Mind the gap …..

They say a picture is worth a thousands words….

….. so let me unpick this one and see how many words it takes!

“Mind the gap” – 7-8 months with no running. Getting ready then recovering from my operation to remove the tumour. A stark reminder of my “sabbatical” as I now call it at work. Reflective of so much else that got put in hold.

“Don’t look back in anger “. The funny thing is that as I reflect back on this period there are of course there are some scars and painful memories. Yet my overriding feeling is the memory of just how well people reached out and looked after me. The love and care of family and friends, messages of support. Reconnecting with people and the joy they brought as they joined me on my recovery journey. I still remember the absolute high when told the Oncology team weren’t interested in seeing me – all clear.

Maybe it says how I have tried to approach my recovery with positivity that I remember the good stuff first!

“Take it easy ….” Quite proud of the fact I followed the couch to 5k programme. No steaming off on long runs – lots of intervals sessions before building up to 30 minute runs and 5k. Not long then to 10k. Letting my body get back into the swing of running. Adjusting to having a stoma vest.

Run Forrest, run!”…. Above all I look back at last year – nearly 1,200k. 2023 average was closer to 150k per week. The last few weeks have reminded me just how much I love to run!

“The only way is up…”. …. . Looking forward to getting back to that 100k average. Probably back up to more ahead of my next half marathon in September – this weekend will aim to book for the Winchester half marathon. Being joined by Ben and Gideon. Others welcome! 😀❤️ 🏃‍♂️