!
Blessings,
Doug