Always a Runner…With a Little Help From My Friends
Since last month, the term “always a runner” began to seem like it should be “sometimes a runner.” The comeback is just around the corner, but the avenue to get there will be a bit different.
We all have set backs. Injuries, personal obligations, and sickness all put us out of commission for a bit. The comeback though is usually the same. We start off slow, and gradually get back to our old routines, old workouts, old running trails. This time it’s a bit different and I’m very anxious about how it will play out.
You see, last month, I had a heart attack. Everyone asks “how did this happen? You are in such good shape.” Well I’m wondering too, along with my doctor. The heart attack was mild. The follow-up tests all showed healthy veins, arteries, and values. Blood pressure was good, although a bit low. No stint was needed. The treadmill test got me up to max heart rate with no signs of irregularities. So’ I’m healthy.
The doctor says I am fine. I can run in a month, BUT…carry nitroglycerin, and (here’s the hard part), don’t run by yourself. Now don’t get me wrong, I do like running with other runners, but I also cherish the time I have running alone. I’m sure you all know the joy. Since I have become fairly non-competitive (a nicer word for slower), I usually run the trails at my own pace, where and whenever I’d like. That’s gone.
One heartwarming (no pun intended) fact is that I have had so many friends and acquaintances telling me that they’d run with me. I guess I can look at this as just another chapter to my lifetime of being always a runner.