Well, I’m about to start my third and final cycle of chemotherapy.
We are almost at mile 18 of this challenge, which as many of you London Marathon runners know that means we’ve reached Canary Wharf.
Canary Wharf certainly wasn’t my favourite part of the marathon. The rising temperatures were beginning to take their toll, the seemingly narrow streets, the towering buildings reflecting sunlight in all directions, the noisy crowds and the start of twinging calves all made running through Canary Wharf an unforgettably painful few miles. But, I made it through, breathed a huge sigh of relief as I ran down the exit road, composed myself and pushed on towards the finish.
Don’t misunderstand me, the last 8 miles were far from plain sailing BUT I chose not to listen to pre-race advice telling me “the first 20 miles of a marathon are easy, it’s the last 6 you need to worry about” – indeed I was at mile 24 before I realise I’d exceeded my “20 mile barrier”.
I’m sure, at times, the next three weeks of chemotherapy are going to have their tuppence say and add to the mounting side effects. When they do, it’s best to try and breathe a sigh of relief, compose myself and never forget though that chemotherapy is pushing me one step closer to the finish line.
I’ve been overwhelmed by the support from current, and new, clients, from business associates, from old friends re-connecting on facebook, and from newer friends on Twitter.
And of course, from the support of my family, all of whom must find it so difficult to see me facing this challenge on my own – just as they did on marathon day – hopefully realising that it’s precisely because they’re supporting me every step of the way I’m able to eat up the miles so easily.
Boy, am I looking forward to a post-race stout!
Thank you all for your continued support.
