I don’t know how you go from a post saying I have cancer to “whoo hoo! I ran a half-marathon”, but if I did it in real life, surely the blog can handle it. This is my friend Jessica. We met in MOPS and have been running buddies 3 times a week for the last 3+ months. Not only has she kept me encouraged to run, but encourages me in so many other ways. I was honored to run this race with her, and grateful to have her by my side (for at least the first 12 miles!)
This was our first 1/2 marathon and oh! what an experience. To say it was just about the run is about the biggest understatement I could say. But the run itself was awesome. There was the preparation, the adrenalin rush, the crowd to fight through, the pain in my knee, the croaking frogs, the dance to remove my outer layer, the pain in my ankle, the sharkies, the quiet, and then the stadium. Jessica and I were together for almost 12 miles. We talk, we gawk at others, most importantly we keep each other going. But as she drifted ahead of me I found myself in the quiet with few runners around. And while I had wished we could have finished this race together, I knew I had to do it myself. Sound familar yet? Think I can tie this to cancer? Oh yes, I can.
The last few weeks, I have been supported and loved on by so many. The phone calls, the cards, gift cards, and a fundraiser in my name. I think – I don’t deserve any of this. But nevertheless, my friends are there. They are beside me, reassuring my feelings and showing me love. They are in this race with me. But there will come a point where I have to continue on alone. I will have God, no doubt, but I have to press on. I have to make the tough decisions. I have to live with the results. I have to get myself up and finish this race for myself. And in the end, just like my run today, I will hit the grass in that stadium, I will feel a high come from deep in my soul and I will have my victory.
You did it!! This is just one of many victories that lie ahead for you. You think you’re the one who is blessed…you have no idea. Love you, girl!
What an awesome testimony of where your trust lies and how you face this with confidence because of Him. I’m praying for you, Julie. Praying for healing. Praying for God’s comfort in all the feelings you must be experiencing. Praying for your family. Praying for His hand in this journey. Congratulations on your strong finish today! I can’t wait to see your next strong finish!
came across your blog through Jessica. so wonderful to meet you yesterday and so proud of you and Jess! i will keep you in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. i love your description of the race with the frogs and then the quiet. the frogs were crazy loud!
Julie– I am so very proud of you and Jessica!! You are going to beat this crazy cancer like you beat the crazy 1/2 marathon!! I am praying for you everyday and am here for you any time!!
Julie- it is so good to read about your strength and confidence that can only come from Him! I will be praying for you! I will pray for wisdom and discernment for you and Ethan as you make difficult decisions over the next few weeks. I know God will give you everything you need to fight through this! Let me know if I can do ANYTHING at all for you or your family!!
You are awesome!!!!
Rooting for Team Julie…..All the way!
Very proud of you! And you do deserve all the love!
Very thankful that you have so many great friends there to help you through this~
love you-
I am so proud of you and blessed by you in so many ways! Way to go Julie!
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Way to go Julie!!!
Julie- we only just heard today. Your strength amazes and inspires me. I know you are just doing what comes naturally- graceful and strong, as you are. We are also 100% team Julie. Prayers for your cont. Strength and full healing are right here for you.
Sharon & Jonathon
Julie~ Know of your battles through the years from Kedra. I just want you to know that I am praying for you to be blessed with more strength than Goliath! You will get through this and be a inspiration to all. The world needs more Julies!
Hi Julie – you are awesome! I ran my first half last year, and girl, you describe everything 100 times better than anyone. Way to go! Though we are not playing soccer together anymore, I always knew you were and still are a tough cookie! Really. Joen and I are thinking about you and praying that God brings healing and many more strong finishes your way! Maybe I’ll join you for another half marathon!