Ten ~ #RunPhilRun
So … just under 10 weeks to go. 69 days from today, I’ll be doing my first of five, 24k runs.
I had my first meeting with Lyn, my running coach from DYNAFIT in Listowel last week and one of the things she stressed is how big a role my mind will play in all of this. She encouraged me to remove as much negativity from my life as possible … at least until the run is over 😉
She’s right of course but my big challenge with that, is going to be the negative self-talk that to often consumes me. Many of my thoughts lately have been along the lines of, “What the hell am I thinking?!”
In the beginning, when it was all talk, 24k/day didn’t seem like all that much. When I was at the height of some of my worst mental health struggles a few years ago, walking 24k a day wasn’t uncommon, so I was confident I could do it. It wasn’t until I was driving home from Blyth recently that I looked at a long stretch of road ahead of me and thought … man, that’s a looong way. Weird how one simple thought is sometimes all it takes to fuel lots of negative self-talk.
“Whether you believe you can do a thing or not, you are right.” ~ Henry Ford
I guess if I had to pick one thing that’s blown me away the past few weeks, it would be the support and encouragement that’s come our way and the many people, organizations and local businesses who have joined our ranks to battle a common enemy. I’m finding great comfort and confidence in all of that, so thank you team!
And, I do mean “team”.
As I continue to train both my body and my mind, I’m so grateful to have so many spectacular people around me:
My family…never anything but supportive, encouraging and loving.
My friends: Shaun, Bonnie, Jodi, Ally …you all mean SO much to me! Your choice to love me, even when it’s hard, is nothing shy of miraculous.
My friend and Program Director at Classic Rock, Nathan Marshall whose encouragement to use my position at the station to “do good” never wavers.
The foundations who have been selfless and focused on our mission to spread hope and help to those who battle mental illness.
And, have you ever seen the movie “The Blind Side?” It’s the story of Michael Oher who rose from traumatic beginnings to become a first round NFL draft pick. The “blind side” position is the left tackle and it’s that player’s job to protect the quarterback. I’m so grateful to have one of my best friends and skilled engager and social media guru, Genny Smith as a “left tackle.” Genny has already volunteered countless hours helping to manage the run, the social, the paperwork, sponsorships … and my insecurities. 😉
There are others joining our team daily and you’ll be hearing more about them in the coming days. For now, my final nod this week goes to you. Thank you for your willingness to support, encourage, be engaged and to do good.
Mental Health Awareness is important. Many days it feels all uphill, but if I’m certain of just one thing, it’s this … We can do it … together.
Learn more about the run HERE.
Click on the name to learn more about some of the foundations we’re supporting.
Tanner Steffler Foundation
Wes For Youth Online
#GetInTouchForHutch
