It's been four weeks since my surgery and it's clear to me now that I won't be able to compete in IMFL. The muscles in my neck will take much longer to heal, I have lost all of my fitness, I'm having trouble swallowing which would get in the way of nutrition, and they severed a nerve which feeds my left arm/trapezius muscle. All of these issues will eventually heal. But it will take a few more months which is not enough time to be ready for November 5.
The past year of training was an amazing experience for me. I'm glad I did what I did even though I can not race. I'm looking forward to next year and the challenges it will bring. Looking back on this past year I have to say I am most proud of the 5K swim at The Ridges. It ended up being closer to 6K and it was by far the hardest mental and physical event I ever took place in. I'm also glad I found a way to overcome my tendon injury and keep running using the Galloway method.
If I learned anything this year, I learned to Keep Moving Forward. And so I will. And I hope you do as well. See you out there...in a pool or lake, on the open road or trail. Swimming. Biking. Or Running. Forever smiling. Thanks for sharing this past year with me.
I'm sorry that you're not going to be able to race, but I agree 100% with your assessment of how far you've come. This year will only make you stronger overall and make your eventual Ironman that much sweeter! :)
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