The inaugural Portland Half Marathon 10-10-2010....running for a cause

OK.  I did it.  I took another giant step for "Heatherkind".  A step that will help out during this crazy journey of becoming a healthier Heather.  I signed up to run another half marathon!  [This is the part where you start clapping and cheering for me.  A few tears of joy rolling down your face would be a nice touch.] 

I was elated to hear the Portland Marathon is hosting their inaugural half marathon this year.  I almost cried when I went to register, and in big, red letters I read, "The event is SOLD OUT! Registration is now closed for the Half.".  Sigh.  Good thing I'm determined & somewhat observant.  I noticed the blurb also went on to say they still have charity runner spots open.  I took a look at the list of charities to support, and it took me no time at all to make up my mind.  Ladies and gentlemen, I'll be running as a Susan G. Komen Marathon For The Cure "Team Portland 2010" registrant, and could not be more excited to run for such an excellent cause!  I think registration being closed was a blessing in disguise.

Why is this particular charity the one I've chosen to support?  #1. I have boobs.  #2. Two of my aunts had breast cancer.  One is a 20+ year survivor.  One passed away several years ago of colon cancer.  #3. My grandmother passed away shortly after having a mastectomy.  #4.  I have a daughter, a sister, a mother, friends, enemies, neighbors, and coworkers who all deserve to see a cure come about in their lifetime.  #5.  Just because. 

So for myself & all of the reasons I listed above, I'll run 13.1 miles on 10-10-10 in Portland, Oregon.  The only goal I have is for my knee to not kill me the entire way through like it did during my first half marathon.  (Physical therapy has done wonders for me, but I have a loooong way to go before my knee is ready to run 13 miles again.)  Oh, and I could also skip the diarrhea part as well.  That was more than unpleasant. I really do not wish to relive it ever again.  EVER.  N-e-v-e-r. Gross.

{my official entry form}

Because I'm running as a charity registrant, I'll be raising funds.  I'll be talking about it A LOT.  Mainly because if I don't raise the funds....my credit card will be charged $500.00.  [gulp]  That was not an easy thing to explain to my husband.  So I have to raise $500.00, and that's a lot to raise, in my opinion.  I've got several ideas on how I can earn the cash (other than just asking for donations).  Of course, some sewing will be involved.  I'm envisioning lots of pink fabric in my near future. lol  Anything I make & sell from here on out will be 100% donation worthy.  I also have a few other ideas in my back pocket.  Mowing lawns.  Scrubbing toilets.  Teaching couponing & healthier cooking classes to my friends who have begged me repeatedly to do so.  I'll do whatever it takes!  I'll tell you more about it once I find out more.  Until then, wish me (and my bum knee) luck!

www.active.com/donate/Portland10/HCacak