As many of you know, I had a pulmonary embolism in the fall of 2016. Part of what crushed my spirit during that whole experience was seeing so many stories about how difficult recovery could be. Of course I was thrilled to have survived in the first place, but knowing that I was likely to feel fatigue and shortness of breath for 6 months to a year was disheartening for someone who truly enjoys physical activity.
Long story short, my recovery went amazing, and I had my body to thank for that. I trained for and ran my first full marathon in under a year post-PE. I have since been very vocal about my experiences, and hopes that someone in my position may stumble across it and have just a little more positive outlook than I had.
I have also been very vocal about encouraging others to look out for signs and symptoms of blood clots, and making sure those around me are aware of the risk factors they may have. A few months ago, I stumbled across a nonprofit organization (National Blood Clot Alliance) whose mission is to promote education and awareness about blood clots and their treatment. Their focus is on early diagnosis, more effective treatment, and hopefully decreasing the number of people who die everyday from blood clots (274 people every single day, by way).
Turns out, this non-profit also has an athletic team made up of people who have been affected by blood clots. A whole team of people who have fought through the same things I did, and came through the other side stronger. These are the people just like me, looking to show others that recovery doesn't have to be a looming black cloud.
I have done a lot of fundraising in the past for various charities I hold close to my heart. I can't think of a reason not to support an organization that so closely mirrors my goals.
Now, I'm not training for a full marathon this year, but I will be running the Detroit Free Press half marathon on October 21st. Much like my training & fundraising in 2016, I am going to commit to donating a dollar for every mile I run between today and race day.
If you have even a dollar to spare and want to support a truly important cause, please consider donating.
I already ordered my Team Stop the Clot shirt for race day. Let's do this 💪
