There was an inspiration dinner the night before the race. It was a Team in Training event and it was the first time I realized the magnitude of our group. There were 5,000 walkers / runners there, from across the United States and Canada. We had all done something to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. And for that, the LLS is grateful. I didn't fully realize that until I walked into the convention center that Saturday night:
There were a lot of numbers, statistics, tips, and stories dished out at the dinner. I came away thinking we had raised a lot of money, and that a lot of people had significantly better fund raising strategies than mine. I remember thinking we had made the world a better place for people affected by blood cancers, and that our reward was running a good 13.1 or 26.2 mile race. I remember being confused.
I went home that night and did my homework. I put my name on my shirt, so people would be able to cheer for me. I expected a few cheers, even though seeing my written name confuses most people. I've been called "Day-knee," "Diane" and "Dah-nye-ah." But I figured I had to try. I could have named myself "Dani," but pride refused. I just printed my given nickname and hoped for the best.
Other homework included attaching my bib, packing my utility belt, and laying out everything I planned to bring or wear. They say there shouldn't be any changes the morning of the race and I've always been one to do what I'm told. So I got my race gear ready from head to toe. I put it all together, checked it, (rechecked it) and went to bed. As I had no idea what to expect, it was easy to not think about the race and fall asleep.
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