Cerebral Palsy and the Half-Marathon

Lately I have been hounding all my readers to get involved in their communities in matters regarding disabilities and children with special needs. I use this blog to get involved, and soon, I’ll be involved by way of a half-marathon. (Keep reading to see what I mean) Something many of my readers may not

I’ll be smiling like this after I complete the half-marathon.

know, if they don’t know me personally, is that I’m also very concerned with leading an active lifestyle. Now, I’m not perfect. I don’t follow a “clean” diet and refined carbs are not banned in my home. But I do try to do an “everything in moderation” plan. I also work out daily, resting on weekends.

Since involvement and fitness are both so important to me, I decided to figure out how to combine them. My search led me to a half-marathon event in Greenville, North Carolina, which is taking place in October. Proceeds for the race go to the North Carolina Special Olympics. I can’t think of a better way to get involved, while also doing something I enjoy.

Though enjoyable, it will be a challenge. The farthest I’ve ever run is ten miles, which was about a year ago. Granted, a half-marathon is only 3.1 miles farther than a ten miler, but I must admit, my running skills have declined some in recent months. I am determined to get on a schedule that works with my college classes and my “day job.” (I babysit sometimes). I can workout while watching kids, but going on an 8 mile run is not going to happen. So, I’m back to my early mornings, just like my old Army days. It’s worth it though, to have the bragging rights of having completed a half-marathon. It’s also worth it to contribute to something I believe in. This race is just the start though, as I plan to work up toward a full marathon. Before anyone asks me, I’m not interested in a triathlon, simply because I’m not a huge fan of biking. I don’t own a bike and don’t intend to.

One of the main reasons I’m such a proponent of physical activity (aside from twelve years in the military) is that I’ve always said Jayden and I can’t both be disabled. I workout to stay strong enough to lift him, bathe him, pick him up and dance with him, etc. I am hoping he is able to walk, or use a power chair before he is too heavy for me to lift and carry around, but I have to be prepared for the possibility that he won’t. With that being said, I work my ass off to stay fit.

I don’t expect everyone to aspire to complete an athletic event such as a marathon, half-marathon, or otherwise, but I would like to encourage my readers to stay on the path of healthy living. Get moving. Eat right. Stay strong for your children, but do it for yourself too.

If you are located in North Carolina, or a reasonable distance from here, and would like to train for the half-marathon, visit this website for details.