Running the dream

As I sat down to write this, my sister posted a message to my Facebook wall saying, “Three months from today is the Chicago Marathon.”

That message was the boost I needed after a pretty tough week. I’ve been struggling with an injury to my right foot. The good news is I finally feel completely recovered. The bad news is I feel a little behind in my training.

This week, I also took my first vacation since having my heart attack on Dec. 18, 2012. I traveled to upstate New York to visit my family, meet my new nephew and do some camping. I was nervous about my diet, but my family was very supportive — I was able to prepare heart-healthy meals, even in the great outdoors. I also was able to get a few runs in, but had to take it easy to allow my foot to heal.

I also have had a lot to celebrate. This month I turned 33. Turning 33 probably doesn’t seem like a big deal to most people, but to me it was an amazing gift. My Chicago “family” threw me a “You Made It One More Year” BBQ. I had an amazing time and felt really loved.

This was probably my favorite birthday yet. Unlike past birthdays, this year I understood just how lucky we are to get older. Every day, every minute and every second we get on this planet is a gift.

This upcoming week is also going to be pretty exciting. I have a follow-up appointment with my cardiologist, I have a couple runs planned with Seth, one of my cardiac rehabilitation nurses at Advocate Health Care.

On Sunday, July 21, Seth and I completed the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon! This was the furthest either of us has ever run. It was so exciting to cross this milestone off of my list.

Stay tuned for more about my longest race yet and my marathon training. Until then, keep moving!

Read Dan’s first blog post here.