A note from the Run Manager:
David is currently in an area with no internet or cellular service. Unfortunately he will not be able to update the blog until he moves to the next area. Please check back on Saturday for his blog updates!
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
10kl walk/run by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
10kl walk/run by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Cut the run short today. I don't even know if I could call it much of a run. It was more like a walk.. The cough is really bad, it's just a dry hacking cough that causes my whole body to spasm. I dread the feeling of a cough coming on because I know how much it's going to hurt.
I was awoken last night for about an two hours from 3-5 doing nothing but coughing. The puffers have not taken full affect yet. So I am hoping that with another day of usage that whatever it is they do, starts to work.
Melissa had to check out of the hotel as they have over booked. The Hotels have been very generous in suplying rooms at a much lower rate. However when a regular paying customer comes along......Well she had to move.
We are able to keep the motor home parked and that is where I will stay tonight. We don't have any hookups (power, water, etc) but it still does not feel like "roughing" it.
Mom and Dad are out looking for some things for the motor home.
They have been fantastic. It's hard with me being sick because there is not allot for them to do. Not that following me in the jeep while I run is exiting but when I am just lying down in the motor home and we have no hookups there is not allot of activity. Sit and watch me be sick!
Cut the run short today. I don't even know if I could call it much of a run. It was more like a walk.. The cough is really bad, it's just a dry hacking cough that causes my whole body to spasm. I dread the feeling of a cough coming on because I know how much it's going to hurt.
I was awoken last night for about an two hours from 3-5 doing nothing but coughing. The puffers have not taken full affect yet. So I am hoping that with another day of usage that whatever it is they do, starts to work.
Melissa had to check out of the hotel as they have over booked. The Hotels have been very generous in suplying rooms at a much lower rate. However when a regular paying customer comes along......Well she had to move.
We are able to keep the motor home parked and that is where I will stay tonight. We don't have any hookups (power, water, etc) but it still does not feel like "roughing" it.
Mom and Dad are out looking for some things for the motor home.
They have been fantastic. It's hard with me being sick because there is not allot for them to do. Not that following me in the jeep while I run is exiting but when I am just lying down in the motor home and we have no hookups there is not allot of activity. Sit and watch me be sick!
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Leaving Corner Brook and heading to St Georges
Leaving Corner Brook and heading to St Georges by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
I did not sleep well last night. The wind was bad and the motor home was moving around like we are on the water. Then at about 3:00 there was a screaming women in the parking lot. I woke up not knowing what the noise was but was informed in the morning by Dad that there was a female freaking out in the parking lot. I just couldn't get into deep sleep mode. My spider sense was tingling all night. I just did not feel save.
This morning the weather was between -2 and 3 degrees. Wind was not an issue today. It was quite and nice on an Easter run.
I was met up again by Jordon who slowed down his normal pace to run with me. What a great guy and family. He was really intrigued in what brain injury was and I loved the questions. It's great when people are curious. He is also one intelligent kid. Look out Canada you might have a new Olympian on your hands!!
So thanks for keeping this tired old guy moving today Jordan. I continued about another 10kl or so. Making the day top out at about 28kl I think. Hey it was easter!! I figured a half marathon was a nice way to spend the day.
Melissa is sick and I would not let her do anything today. So Mom and Dad and I went for Easter Dinner at the Stevenville Holiday Inn!!
We are all exhausted today. Time to rest up and get ready for tomorrow!!
I did not sleep well last night. The wind was bad and the motor home was moving around like we are on the water. Then at about 3:00 there was a screaming women in the parking lot. I woke up not knowing what the noise was but was informed in the morning by Dad that there was a female freaking out in the parking lot. I just couldn't get into deep sleep mode. My spider sense was tingling all night. I just did not feel save.
This morning the weather was between -2 and 3 degrees. Wind was not an issue today. It was quite and nice on an Easter run.
I was met up again by Jordon who slowed down his normal pace to run with me. What a great guy and family. He was really intrigued in what brain injury was and I loved the questions. It's great when people are curious. He is also one intelligent kid. Look out Canada you might have a new Olympian on your hands!!
So thanks for keeping this tired old guy moving today Jordan. I continued about another 10kl or so. Making the day top out at about 28kl I think. Hey it was easter!! I figured a half marathon was a nice way to spend the day.
Melissa is sick and I would not let her do anything today. So Mom and Dad and I went for Easter Dinner at the Stevenville Holiday Inn!!
We are all exhausted today. Time to rest up and get ready for tomorrow!!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Deer Lake to Corner Brook
Deer Lake to Corner Brook by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Today I was running and I noticed two people running on a side a side street. A little later on while listening to the Ricky Gervais podcast I was surprised to find them right behind me.
It was Ray Baird and his son Jordon. Jordan and his Dad are both Triathletes and were out for a training run. Jordon came back later on to have his picture taken with me as he is going to do a report on brain injury for school. Jordon is also a high level Triathlete and could outrun me any day of the week.
A little later in the day Aubrey Sanders from Corner Brook Regional High showed up and ran with me. A few kilometers in and David Decker from the Corner Brook Running Club joined us as well.
David was on a taper run for his upcoming Marathon. His first!! So good luck on your Marathon David.
Yeah Easter tomorrow!! Run a marathon and then something other than salad for dinner!!
It was Ray Baird and his son Jordon. Jordan and his Dad are both Triathletes and were out for a training run. Jordon came back later on to have his picture taken with me as he is going to do a report on brain injury for school. Jordon is also a high level Triathlete and could outrun me any day of the week.
A little later in the day Aubrey Sanders from Corner Brook Regional High showed up and ran with me. A few kilometers in and David Decker from the Corner Brook Running Club joined us as well.
David was on a taper run for his upcoming Marathon. His first!! So good luck on your Marathon David.
Yeah Easter tomorrow!! Run a marathon and then something other than salad for dinner!!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Ending up in PynnsBrook
Ending up in PynnsBrook by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Today started off well and for the most part was a perfect run. It was cold, snowy but the wind was on my side.
My ankles are starting to hurt. So I have added some stretches and added some cushioning insoles to help ease the discomfort.
My Mom took this picture and accidently left the flash on. However compared the picture without the flash on this one just looked so good. She caught the clouds, the road, and the sign. Look at the color of the tree's!!
Great Picture Mom!!
Great Picture Mom!!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Birchy Lake and Beyond!! by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Birchy Lake and Beyond!! by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
This is what we woke up to this morning!
I managed a full marathon today. One thing I have to point out. I have downloaded the Ricky Gervais Podcasts to my I phone. There are times when it is so funny, I mean bellly laughing funny, that I wonder what people must think when they see this guy running on the highway with a truck with safety lights on behind him. Laughing so hard he can't keep running.
Today was another day of counting Tim Horton's cups in the ditch at the side of the road. However with no wind fighting me I was able to run the full distance in just over 5 hours.
Got home, stretched, ate a big salad upload my pics and Garmin Data. Get set for sleep.
This is what we woke up to this morning!
I managed a full marathon today. One thing I have to point out. I have downloaded the Ricky Gervais Podcasts to my I phone. There are times when it is so funny, I mean bellly laughing funny, that I wonder what people must think when they see this guy running on the highway with a truck with safety lights on behind him. Laughing so hard he can't keep running.
Today was another day of counting Tim Horton's cups in the ditch at the side of the road. However with no wind fighting me I was able to run the full distance in just over 5 hours.
Got home, stretched, ate a big salad upload my pics and Garmin Data. Get set for sleep.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Morning run through Birchy Lake by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Morning run through Birchy Lake by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Yesterday's run. Sick today, but starting to feel better after about 10 hours of sleep. Tomorrow is another run.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Sick in Newfoundland
So I had a run today. Can't remember the distance. I am really sick. Yesterday I ran without a hat on and I got a sunburn on my skull. So on top of throwing up, and a cough and sore throat. My skull is burnt!!
So I did the first half of the run, then we went to a high school (don't remember high school name) then to the new place to park the Motorhome at the Rocky Brook Cabins.
Will update todays run tomorrow. I am going to eat soup and go to bed.
So I did the first half of the run, then we went to a high school (don't remember high school name) then to the new place to park the Motorhome at the Rocky Brook Cabins.
Will update todays run tomorrow. I am going to eat soup and go to bed.
Monday, April 18, 2011
From South Brook Newfoundland and on by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
From South Brook Newfoundland and on by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Today was mentally exhausting. At the 20kl mark my music ran out of power, at the 30kl mark my Garmin ran out of power. At about 36kl I ran out of power.
It is mentally frustrating to push myself so hard and reach such a minimum distance. I know how much a 10kl takes out of me. I know how much a 1/2 marathon takes out of me. I know how much a marathon a day after a 1/2 marathon takes out of me. However I am having the biggest challenge getting used to this wind. It's like running with an extra me on my back.
We pushed on after the Garmin died and did a total of 36.3kl today. Mom and Dad stopped at the Junction Inn to get a hot dog and I was resting (I had a hot dog as well) The lady there recognized the Run To Remember sign on the jeep from an email. So that was cool.
I am however exhausted. I am glad Melissa has got the Run To Remember website http://www.runtoremember.com/ you can go to Location. Where is David? and you can track the SPOT GPS tracker.
Picture of the day
Today was mentally exhausting. At the 20kl mark my music ran out of power, at the 30kl mark my Garmin ran out of power. At about 36kl I ran out of power.
It is mentally frustrating to push myself so hard and reach such a minimum distance. I know how much a 10kl takes out of me. I know how much a 1/2 marathon takes out of me. I know how much a marathon a day after a 1/2 marathon takes out of me. However I am having the biggest challenge getting used to this wind. It's like running with an extra me on my back.
We pushed on after the Garmin died and did a total of 36.3kl today. Mom and Dad stopped at the Junction Inn to get a hot dog and I was resting (I had a hot dog as well) The lady there recognized the Run To Remember sign on the jeep from an email. So that was cool.
I am however exhausted. I am glad Melissa has got the Run To Remember website http://www.runtoremember.com/ you can go to Location. Where is David? and you can track the SPOT GPS tracker.
Picture of the day
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Somewhere in Newfoundland to South Brook by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Somewhere in Newfoundland to South Brook by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Long run today. Felt good. Good weather, beautiful scenery.
Today was cold but sunny.
Just when I was hitting one of the last hills Queen's We are the champions came on my playlist. Made the run!!
Long run today. Felt good. Good weather, beautiful scenery.
Today was cold but sunny.
Just when I was hitting one of the last hills Queen's We are the champions came on my playlist. Made the run!!
Saturday, April 16, 2011
From Grand Falls-Windsor to Joes Lake by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
From Grand Falls-Windsor to Joes Lake by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
One of the things that amazes me is that I am not an athlete. I don't mean this in a "putting myself down" kind of way. I really am not an athlete. I am just a guy with a brain injury. I am a guy that sat in cubicle and played video games. I was relativly content.
When I had my TBI I entered a new world. It was a shock. It was new language, a new me, a new everything. I was trying so hard to learn this new world. However my brain was new as well.
I got angry. I got angry at the lack of progress. I got angry my S.S. worker was on mat leave and there was no one to replace her. I got angry that when I moved in with my parents in another area I slipped through the cracks of social service. I got angry the brain surgeon was such an ass. I got angry I had to rely on my parents to take me places. I got angry my job didn't work out. I got angry school didn't work out. I got angry my wife had to get another job to make the mortgage payments. I got angry when the brain injury association closed down. I got angry at everything. Sometimes I got angry at being angry.
I ran when I was angry. However I was never angry at the end of a run. Running became something I could do by myself. I am not a great runner. I am not a fast runner. However I am a consistent distance runner. I don't start strong but I always finish.
When my attempts at school failed it really hit me heard. I felt useless, I felt unreliable, I felt like less of a man. I felt that there was more to life than this. I had so much inside me trying to get out.
I started thinking about running across the country. It was not because I am altruistic, it was not because I was hoping to get people excited about running.
I started running because I was angry. I wanted to do this run because of what I was able to do for myself, by running. I felt like I could do something. Like I could add something. I could do something that made up for some, of what I was unable to do.
It lead me to running across the country. It lead me to realizing I can do so many things. It lead me to think of the change that can happen. I mean if a guy who worked in a cubicle and his biggest achievement was Xbox live Gamer Tag rating, could run across the country. Imagine what others can do.
There are times I wish I had this drive before. I do. I miss the previous me sometimes. However, and this is weird for me to be the guy saying this, if someone else can reach that same level of drive avoiding the brain injury part. Just imagine what they can do.
If you work hard enough, if you reach out hard enough, you can do anything.
Thoughts while Running.
When I had my TBI I entered a new world. It was a shock. It was new language, a new me, a new everything. I was trying so hard to learn this new world. However my brain was new as well.
I got angry. I got angry at the lack of progress. I got angry my S.S. worker was on mat leave and there was no one to replace her. I got angry that when I moved in with my parents in another area I slipped through the cracks of social service. I got angry the brain surgeon was such an ass. I got angry I had to rely on my parents to take me places. I got angry my job didn't work out. I got angry school didn't work out. I got angry my wife had to get another job to make the mortgage payments. I got angry when the brain injury association closed down. I got angry at everything. Sometimes I got angry at being angry.
I ran when I was angry. However I was never angry at the end of a run. Running became something I could do by myself. I am not a great runner. I am not a fast runner. However I am a consistent distance runner. I don't start strong but I always finish.
When my attempts at school failed it really hit me heard. I felt useless, I felt unreliable, I felt like less of a man. I felt that there was more to life than this. I had so much inside me trying to get out.
I started thinking about running across the country. It was not because I am altruistic, it was not because I was hoping to get people excited about running.
I started running because I was angry. I wanted to do this run because of what I was able to do for myself, by running. I felt like I could do something. Like I could add something. I could do something that made up for some, of what I was unable to do.
It lead me to running across the country. It lead me to realizing I can do so many things. It lead me to think of the change that can happen. I mean if a guy who worked in a cubicle and his biggest achievement was Xbox live Gamer Tag rating, could run across the country. Imagine what others can do.
There are times I wish I had this drive before. I do. I miss the previous me sometimes. However, and this is weird for me to be the guy saying this, if someone else can reach that same level of drive avoiding the brain injury part. Just imagine what they can do.
If you work hard enough, if you reach out hard enough, you can do anything.
Thoughts while Running.
I did not want to run today. I am still sick and I get whiny when I am sick. Just ask my wife. To add to the fact that I was sick it was between -10c and 1.6c temperature wise. It was cold. My runny noise froze to my face. I could not use my drink tube because the tube froze. However the sun was out and the run was like running in a masterpiece. It was so beautiful.
So my thoughts today went something like this.
It's cold. It's so cold, It is so very, very cold.
It's so early.
I am so sore. My toe hurts. My big toe on my left foot. The nail hurts. I don't want to run.
The weather here is like an abusive relationship. It starts of beautifully, perfect, full off promise. Only to abuse you, beat you up, be full of empty promises. Then just when you want to end the relationship. Newfoundland apologizes and seduces you back in. Full of wonder and promises. It is a cyclical. When it's good, it's really good. When it's bad, it's really bad.
Today was the day where you are so taken by her beauty you can forgive the mild flaws, and occasional abuse. You can make excuses for it. Only to realize her flaws are destroying your love of her. Then your are once again lost in her beauty. She is seductive.
So many emotions today. It was one of those runs where you want to push yourself. You just feel the run. The circumstances are right. I can run forever. I can loose myself in the motion and just push.
Today was amazing. The run was amazing. The scenery was amazing. The pain was amazing. The people driving past us were amazing. It was a perfect day. I ran farther than I thought I would.
That is what I did today. What did you do?
So my thoughts today went something like this.
It's cold. It's so cold, It is so very, very cold.
It's so early.
I am so sore. My toe hurts. My big toe on my left foot. The nail hurts. I don't want to run.
The weather here is like an abusive relationship. It starts of beautifully, perfect, full off promise. Only to abuse you, beat you up, be full of empty promises. Then just when you want to end the relationship. Newfoundland apologizes and seduces you back in. Full of wonder and promises. It is a cyclical. When it's good, it's really good. When it's bad, it's really bad.
Today was the day where you are so taken by her beauty you can forgive the mild flaws, and occasional abuse. You can make excuses for it. Only to realize her flaws are destroying your love of her. Then your are once again lost in her beauty. She is seductive.
So many emotions today. It was one of those runs where you want to push yourself. You just feel the run. The circumstances are right. I can run forever. I can loose myself in the motion and just push.
Today was amazing. The run was amazing. The scenery was amazing. The pain was amazing. The people driving past us were amazing. It was a perfect day. I ran farther than I thought I would.
That is what I did today. What did you do?
Friday, April 15, 2011
From Peyton Hotel to Grand Falls-Windsor by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Peyton Hotel to Grand Falls-Windsor by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Today's run was a little difficult. I am definatley sick. I am definatley tired. I am definatley not even close to home. I had an important call last night at 10:30 that kept me up. I was able to get back to sleep about 11:00 or so.
This morning run was supposed to start at 8:00am. Mom and Dad were up. I was not. However we had local RCMP Constable Doug Mesher show up all excited to head out. I was not getting out of bed!!
He was great and he drove my parents to a local car shop to get the jeep worked on. He came back at 9:00 and I was good to go.
We jogged to the local RCMP Detachment
We got to hang out in there little kitchen and lounge area and we just hung out. Everyone one just chilling and having a great time. I was trying to delay run start as long as possible. I was not feeling the run today.
However Melissa was on to me. After a generous donation I was on my way with Constable Mesher.
The Constable had to return to work. So he jumped in the RCMP Car that was escorting us. I continued on my run and we hit this.
We called the run short as I had a school presentation to do. We headed to a local school and did a presentation on the importance of helmets. A little older school so I got to talk about the importance of you brain for video game skills!! This always seems to get the point the across. When you can't remember what the buttons do, you can't play the game. So put on a helmet!!
We then had an impromptu speech at the hotel we are staying at. There was a conference of X-Ray Technicians and I did a quick drop in to talk about my injury, the surgery I had, and the importance of the all the tests and procedures I had. I then told them about the time I had a CT Scan about a year after my surgery. So the technician had no idea I had a brain injury as my hair covered the scar. As I am sitting on the machine. I can here the technician calling for a Dr. to interpret why her images are, well lets just say "interesting"
We had the Mayors assistant declare this run to remember day in Grand Falls - Windsor. He is also the local radio host and did an interview.
So all in all a very exciting day.
Tomorrow is nothing but running!!
Today's run was a little difficult. I am definatley sick. I am definatley tired. I am definatley not even close to home. I had an important call last night at 10:30 that kept me up. I was able to get back to sleep about 11:00 or so.
This morning run was supposed to start at 8:00am. Mom and Dad were up. I was not. However we had local RCMP Constable Doug Mesher show up all excited to head out. I was not getting out of bed!!
He was great and he drove my parents to a local car shop to get the jeep worked on. He came back at 9:00 and I was good to go.
We jogged to the local RCMP Detachment
We got to hang out in there little kitchen and lounge area and we just hung out. Everyone one just chilling and having a great time. I was trying to delay run start as long as possible. I was not feeling the run today.
The Constable had to return to work. So he jumped in the RCMP Car that was escorting us. I continued on my run and we hit this.
We called the run short as I had a school presentation to do. We headed to a local school and did a presentation on the importance of helmets. A little older school so I got to talk about the importance of you brain for video game skills!! This always seems to get the point the across. When you can't remember what the buttons do, you can't play the game. So put on a helmet!!
We then had an impromptu speech at the hotel we are staying at. There was a conference of X-Ray Technicians and I did a quick drop in to talk about my injury, the surgery I had, and the importance of the all the tests and procedures I had. I then told them about the time I had a CT Scan about a year after my surgery. So the technician had no idea I had a brain injury as my hair covered the scar. As I am sitting on the machine. I can here the technician calling for a Dr. to interpret why her images are, well lets just say "interesting"
We had the Mayors assistant declare this run to remember day in Grand Falls - Windsor. He is also the local radio host and did an interview.
So all in all a very exciting day.
Tomorrow is nothing but running!!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Norris Arm to Grand Falls Windso by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Norris Arm to Grand Falls Windso by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
I did not want to run today. I woke up and just did not want to move. I have a cold, my body hurts, the weather is cold, wet, windy. I am dreading the hills.
We head out to run start. I have a rule for the day's that I don't want to run. I will run for 5 minutes. If at the end of the five miles I still really don't want to run. I will call it a day.
I called it a day at every tree, street sign, car that passes, hill, or burst of weather. I just kept saying five more minutes, stop at the next tree, no the next tree.
I was pretty close to calling it a day. Melissa had pulled in the Run to Remember car. I took a break and had some food. I got out again and just ran from one lamp post to the next.
Then I was surprised with an RCMP Constable Doug Mesher who showed up to run with me. What a fantastic group of officers here. We had a great chat, a really great guy. He is training for another one of his Olympic distance triathlons and wanted to run 10kl with me.
I was so sore and so tired, however once we got moving and chatting it was all good.
Made it back to the Motel and had a shower!! Upload to blog, enter run data, eat and pass out. Do it all again tomorrow.
I did not want to run today. I woke up and just did not want to move. I have a cold, my body hurts, the weather is cold, wet, windy. I am dreading the hills.
We head out to run start. I have a rule for the day's that I don't want to run. I will run for 5 minutes. If at the end of the five miles I still really don't want to run. I will call it a day.
I called it a day at every tree, street sign, car that passes, hill, or burst of weather. I just kept saying five more minutes, stop at the next tree, no the next tree.
I was pretty close to calling it a day. Melissa had pulled in the Run to Remember car. I took a break and had some food. I got out again and just ran from one lamp post to the next.
I was so sore and so tired, however once we got moving and chatting it was all good.
Made it back to the Motel and had a shower!! Upload to blog, enter run data, eat and pass out. Do it all again tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
A run through Glenwood to Norris Arm by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
A run through Glenwood to Norris Arm by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
we met Coralee today.
She was fantastic and made a special stop to make a donation to Braintrust and the runtoremember. She saw us back in St. Johns and wanted to make sure she stopped.
So thank you so much Coralee. It made my day. It also lets me stop running ;')
The Motorhome got some water from the Fire Department in Gander. They were quite taken with vehicle apparently. My Dad liked looking at the new Fire Station, and all the cool gear they had.
They managed to find a place to dump the tanks. This is a larger problem in Newfoundland that we thought because of the time of year. Not allot of campgrounds are open.
We are now sitting in the parking lot of a hotel/motel called Payton. They have been awesome. Tomorrow is another long run day.
I just hope it's less windy but I don't think that is going to happen!!
I am now going to stretch, and sleep!! once I get all my gear prepped for tomorrow.
Wind warnings and cold but sunny was the start of the day. Today was a straight run day. Judy, Gerry and were all up early. We headed to run start (where I left of yesterday) and I started running.
She was fantastic and made a special stop to make a donation to Braintrust and the runtoremember. She saw us back in St. Johns and wanted to make sure she stopped.
So thank you so much Coralee. It made my day. It also lets me stop running ;')
The Motorhome got some water from the Fire Department in Gander. They were quite taken with vehicle apparently. My Dad liked looking at the new Fire Station, and all the cool gear they had.
They managed to find a place to dump the tanks. This is a larger problem in Newfoundland that we thought because of the time of year. Not allot of campgrounds are open.
We are now sitting in the parking lot of a hotel/motel called Payton. They have been awesome. Tomorrow is another long run day.
I just hope it's less windy but I don't think that is going to happen!!
I am now going to stretch, and sleep!! once I get all my gear prepped for tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Just outside Benton and almost to Appleton by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Just outside Benton and almost to Appleton by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Today reminded me of a run in BC. The weather was above frozen ;') the wind was tolerable, and the rain was just like BC.
I had a great surprise by the RCMP. Cst John Fabian, Sheldon J Walsh, and Cst Jerry Goudie who were the traffic services drove with us through Gander.
This helped me pick up my pace as I had a cop car in front and a cop car behind me. I had to represent ;')
Great guys and that made think back to my injury (now I don't remember this but from what I have been told) it was our first responders who saved my life. The Fire Department were the first on the scene, followed by the police and ambulance. They came so fast that day. If it was not for these First Responders I would not be here, I would not be running, I would not be able to reach out.
So a very special thank you to all of you who risk your life's, who put others first, who are often forgotten and only remembered when needed. Thank you. You matter, what you do matters, and you keep us all alive, save, so that we can get up again tomorrow.
Today reminded me of a run in BC. The weather was above frozen ;') the wind was tolerable, and the rain was just like BC.
This helped me pick up my pace as I had a cop car in front and a cop car behind me. I had to represent ;')
Great guys and that made think back to my injury (now I don't remember this but from what I have been told) it was our first responders who saved my life. The Fire Department were the first on the scene, followed by the police and ambulance. They came so fast that day. If it was not for these First Responders I would not be here, I would not be running, I would not be able to reach out.
So a very special thank you to all of you who risk your life's, who put others first, who are often forgotten and only remembered when needed. Thank you. You matter, what you do matters, and you keep us all alive, save, so that we can get up again tomorrow.
Monday, April 11, 2011
From Gambo to Gander by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
From Gambo to Gander by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
I woke up so tired this morning. I did not sleep well. The first week has gone by so fast, it's been very fast. We have moved the motorhome to a campground. The campground is actually closed at this time of year, but the owners have allowed us to stay there. We have some small electrical current, but are still without water, a dump station, or proper plug ins.
I ran for about 2:30 to 3 hours this morning. We were up very early and I got in a good distance. We came back to the motorhome and I had time to change into something that would scare the kids at Helen Tulk Elementary. The Mayor was there and was talking about his own accident on a motorbike a few years ago.
The kids are where all the excitement was. While they may not understand the technical issues of "short term memory loss" or "Aphasia" they do understand it when I tell them that I suck at video games because I forget what button is shoot, or what I am doing and that by the time I look at the instructions I have been killed probably by them ;')
We talked about the importance of helmets and protecting there heads. That a concussion is a brain injury and we left some information to help the teachers recognize signs of brain damage in there students.
The kids are the best part of the run so far. They ask the best questions, it does usually turn to tips on how to play Black Op's but hey there kids!!
Tomorrow is a long run day. I am hoping to cover a greater distance. Still getting into the grove of things and working out an easy to follow agenda that works well for all involved.
Protect your head!!
Dave
Sunday, April 10, 2011
We have internet!!
I have been off the grid for a couple of day as we do not have internet in this part of Newfoundland. So I am connecting to the internet in a hotel. I forgot to bring my Garmin for my run data so I apologize for that.
I am still not up to my full marathon distance. This has been a little frustrating. Upon discussing this issue with the Run To Remember coordinator (Melissa) we thinks it's a couple of reasons. 1) the change in location and getting used to a new time zone. 2) for me it's the wind. I have trained for this back home in Vancouver. We get all sorts of weather in Vancouver. However I have never run in this cold, windy, and hilly of an area.
Yesterday and today were really good days. The weather was about 0 and for the most part the wind was behind me. Yesterday when running I was making really good time, however there some chaffing issues. So today I started off strong but was fighting the wind in the morning. Then after the first 2 hour run I started off and had the wind at my back. I was back to my training pace. It's really hard to run uphill with wind fighting you. It gives a whole new meaning to "wind at my back".
Tomorrow should be four hours of straight running. Then I get to talk to some kids at a school.
Still getting lot's of honks on the road and I was stopped by some parents so there child could donate some money. I have his picture and name but don't have it with me right now. I will update either later tonight or after tomorrow. I just wanted to connect and let the world now we are still running and I am still here.
The motor home has had some issues and because of the time of year there are no campgrounds open. We are currently staying in Wall Marts and running on batteries. It's also been really cold. So with the technical problems of the motor home, no hookups, and no cell phone or internet. It's been weird. However there are lot's of pics that I will upload when we are back on track.
I am still not up to my full marathon distance. This has been a little frustrating. Upon discussing this issue with the Run To Remember coordinator (Melissa) we thinks it's a couple of reasons. 1) the change in location and getting used to a new time zone. 2) for me it's the wind. I have trained for this back home in Vancouver. We get all sorts of weather in Vancouver. However I have never run in this cold, windy, and hilly of an area.
Yesterday and today were really good days. The weather was about 0 and for the most part the wind was behind me. Yesterday when running I was making really good time, however there some chaffing issues. So today I started off strong but was fighting the wind in the morning. Then after the first 2 hour run I started off and had the wind at my back. I was back to my training pace. It's really hard to run uphill with wind fighting you. It gives a whole new meaning to "wind at my back".
Tomorrow should be four hours of straight running. Then I get to talk to some kids at a school.
Still getting lot's of honks on the road and I was stopped by some parents so there child could donate some money. I have his picture and name but don't have it with me right now. I will update either later tonight or after tomorrow. I just wanted to connect and let the world now we are still running and I am still here.
The motor home has had some issues and because of the time of year there are no campgrounds open. We are currently staying in Wall Marts and running on batteries. It's also been really cold. So with the technical problems of the motor home, no hookups, and no cell phone or internet. It's been weird. However there are lot's of pics that I will upload when we are back on track.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Balbo Elementary and the Mountain Man
Untitled by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details (run 1)
Stopped at Balbo Elementary and talked to the kids in grade 7 and 8. Then I continued with the run.
Run #2 by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Picture of the day: Upon describing the name of the man who came and met me on the highway at the High School. I was advised that his name is Boonie. If I have this wrong I apologize
So there I am on the first part of my run. I am probably 5 kl or so. This guy comes running out and is waving at me. He hands me $10.00 and says he read about me in the paper. This was just a totally awesome thing, and it made my day.
The kids at the school were so awesome. This was a slightly older group and they asked some really great questions. Like "will you forget your kids when you have them" This to me is a very intelligent question as the understanding of what short term memory is and the issues that I face. My wife and I have discussed these kinds of questions. The answer is, "I don't know". My memory seems to work well with repetition, however if I am not constantly reminding myself, or constantly repeating the same thing. I loose it. I recall most things before my injury. However creating new memories is a challenge. If I am unable to link a new memory to some of my old memories I have a harder time retaining it.
I also want people to know that they can do anything they want. It took a brain injury for me to realize this. I hope others don't need such a dramatic event to reach there potential. For me it's not so much what I do, it's what all these people are doing around me. I am just have to run.
Stopped at Balbo Elementary and talked to the kids in grade 7 and 8. Then I continued with the run.
Run #2 by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Picture of the day: Upon describing the name of the man who came and met me on the highway at the High School. I was advised that his name is Boonie. If I have this wrong I apologize
So there I am on the first part of my run. I am probably 5 kl or so. This guy comes running out and is waving at me. He hands me $10.00 and says he read about me in the paper. This was just a totally awesome thing, and it made my day.
The kids at the school were so awesome. This was a slightly older group and they asked some really great questions. Like "will you forget your kids when you have them" This to me is a very intelligent question as the understanding of what short term memory is and the issues that I face. My wife and I have discussed these kinds of questions. The answer is, "I don't know". My memory seems to work well with repetition, however if I am not constantly reminding myself, or constantly repeating the same thing. I loose it. I recall most things before my injury. However creating new memories is a challenge. If I am unable to link a new memory to some of my old memories I have a harder time retaining it.
I also want people to know that they can do anything they want. It took a brain injury for me to realize this. I hope others don't need such a dramatic event to reach there potential. For me it's not so much what I do, it's what all these people are doing around me. I am just have to run.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Clarenville
Today was a long run. My run information is in another post.
Weather: About -2 to +2 Sunny. Periods of snow, and clouds but quickly went away. Wind was at my back
Song of the day: The sounds of Newfoundland. My headset was MIA today. However that was perfect because I got to hear the sounds of nature, and of course the traffic
Today the Run To Remember team was in the grove. We were up early, headed to yesterday's run stop and got'r going.
I am used to running for longer and I am aware my distances need to improve. Between the weather, the hills, and other unforeseen circumstances, I am trying my best.
However today was a fantastic day
Weather: About -2 to +2 Sunny. Periods of snow, and clouds but quickly went away. Wind was at my back
Song of the day: The sounds of Newfoundland. My headset was MIA today. However that was perfect because I got to hear the sounds of nature, and of course the traffic
Picture of the day:
Today the Run To Remember team was in the grove. We were up early, headed to yesterday's run stop and got'r going.
I am used to running for longer and I am aware my distances need to improve. Between the weather, the hills, and other unforeseen circumstances, I am trying my best.
However today was a fantastic day
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Untitled by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Untitled by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Todays run was so windy and cold and zero visibility. Check out some of the video
Todays run was so windy and cold and zero visibility. Check out some of the video
So last night we were hit by some super weather storm. It was pushing the motorhome around like we were a boat at sea.
We were up early after a very cold and windy night. We made it out to run start and the visibility was about 20meters. Now that 20 meters for me running is ok, however when you are running on the highway in winds peeking at more than 50 kl an hour, and being passed by big rigs doing 120kl an hour. Well let's just say that if I can't see them coming, they sure can't see me.
The wind was so strong it was pushing me around. When I lifted one foot up in the air it would blow right into the foot I had in the ground. Then when a big truck went by it would create a vacuum that would suck me into the traffic. So we thought it would be better to stop. I am trying to upload a video but I am a very patchy internet connection.
After stopping the run after about 6kl. We then went to a school and did another talk with the kids. Once again the school was so awesome. Great staff, great Principle and I got one of the best questions ever from a girl in about grade 5. She asked "do you like the brain you have now, versus the brain you had before"?
This reminded me of some discussions I have had in the past. The answer is "I don't know". I do more since my injury. I have run a marathon, an Ironman, The Goofy Challenge, I have gotten married and probably done more since my injury than I did before. I am also more aware of others, and more aware of the challenges that all people face. So it's a hard question to ask.
I do believe that everything happens for a reason. Once I got over the "poor me" stage. You know the "why me, what did I do, I don't deserve this, life is unfair" stuff. I decided to not focus on what I had, and what I have. Instead of what I can't do. What I can do.
I mean I am running across the country. This is a dream come true. I get to see this incredible country from a very personal point of view and I get to meet all these fantastic people. If this helps one person not have a head injury. I am happy.
Of course we still need to pay for gas, lodging, food, and all the other stuff. To be honest, this is truly a gift I have been given. It's hard to feel anything buy amazement.
Thanks Newfoundland. You are amazing.
Dave
I will update this when I have a better internet connection. I have been trying to upload a video for over an hour and it's time to stretch.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
10kl run and then speech by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
10kl run and then speech by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Song of the day was Eminem "Not Afraid".
Road siting of the day was once again the numerous amounts of Tim Horton's coffee cups.
So the run was a little short but it felt fantastic. I had a good pace and the wind was at my back. It was very hilly but felt great. Melissa met up with us and then drove me the school for a presentation to the kids on why it's important to protect your head. We drove for just over an hour, I think, then realized it was the wrong school. With a few "creative" words on the phone we were then on our way to the right school. We a great group of kids at Holy Family School in Chapel Arm. The kids were so great, and so were the teachers. We really hit home the importance of protecting your head and opened the door up for questions.
It was amazing that in even a small school in a small town in just one province of Canada we met about 20 kids that had someone in there lives that had hurt there heads. So I am glad we were able to get the message out.
Song of the day was Eminem "Not Afraid".
Road siting of the day was once again the numerous amounts of Tim Horton's coffee cups.
Picture of the day!!
Monday, April 4, 2011
Run part 1 by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Run part 1
Run Part 2
Long day. Been super busy.
I am now in the Motorhome and things should start getting a little more habitual. It's been a crazy couple of days and I am looking forward to not eating in restaurants and having some good old home made food. My diet has been all rescued.
The weather today was very strange. At some points snowing, then raining, then some hale, and then for the most part so sunny. It is such an amazing province.
Oddest thing seen today. Some animal corpse on the side of the road. That and a crazy amount of Tim Horton's cups. Every ten steps (not much else to do when your running but to count steps) there was a Tim Horton's cup. Every 14 steps it was a Cores light bottle, and for some reason lot's of tires. So many tires.
The kids at the school were amazing.
People pull over and make a donation. This freaks out the support team because it's on the highway!! All and all it was a good day.
Did my stretches and some body rolling. Feeling a little sore but nothing I can't manage. No blisters witch is a plus. So I uploading everything from the motorohome and tomorrow we start again!!
It's time to sleep!!
Run Part 2
Long day. Been super busy.
I am now in the Motorhome and things should start getting a little more habitual. It's been a crazy couple of days and I am looking forward to not eating in restaurants and having some good old home made food. My diet has been all rescued.
The weather today was very strange. At some points snowing, then raining, then some hale, and then for the most part so sunny. It is such an amazing province.
Oddest thing seen today. Some animal corpse on the side of the road. That and a crazy amount of Tim Horton's cups. Every ten steps (not much else to do when your running but to count steps) there was a Tim Horton's cup. Every 14 steps it was a Cores light bottle, and for some reason lot's of tires. So many tires.
The kids at the school were amazing.
People pull over and make a donation. This freaks out the support team because it's on the highway!! All and all it was a good day.
Did my stretches and some body rolling. Feeling a little sore but nothing I can't manage. No blisters witch is a plus. So I uploading everything from the motorohome and tomorrow we start again!!
It's time to sleep!!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Sundays Run
First half of run. by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Today's run was much better than yesterday. We are starting the day a little later to let the sun come up and make it a little safer. The weather moved around from -2 to 1 for most of the day. There was a very short hale storm and a couple drops in temp as I changed in my elevation. I think my max elevation was 240 meters or close to that.
Song of the day was: Southern Shore Queen by the Punters
Picture of the day
Picture of the day
Tonight is the last night at the motel. Tomorrow we start living in the Motorhome. We also say goodbye to one of our team. Magda is heading back to BC and back to BrainTrust Canada head office.
Body is feeling pretty good. I know I ran, but I am looking forward to stretching and chilling in my last night with a bathtub
Tomorrow is looking like -2 to -4 with wind and sun!!
I miss you Mandy!!
Body is feeling pretty good. I know I ran, but I am looking forward to stretching and chilling in my last night with a bathtub
Tomorrow is looking like -2 to -4 with wind and sun!!
I miss you Mandy!!
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Cold, wet, windy and dangerous by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Cold, wet, windy and dangerous by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Today was a little crazy, huge winds up over 40kl an hour. Road plows had blocked the side of the highway where I run with snow. This forced me to run on the actual highway. Limited visibility and a close call with a big rig. It was time to call it a day. Will see what it looks like later, or tomorrow.
Can't do anything about the weather
Today was a little crazy, huge winds up over 40kl an hour. Road plows had blocked the side of the highway where I run with snow. This forced me to run on the actual highway. Limited visibility and a close call with a big rig. It was time to call it a day. Will see what it looks like later, or tomorrow.
Can't do anything about the weather
Friday, April 1, 2011
First day of Running. by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
First day of Running. by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
2nd half of run 2nd half of Run by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Today was the first run of the event! I was up at 5am, and on route to Harbourside Park just before 6am. At the park Steve Belanger from BDO and Jeanette Holman-Price were both there in the very early and chilly morning to see me off on my first marathon
When we arrived in the park I had an interview with CBC Radio News 640. It was great to chat about the run, and then we did a quick TV spot as well. Who knows if it’ll air but the radio interview was live and we have heard it another few times during the morning news and on traffic updates when I was actually on the highway.
The run was no fuss and actually kind of boring. The only real oddity was discovering that you know it’s cold when your water bottle is freezing. Melissa, Magda and Mandy were riding in the Run to Remember Honda in front of me with a very fashionable flashing yellow light on the roof of her car. Behind me was a volunteer St. John’s City Police car. Between the two of the cars I was safely sandwiched during my run.
During the run there was a lot of honking, which I took as being of a positive, supportive nature versus the “you’re going too slow during rush hour” type of message. In fact, a car with Soccertots decal saddled right up next to Melissa, who was very unnerving and prompted her to yell about my safety, but they did so just to donate some money! It was very sweet but very dangerous. Thank you!
Now it’s clear as to why they call Newfoundland “The Rock”, it’s because the people here ROCK!
After a half marathon distance the ladies in front of me pulled me to a halt and loaded me in the car. I thought I was just resting a moment but it turned out I had another radio interview and speaking engagement at a local school. So, we headed back to the hotel to de-stink.
A very special thanks to the St. John’s City Police Department and Constable James Cadigan for being an awesome escort! The blaring radio as entertainment was greatly appreciated!
On our way to Larkhall Academy we had a radio interview with Kelowna’s AM 1150. Phil was wonderful and we had a lovely chat for his early morning show. Then we had a chat at the school with a group of 20-30 kids. It was a really energetic chat. I was able to take a lot of interesting and creative questions. The kids were animated and just a lot of fun to be around. They were so welcoming and willing to hear my story and message of brain injury prevention. Thank you Larkhall Academy for the welcome, the patience and the generous donation that was raised by the students!
Thank you Emily for presenting me with the mug of delicious goodies!
Then we had a short break for lunch and digestion, which was followed by another half marathon to finish up my marathon distance for the day.
Back on the Transcanada Highway, Melissa and Mandy led the way with my parents, Gerry and Judy behind me in the other Run to Remember mobile. It was awesome to have my parents on the road with me for the first time!
At 2:39pm a vehicle pulled over in front of us and Mildred Martin from Little Heart’s Ease community ran towards us to give us a donation and share her story about her nephew’s cerebral hemorrhage. THANK YOU MILDRED! The support was a great boost to get me through the rest of my distance.
2nd half of run 2nd half of Run by temporallobe at Garmin Connect - Details
Today was the first run of the event! I was up at 5am, and on route to Harbourside Park just before 6am. At the park Steve Belanger from BDO and Jeanette Holman-Price were both there in the very early and chilly morning to see me off on my first marathon
When we arrived in the park I had an interview with CBC Radio News 640. It was great to chat about the run, and then we did a quick TV spot as well. Who knows if it’ll air but the radio interview was live and we have heard it another few times during the morning news and on traffic updates when I was actually on the highway.
The run was no fuss and actually kind of boring. The only real oddity was discovering that you know it’s cold when your water bottle is freezing. Melissa, Magda and Mandy were riding in the Run to Remember Honda in front of me with a very fashionable flashing yellow light on the roof of her car. Behind me was a volunteer St. John’s City Police car. Between the two of the cars I was safely sandwiched during my run.
During the run there was a lot of honking, which I took as being of a positive, supportive nature versus the “you’re going too slow during rush hour” type of message. In fact, a car with Soccertots decal saddled right up next to Melissa, who was very unnerving and prompted her to yell about my safety, but they did so just to donate some money! It was very sweet but very dangerous. Thank you!
Now it’s clear as to why they call Newfoundland “The Rock”, it’s because the people here ROCK!
After a half marathon distance the ladies in front of me pulled me to a halt and loaded me in the car. I thought I was just resting a moment but it turned out I had another radio interview and speaking engagement at a local school. So, we headed back to the hotel to de-stink.
A very special thanks to the St. John’s City Police Department and Constable James Cadigan for being an awesome escort! The blaring radio as entertainment was greatly appreciated!
On our way to Larkhall Academy we had a radio interview with Kelowna’s AM 1150. Phil was wonderful and we had a lovely chat for his early morning show. Then we had a chat at the school with a group of 20-30 kids. It was a really energetic chat. I was able to take a lot of interesting and creative questions. The kids were animated and just a lot of fun to be around. They were so welcoming and willing to hear my story and message of brain injury prevention. Thank you Larkhall Academy for the welcome, the patience and the generous donation that was raised by the students!
Thank you Emily for presenting me with the mug of delicious goodies!
Then we had a short break for lunch and digestion, which was followed by another half marathon to finish up my marathon distance for the day.
Back on the Transcanada Highway, Melissa and Mandy led the way with my parents, Gerry and Judy behind me in the other Run to Remember mobile. It was awesome to have my parents on the road with me for the first time!
At 2:39pm a vehicle pulled over in front of us and Mildred Martin from Little Heart’s Ease community ran towards us to give us a donation and share her story about her nephew’s cerebral hemorrhage. THANK YOU MILDRED! The support was a great boost to get me through the rest of my distance.
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