Hi! I’m Cathy
Welcome to my Blog!
A few years ago when I started this blog, the name Running2Run seemed appropriate because I was so busy running around all day long trying to get things accomplished so I could get my run in. So, I was truly Running2Run.
This blog name is even more appropriate now! Running for me has been a challenge over the years, but the last few years have been almost non-existent. Lots of ups and downs. Plus, I have had knee problems that have sidelined me, and I have been diagnosed with bilateral knee osteoarthritis. I thought my running days were over. In fact, the orthopedic doctor basically said “take up swimming”!! Yea…Whatever!
But, recent studies on running with osteoarthritis have given me renewed hope that I can continue to run. Apparently, the more I can run, the better it is for my arthritis. So I am, again, Running2Run. This blog post explains running with knee osteoarthritis in a little more detail. I am not sure to the extent that I will be able to run. I have been doing mostly run/walk programs but I have not been all that successful with them. Recent strengthening exercises are making a difference. If I can build a strong base, I do hope to run marathons again.
In the meantime, I am working to build strength and flexibility which has contributed to my being able to run at all. I am also back to cross-country skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing. I haven’t been able to do most of these activities because of knee pain.
And I am really excited about getting out more on my new fat tire bike. It is really going to help with that strengthening plus it is just as fun (maybe even more fun) as skiing, running, and all those outdoor activities that I love.
As I mentioned, I hope to get back to running marathons. The last marathon I ran was the Chicago Marathon in 2017. I absolutely love that race. So far, it is my favorite. And I just happen to be registered for the 2022 race!! My daughter made that race so special for me in 2017, and I know if I can run it this year, she will be there with me. Hopefully, Scott will be able to come this time.
Besides blogging about running, I love spending time with family here in Alaska and I usually give little updates on what we are up to in this crazy state. They are the best. I also have a family that resides in the “lower 48” that I do get to spend time with occasionally and you will read about them as well.
And last but not least by no means is my Mother. She passed away this past year, and that has been hard to accept. She meant the world to me, and she always wanted the best for all of us. She was always encouraging and supportive of anything I ever wanted to do. I would call her practically every day (she lived in NC) and she would ask about my running almost every time that we talked. She genuinely cared about it because it was important to me. She had so much courage and strength and was just an amazing person. This year of hard work and training is dedicated to her. She will be with me in Chicago in spirit. I miss her so much.
Join me on this return to running journey and feel free to share your experiences as well.
