Since I lost my husband, Ruben Garza, to cancer on October 12, 2011, I've been throwing myself into physical challenges, often for a good cause. I guess it's part of my grieving process - or part of my attempt to avoid the grieving process - I'm not really sure. Some people have advised me to relax - to learn to sit still with my thoughts and feelings. Maybe I will get to that point, but for now I will seek catharsis in adventure. I will heal by helping. I will run, ride, and write my way through one more day... and eventually through one more year. Here are some pictures from the last few years' feats:
The physical challenge: I have 365 days to log 4,000 training miles, an average of 75 miles per week. Running, cycling, swimming, and hiking will all count. I'm not sure what else I will get myself into, but let's throw in paddling, just in case. And it all starts tomorrow.
So why 4,000? In case you don't know, I am the Executive Director for an amazing nonprofit organization called Texas 4000 for Cancer. Our mission is to fight cancer by sharing hope, knowledge and charity. We cultivate the next generation to lead the fight against cancer through our signature program, a more than 4,000 mile bike ride from Austin to Anchorage. UT students go through a rigorous application process in order to spend 18 months of their lives raising money, volunteering, training, and planning their self-supported trek to Alaska.
No, I am NOT riding my bike to Alaska. I couldn't leave work or home or my life as I know it for 70 days, nor would the students really want me tagging along. But I'm endlessly inspired by what they take on, so I'm borrowing a page from their book and aiming for 4,000. They each need to raise $4,500 for cancer research and support services prior to their departure. I'm shooting for $11,000 - that's $1,000 for each year of the Texas 4000 ride. This money will support Texas 4000 - the organization nearest and dearest to my heart right now. Texas 4000 develops young leaders and funds specific cancer research and survivor support initiatives. Check out my personal page to learn how you can help.
I know I won't be able to do this alone. I have an amazing support system upon which I will be relying heavily. Waking up before sunrise, training through blisters and mental roadblocks, dedicating hours of my weekend... these are not things that come naturally to me. Sure, I love how I feel (most of the time) after completing a workout. I can usually push through with the right playlist blaring loudly, but I much prefer company. As inspiration for me and hopefully others, I've decided that anyone who bikes 100 miles, runs 25 miles, or swims 5 miles with me will get to make a dedication on my training shirt. Others may donate $100 for the same privilege.
You are cordially invited to join me on this slightly crazy journey. The blog will evolve as I do and will likely cover fitness updates, inspirations, struggles, memories of Ruben, and who knows what else. Feel free to leave a comment on my fundraising page any time if you'd like to train with me, tell me your cancer story, or supply me with some motivation.
I miss Ruben every moment of every day, but am grateful to know I am never alone.
