4 YEARS POST HYSTERECTOMY AND RUNNING

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Hysterectomy Recovery For Runners: the phrase that is most searched that reaches my blog.  I thought I'd take the time to complete a follow up on my hysterectomy related to running.

It’s been 4 years since my radical complete hysterectomy. Time has really moved along!  I had it all removed vaginally: the  uterus, the fallopian tubes, the ovaries, the cervix. I had surgery at Mayo in Rochester after my mother, grandmother and aunts were diagnosed with ovarian cancer and cervical cancer.  I had been having a vaginal ultrasound and CA125 (blood test) every 6 months since my Mother’s diagnosis, 9  years ago. Once the tumors on my ovaries began to grow and my CA125 began to increase, it was time to go under the knife.

First of all, there is SO MUCH MISINFORMATION regarding running and hysterectomy!  Who writes that shit? I was truly scared that I wouldn’t run again after all of the garbage I read. I even read from multiple sources that women NEED high levels of estrogen to run. Why? How? What? Ridiculous!

After I had decided to have the hysterectomy I began to look up articles relating to women, hysterectomy and ultra running. There isn’t much out there. I found a site called Hystersisters that had a few running articles available from women but most were dismal, depressing and had the ‘why me’ syndrome. Give me a break.

(if you click on  Hysterectomy  on the left bar you will find all of my hysterectomy related posts)

So, yes, I do run. I run many miles. I love running now just as much as I did prior to hysterectomy.  If you are here researching running and hysterectomy let me tell you that YOU WILL RUN again!  Do not fear that you will have to sit on the couch and become inactive other than the bon bons to the mouth syndrome. Not so. There are changes, however.

I am 50 now. I had my surgery at 46. I hadn’t even started menopause and I believe that banging full force into menopause via hysterectomy is more difficult on one that mellowing up to it…naturally experiencing  a reduction of hormones. I began hot flashes while in the hospital, the day after the surgery. They are still constant and very intense but hey, I can live with them. I no longer change my sheets during the middle of the night..I just go back to sleep in a pile of wet sheets. I became very tired of changing sheets every night. Forget it!

Due to the constant hot flashes I now keep the house at 67F. I’m never cold. I used to keep the house at 72F. No thanks! 

At work I always froze. FROZE!  I wore multiple layers and never removed them. I wore lots of fleece. Now I wear 2 layers and always remove one during the day.

I run with many zippers! I sometimes feel like a hot sausage running down the trail. Zippers allow me to let the steam escape and cool down. Whew! Then I get cold and zip back up.

After the hysterectomy I incurred injury. I experienced a double-whammy. While recovering from hysterectomy I laid upon the couch, looking at my iPhone and iPad, I watched TV with my neck to my chin..I guess. Apparently that movement caused stress upon my spine. I didn’t know it until July, but I herniated two discs in my upper spine-neck at this time.  Painful as hell.

(if you click on herniated discs on the left you will see my posts relating to the discs)

I began to walk slowly in the week  following surgery and by week  two I was walking 4-5 miles each day. Really!

At 6 weeks my surgeon released my restrictions and told me to run freely!  I did!  I was feeling fabulous and began to train for a March half marathon. It went great-other than a bit of dizziness. 

click on Get Luck Half Marathon for the report

After a few months I was feeling a numbness in my right arm. I thought it was due to reaching for the phone at work but eventually was in so much fricken pain I couldn’t run. That is when I learned I had herniated discs. Ugh!

That recovery sucked big time – 4 months or so, but eventually all was well in my world and I was running hundreds again and completely forgot about the herniated discs that I had.

Fast forward a few years and I roll my ankle at Eugene Curnow Trail Marathon. Fractured Ankle.  Superior 100 a few months later. Broken Ankle.Same Ankle. I didn't let it heal.

While recovering from the broken ankle I became depressed.  My mom had passed away from ovarian cancer, my nest was going to become empty soon as Troy would be leaving for college, I was gaining weight with the inactivity. I went to my doctor who I've had since 1991 and decided to go on an antidepressant. They help.

After the ankle healed I went off the antidepressant and continued with my running goals. I thoroughly enjoyed last year. I had a great year. Ran a few marathons, 50Ks, 50 milers and two hundreds. Love that. The depression lifted.

Then Morton’s Neuroma  reared its ugly head.  I found myself depressed, went back on the anti depressant and am now healing. Thank goodness! Now, men have broken ankles and neuroma and this probably isn’t all due to hysterectomy. It’s just ironic that I have rolled ankles before but never broke one!  I had never worn Hokas with a roll though, before, either.  These injuries are probably due to overuse, age, hysterectomy, a bit of everything. 

But why aren't there many women in their 50s and 60s running 100s? That's my big question. I don't understand. In our 50s our children are grown and gone..I would think we have more time to spend to train and travel. Wouldn't it be a great time to run ultras?

After receiving the blood work, blood pressure, cholesterol counts and scale weight at the clinic I had a long conversation with my awesome doctor and we knew what I needed to do to change those results. We went through all of my data. We spoke of what is different now from when I had my healthiest test results. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, cancer..it all runs rampant in my family. My numbers were best while I was eating a vegan diet 2008-2010. Interestingly enough I ran all my PRS from 50K to 100 mile during that time.

(If you click vegan on the left bar you’ll see the related posts)

(if you click Leanhorse you will see the vegan training/outcome)

Just  know, you will run again after hysterectomy. It doesn’t have to have any bearing upon your running at all. Don’t use it as a reason NOT to have hysterectomy. Hysterectomy will affect other areas of your life- you may experience some depression, some weight gain, some injuries, some hot flashes, some memory loss..or you may not..but it doesn’t have to change anything  about your running! You will run again!

If you have ANY questions relating to running and hysterectomy or anything else, please ask! Drop me a comment, let me know how you are dealing with hysterectomy and running or what your fears may be.

The Zumbro 50 Mile Midnight Trail Run: Euphoria

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Yes. Total Euphoria and Bliss.

I don’t know where to begin. I guess I’ll begin  a few weeks out from Zumbro. I had been healing well, running mostly pavement because my beloved trail was under 4’ of snow and ice. Trail made my almost healed ankle feel loose and painful.  I hoped for the best.

A few of my worries:  The midnight start was a bit of a concern as I knew this meant I’d be up for hours.  I am not a napper. I would awake at 5 AM on Friday, run a few errands, arrive to Zumbro and hang out until the midnight start. I ended up  awake for 41 hours. I wasn’t tired! On the other hand, the midnight start was perfect for my next goal: Savage 100Mile Trail Run.

I knew I’d have a slow first 6 hours in the dark. I have horrible night vision so I had a headlamp and handheld flashlight to light my way. I haven’t worn a headlamp since I herniated my discs. The last time I tried my spine became very fatigued and pained. Some time has passed so I was again hoping for the best.  I step gingerly during the dark hours, dodging rocks, roots and mud, trying to navigate foot placement.

I figured with a slow first 6 hours I would be stiff by the time daylight approached, and possibly fatigued. Maybe I worried too much about that which I can’t control.

My goal was to finish, without a time goal. I figured 15 hours was a reasonable amount of time. 5 hours a loop. 5 for loop 1, during the dark, 5 for loop 2 half dark and then tired and 5 for the final exhausting loop. This was going to be a good long run for the Savage 100.

While packing up on Friday I couldn’t find my ugly grey Nathan vest anywhere. I don’t like bladders-I over drink. I like using handhelds so I can track what I drink per hour -and a light vest with pockets to stash my gels. I probably tossed it after the grossness that permeated it while running at Superior Sawtooth 100 in September.

On the way to Zumbro I swung into TCRunning Company in Maple Grove. I knew that there was a nice colorful Ultimate Direction vest with my name on it! I made my purchase and ventured on to Zumbro.

It was pretty quiet when I arrived to the Zumbro River Bottoms. It was warm, in the 60s and the snow – blizzard – that we had the previous week was all gone!  Woohoo!

The 100 milers began at 8 AM Friday, there were 60 of them out on the course. The course is a 17 mile loop full of steep climbs, lots of mud and  rock. It’s challenging.

I milled about the check in, connecting with awesome friends. It was a party atmosphere and I was ready to get my party on.

At 1130 PM I took inventory of what I needed to bring with me and began to pack up. I attached my iPod to my nifty new Ultimate Direction vest, I placed 4 gels into each pocket-my plan was to eat a gel every 30 minutes, drink water and do Scaps for electrolytes. Lucky for me HammerNutrition was a sponsor so I would find gels at each aid station. I placed 7 AA batteries in a pocket for my lights-they would dim in the cold night and need replacement battery-I had some wipes for cleanup in another pocket.  I lubed my feet, my armpits, my waist, my bra line. Affixed my gaitors and went back and forth wondering if I should wear shorts or pants. I decided on a light weight pair of pants, long sleeve shirt and windbreaker. Rain was forecast in a few hours. I had shorts, socks and a sleeveless top unpacked and ready to reach for upon my next loop. I’d be back in 17 miles.

1150 PM I heard John on the loudspeaker rounding up the 50 milers. I sucked down a gel and removed myself from my car.

I lined up in the back of the pack. This was going to be a long training run for the Savage 100 Mile Trail Run. Woot! I was back in my element which I have missed so much. Oh my gosh, let’s do this!

I was so excited!  As I was running with almost 200 others at the start I realized how much fun I was going to have, how much I’ve missed ULTRA and how far I have come…again. I was laughing out loud as I passed John on his ladder telling us to get this party started.

Loop 1: The loop began with a steep climb up the ridge. I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn’t killing me. There are many many steep up and downs, with beautiful views on top, even in the dead of night. My calves didn’t blow up. They stayed strong. I looked out over the ridge and could see headlamps climbing up the hill, I could see the start/finish lights way down below. What an awesome adventure I was going to embark on.

There was quite a bit of mud on the trail from the quick snow melt during the week. I could feel it go up and over the top of my shoes. I was grateful that I was wearing my gators! 

During the first loop I was running near Robin and Mike-it was fun to recognize them and have enjoyable conversation while we caught up!

I had to change batteries after a few hours.  I was glad I had extras on board.  I was making sure to eat a gel every 30 minutes, I was staying on schedule, drinking 20 oz of water each hour.

I returned to the start/finish at 4:45. I felt awesome!  It was still dark-there wasn’t any light in the sky. I ran to my car, removed and washed my feet, lubed them up and changed socks and shoes. I didn’t like the feel of one of my toes in the Inov-8s I was wearing so swapped out for another pair of the same model. I changed out of pants and put on a pair of shorts, was sad that I still had to use lights, filled up my bottle, grabbed a few gels and moved along. Elapsed time: 4 minutes. Sweet!

Loop 2: I ran back into the darkness, up the bluff, thinking to myself ‘wow, only one more visit to this bluff, one more visit to this downhill, one more visit to…’ etc. It seemed like time was moving quickly.  I was feeling so good I actually found myself excited about running the 100 miler here next year instead of lamenting and wishing I would have run the 17 miler instead. Whoopie!

I could overhear people talking about the rain that was forecast to arrive soon. I felt sprinkles on and off, but nothing that I was concerned about at this time.

About half way through Loop 2 the sun began to rise. I could finally pull off my headlamp and put away my handheld light. What a relief!  That headlamp was giving me a headache and I just can’t see in the dark!  I had surgery years ago and now wear glasses in the evening when it becomes dark. I have never run with them, though.

At about mile 26 I came up to Robin again. I was feeling super!  We checked in with one another-I shared with her that I had been eating 1 gel every 30 minutes, no solids and that I felt super. I told her my theory was that it took my untrained body 4 hours to began to burn fat, whereas when I was in tip top shape it took about 1. Oh well.

Waves of euphoria were flowing through me! I was feeling so good, so strong and so shocked!  I could now SEE the trail, I could move faster, my ankle was solid. No pain!  Woohoo. I wasn’t tired. I was in new mileage territory. I hadn’t run 50K since last September so as I crossed that threshold I let out a whoop! Not long after that whoop I’d think to myself ‘ok, don’t get too excited, you know how the bonk is’ then ‘oh, just enjoy it, flow with it and ride it while it is here!’  So I did.

As I was running along I thought of my conversation with Topaz before I left. I told him to think of me, to send me good strong running thoughts. I told him that I would run for him since he could no longer run for himself. I told him I would run for me, for all of the times that I wasn’t able to run. I could feel his good karma while I was running upon the trail. Tears began to flow from my eyes.

I thought of myself in a ball of pain, on the floor,  in the kitchen. The herniated discs so painful that I didn’t know if I should scream or cry, two years ago. I thought of my broken ankle and being told that I would never run again, last September.  I thought of the beginning of this downward spiral: the  hysterectomy, the menopause that immediately followed and then began to break down my body, my mind.  Changing it into something I didn’t recognize. I almost let it take me down. I almost became tired of fighting it. I was ready to give in. Almost.

I could hear thunder in the distance. I saw the lightening. The winds began to strongly blow cold air. Mother Nature let loose!  Hail, torrential rain. So much for my easier run during Loop 2 in the daylight!  Holy Shit.

I composed myself. I wasn’t going to panic. I could do this. I have run in rain, in storms before.

I was climbing the ridge to Ant Hill. On that  ridge the wind was blowing leaves at me, branches were falling from trees. The  rain was pummeling my face. I could taste the salt from my face. I couldn’t see!  I pulled my windbreaker from my waist and put it on, pulling my hood over my head. It was soaked within minutes.  I gingerly began to climb down Ant Hill. Luckily there were rocks strewn about so it wasn’t quite as slick as some of the other mudified areas. I began to laugh, hysterically!  What else could I do? Keep on moving, one foot in front of the other.

The mud was so deep that it pulled off my shoe! My gaitors had been pushed up from the Velcro in the back from the mud but they were still attached by the hook in front, so it was dangling from my toe. I went straight down!  Ick. I had to laugh, it was a riot!  I was having a mud bath. A stinky slimy mud bath.

Now I was getting cold. I was soaked through, in shorts. As I ran along a long dirt road section to the aid station I saw Rick and Jordan. Jordan was running his first 100. He was freezing. Rick told me they would get a garbage bag at the aid station. I ran into the aid station and asked the kind folks from TCRunning Company if they had any garbage bags. Yes!  A life saver. The kind volunteer popped a hole in the top and two holes for my hands. Matt came to tell me many had dropped. I couldn’t. I was not hurt. On I went. The rain was coming down in buckets. I grabbed a few gels and carried on, running up the trail.

I tried to navigate the mud. It seemed best to go straight up the middle. When I tried to run along the side I ended up sliding into the middle anyway. WOW!  I still felt fabulous though, I was riding the endorphin rush.  I hoped it would last.

I had heard that many were dropping. Of the almost 200 50 milers there were less than ½ of us still out there. Of the 60 100 milers there were less than 1/2 as well. There was a high rate of attrition.

Loop 3. Final. As I ran into the start/finish at 34 miles I just couldn’t believe how great I felt. Sure, I was a cold wet dog but I didn’t have any ankle pain, no pain at all, no blisters, no chafing, I was golden man, golden! I really couldn’t believe it.

I was going to change, but then decided why bother. It was still pouring, I’d still get soaked.  I went up to the aid station and everyone asked how it was going. When I replied oh fine, it’s an adventure, it’s not that bad!  I received a few eye rolls and one person began to ridicule my response, explaining to me why he and many others had dropped. It was unsafe. What would happen if I fell, etc. I wasn’t putting anyone down for dropping, I was just having an awesome time and as long as my ankle didn’t hurt I was good to go! They had asked how I was doing so I just responded.

I decided to listen to my iPod for Loop 3. I still couldn’t believe it was the final loop!  I was beginning to wonder when the low would come? Maybe it wouldn’t!  I had been eating a gel ever 30 minutes, I was still on task, I was ahead of my projected 15 hours. WOOfrickingHOO!

The rain stopped!  I was still foraging a deluge of mud and water but the rain had stopped!  I was having so much fun. SO MUCH FUN!  I was a bit over the top, coming up on people and just bubbling over with happiness while so many were suffering. I tried to hold it back, but I wear my emotions on my sleeve and it really was hard for me to do. I was bubbling over with joy.

Climbing another ridge I came upon Jim Wilson. I just love Jim!  He was moving along. I gave him a hug and moved on.

I was doing what I love to do. Doing what had been taken away from me. I was reveling in the movement of my body, the joy that it was bringing to me. I was thinking about Savage 100 and the fact that I was excited about it, excited to dig deep and to see what I still had inside of me. It’s been a long time.

I began to get choked up. I began to hold my hand to my face and sob. I was here, I was running under these horrible conditions and having the time of my life. I went from moments of sobbing with joyful emotion to holding back, trying not to get too excited. Holding back was futile.

2 more miles. I couldn’t believe it. I felt great, strong. I was doing this. I ran along, under my 5 hour loop goal, under my 15 hour total goal. I began to do the math. I’d finish in under 1450, possibly 1430. Wow.

I ate 30 gels!  THIRTY GELS!!! Nothing else. I drank water, had two SCaps.  THIRTY GELS!  I took two Advil for good measure. Just because. Wow. Stellar.

As I hit the field to the start/finish someone yelled out GO JULIE!  Another yelled, COME ON, RUN THROUGH ONE MORE MUD PUDDLE, as he pointed to the huge body of water sitting in the field. I did it!  I splashed through that last mud puddle and laughed crazily. They laughed and cheered!  I heard Cheri say IT’S JULIE! IT’S JULIE BERG! A group of people came together and cheered and yelled as I came into the finish line. I couldn’t contain myself. She’s smiling!  She’s still smiling!  I was. I was euphoric. I did it. I could still do it.

I gave John and Cheri each a hug. John and I stood there, laughing at one another. I whispered – ‘it’s been 5 years, John, 5 fucking years’- ‘I know, but you’re back now’. Yes. Yes I am.

I visited with others, drank my super recovery drink and changed into clean clothes. I learned that I was First Master Woman.  I left that party with a huge smile on my face. I am still wearing it. 

Afton 50K Race Report: Reroute: BRUTAL

Oh man, what a day!

Because of the State of Minnesota shutdown (government couldn't pass a budget)the non essential areas of government are closed. This includes the State Parks. Afton State Park is the location of the Afton 50K.

John Storkamp, our incredible RD, could have just canceled the race. We would have expected it. Instead he chose to go through more planning and headache and was granted permission to hold the Afton 50K at the Afton Alps, just next door to the Afton State Park. SWEET!

This meant yes, that the race would be held upon the ski hills and mountain bike trails. Would it be more difficult that Afton 50K or easier. I knew it would be more difficult. In the past I have spent many a day getting in ski hill repeats-ouch, but never along with a 50K run. Lordy.

Parking was fabulous. When Bill P guided me into a spot I had to ask "Bill, is this a Team Ortho race?" It was awesome!

Afton Alps gave the race the chalet and all of the fixings for the day. Amazing.

I looked at the beginning of the course and saw the flags going right up the frickin' first ski hill. Really?

Yeah, really.

After mingling a short while we were ready to get this party started. I walked to the back of the line-yup, dead last. I didn't care if I was DFL today (deaf effing last) it was better than a DNF (did not finish) and that was my mantra going into and while running the race.

It was hot. I was already sweating buckets. I reminded myself to take SCaps today at the aid stations, which I normally don't do. My body is different after the hysterectomy a few months back. It sweats more among other things!

I found myself with Les Martisko, a runner in his 60s who I began my ultrarunning with. I always used to run with Les in my early races, then I moved toward the front, now I was enjoying company with him upon the trail again. We had great conversations during the first half of the first loop.

Pretty soon I was running with Tom Andrews and Pat Gorman. We finished out the loop together, I really enjoyed running with them. I was quite worried about the race after finishing this first loop in 156. Climbing the ski hills at the end was crazy bad. It was hot-at 830 in the morning-I was sweating and gasping for air. Shitpie.

Into the start finish to crazy loud cheering "JULIE" it was so awesome! All of my friends, what a great experience! My bottle was filled, I grabbed Scaps and Hammergels and was out of there. I needed to keep this pace. I had heard 9 hours was the cut off so off I went.

Pretty soon Tom caught up to me. He explained we should run the flats and downhills, walk the ups of course and that way we would get in under 9. He was right on. I climbed the switchbacks, ski hills and ran the flats-which were few-as was shade-and ran the downhills. Hot hot hot. Wet wet wet. I don't know if I've ever sweat so much.

2nd loop was 200 again. OK, good deal. I can do this. I was happy to be 1/2 through. Again a chorus of "ICE BERG" "GO JULIE" it was fabulous fun. I took a bow and made everyone laugh. Or was that the 3rd loop? Who knows.

3rd loop I was on my own. I didn't really see anyone but sure was happy to get into the aid stations! Doug Barton was at AS1 and I was so happy to tell him "next time I see you I'll be on my 4th loop"! He filled my bottle and gave me ice and I was off. I was really enjoying this.

During the 3rd loop Duke Rembleski came upon me! I love Duke! I hadn't seen him in forever and was thankful that this was a 4 loop course so that I could walk and talk with him. He was on his 4th loop. It was so great to visit.

At 4.4 miles Helen Lavin and Maria Barton and crew were manning the station. It was great to come in each time and chat with happy smiling people! After a cooling off of ice water and sponges I felt revitalized! Off to get loop 3 finished.

At about 1 mile to the start/finish I heard JULIE! Oh my goodness, Eve Rembleski! Yahhoo I love Eve too! She was running strong in back of me, I waited for her to catch up and pass so I could run after her a yell out a few words! Eve took 1st woman/7th overall. So great to see you!

The 3rd loop came to an end, another loud chorus of HERE COMES JULIE and I could only laugh! I had the worse chaffing ever. My shorts and top were so soaked and rubbing on me, completely rubbed me raw. Cheri brought me over a big canister of Vaseline that really helped. Nancy washed me off with ice water oh, so wonderful. Holly filled my hat with ice, I grabbed watermelon and proceeded to drop it upon Eves toes! Nancy did the bending down for me to pick it up.

3rd lap was 2:11 OK, let's get this party moving.

The 4th lap I was just so darn grateful that I was going to finish this beast! It was truly a beast. I had chafing from hell but that was the only complaint. My legs weren't tired (why??), no blisters-Foot Potion-and I was truly happy to be out on the course.

As the 4th lap came to an end I surprised myself by tearing up. Pretty soon I was sobbing. On one hand I tend to think I should be able to run as fast and as hard as pre hysterectomy and on the other, more sane hand, I am just so grateful to be running again. I was crying because I am so thankful to be able run again. This felt like my McNaughton 100 wins. Really.

I finished the race in 830, in good form. I was able to run my fastest as I ran over the finish line.

Thank you so much to all of the volunteers, Cheri and John, all of you out there. It was an incredible day and I'm just so thankful that I was able to experience it.

Now I must pack up my food and head up to the Lake. Happy 4th of July :)

Ice Age 50 Mile Ultramarathon

I just spent an awesome weekend in Hustisford Wisconsin for the Ice Age Trail Races. I have run the Ice Age 50 Miler 4 different times, the last time in 2007, and decided it was time to run upon the trail again. This year the race offered a half marathon, 50K and 50 Mile option. I was in for the 50.

We were a group of four traveling to Hustisford Wisconsin. Bill offered to drive us, we had a ‘cabin’ for the weekend on Lake Sinissippi for free. Our weekend cost was going to be minimal. We were able to fit all of our gear into the back of Bill’s Toyota Prius, I had my cooler between Alicia and I.

Our drive down was fun, joking and telling stories on the way. While Matt and Bill navigated the way to our destination Alicia and I just sat back and enjoyed the ride. We almost stopped to visit an establishment called Cruisin’ Chubbies. We decided against it.

As we approached the cabin we all had our mouths wide open as we took in the view. Our ‘cabin’ was a beautiful home set upon the lake. A sweeping deck around the outside, fireplace, Jacuzzi, drive through garages, it was crazy beautiful. We felt like royalty entering the front door. Wow.

We visited and made preparations for the morning. I retired to my huge bedroom and big bed. Read for an hour and called it a day.

At 340 we woke up to ready ourselves for the day. Matt brought Peet’s coffee along as well as traveler cups so we were super spoiled. A quick breakfast of oats for me and we were off to Ice Age.

We arrived the start by 515, a good 45 minutes before the race start. Plenty of time for collecting number, chip, visiting and photos. About this time I noticed that my GPS wasn’t working. I had charged it on Friday but must have left it on. I like to use it, at minimum, to direct me as to when to take gels. Ugh. Matt had mentioned earlier that he wasn’t going to wear his watch so let me wear his instead. It wasn’t a GPS but did have a running time, I was thankful!

Before the race our RD told us that Tom Bunk was running his 26th in a row and that as a finisher Lorraine would be solo in her age group of 70+. They both finished! I ran with them for a few miles during the race and am just in awe of the two of them.

It rained and the wind was blowing like crazy all night long but amazingly the course was in pretty good shape on Saturday. I have seen it much, much worse. I enjoyed myself so much, running along the trail, saying hello and catching up to others that I haven’t seen in some time.

I drank Hammer Heed from the stations and was able to pick up Hammer gels. I just love that so many races are now sponsored by Hammer Nutrition. I haven’t had to haul along powder in baggies to mix my drink along the trail in quite some time. I always carry Hammergel along just in case, but took them back home with me. I was able to refill on gel at every aid station. I even tried a new flavor: Colorado Mulberry or Huckleberry. It was quite good but not as good as my favorite Espresso.

I was feeling good, running along the course at mile 13 when I felt a cramping of some sort. I had never felt it before so thought maybe it was due to nerves, breakfast, or who knows what. I continued to run along and these cramps were starting to come every 5 minutes or so. I stopped to stretch out my core, massaged my lower abs. I noticed that when I walked I didn’t have cramps. By mile 15 I was starting to have some spotting. I hadn’t spotted at all during my hysterectomy recovery, this was very alarming to me. I told myself I’d just run to the next aid station and drop if I was still spotting.

I walked for a while, the cramping and spotting stopped so I began to run along, feeling pretty good. At 20 miles I told Vicky and Wayne what was going on. They reassured me by letting me know they would be at the aid stations for the duration of the day. This really helped me mentally, knowing they would be there. They were crewing for Rick, who was ahead of me, as was Alicia and Matt. I figured I might as well go to the next aid station, 23.

By mile 23 the spotting was heavier and the cramping felt like contractions. What the hell? I wasn’t going to chance this and end up with a big problem. There wasn’t crew access at 23 so I decided at 26 I’d call it a day. A marathon is a good distance to call it a day I told myself. But 50K is better.

Well, eventually the spotting had turned to bleeding and contraction like cramps were causing a lot of pain. I told Vicky and Wayne I was finished because of this. It was the pits. I felt fine otherwise. They let me know that Bill had dropped a while back and was in the car. I collected my drop bag and did the same.

I didn’t feel to bummed about dropping, I was more concerned. Once I was off of my feet and sitting the cramping began to go away. The bleeding was back to spotting. Thank goodness.

We drove to the start/finish, they dropped off Bill and I. We changed into dry warm clothing and headed off to find Alicia and Matt along the course. I really enjoyed watching the runners come through the aid station. I don’t often see this side of the race. We set up at outbound mile 37/inbound mile 43. I watched many of the people that I had been running with come in and run out. Matt was coming back and looked good even though he said he was tired and felt crabby. He looked strong and fast to me. Drank a few mouthfuls of coffee and we told him we’d see him at the finish.

The clock was close to the cut off time. Rick came in only a few minutes after the cut off and Alicia a bit after that. She had been suffering a sick stomach for many miles and continued to stick it out on the trail. Amazing.

We drove back to the finish for Alicia to change and for all of us to eat. We mingled and watched the finishers come in. It was so much fun to cheer and whoop it up for them. Matt came in just after 10 hours, our single finisher in our traveling group. Way to go, Matt!

I was freezing. Even with three shirts, a sweatshirt, two jackets I was still cold. It was raining and blowing. Alicia and I went to wait in the car and just hung out, drinking the Peet’s coffee that Matt brought along 12 hours ago. It was still warm. Yum!

Eventually we headed off to our house of beauty for rest and relaxation. What a nice place. We totally enjoyed ourselves before turning in for the night.

I’m feeling just fine today. No cramping or spotting. I called my surgeon and he told me that this normally takes place when one does too much too soon. He stated that he doesn’t have any other ultra runners as patients, that normally too much is an aggressive walk at 6 weeks. He thought I would have felt these after effects of hysterectomy earlier, during my 1/2 marathon or 50K. He commended me for actually listening to my body and stopping when I did. I’m sure thankful that I did!

He advised me against running Bighorn but stated the Minneapolis Marathon June 5 should be fine.

Team Ortho Lucky 7 Half Marathon

I may be healed but I am not trained.

Ugh.

Before I made the decision to have a hysterectomy I had planned on completing the UMTR Ultra Gnarly Bandit Series. 4 - 100 mile ultra marathons in the Midwest. Well, once the hysterectomy became a reality I realized I +may+ not be ready for Zumbro 100 in April (you think?).

I came up with another plan. The Team Ortho Monster Series. A 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon, Duathalon and another Half Marathon. I ran the 10K Polar Dash in January the second race was yesterday. Participants could either run a 7K or 21K (Half Marathon). I opted for the Lucky Half Marathon. I had a quick thought of pinning a tag to my back stating that I was only 7 weeks post op as a reason for my suckage.

My surgeon gave me his blessing to resume running two weeks ago. With 6 weeks off and a major surgery I knew running might be difficult..but I thought my body would catch on quickly. My running has been on a hiking trail under a few feet of snow. Lots of hills, lots of slow running. Well, not lots..nothing over 10 miles. I ran 10 miles last week. This run was partly on the trail with Topaz and it was so cold and slippery and tough on the trail that I ran the remaining miles on my treadmill. With an hour of driving and changing (rest) inbetween. This does not a half marathon make, I know realize..as if I didn't before.

As I have mentioned before, I really like the Team Ortho races. Except that I had to make a 4 hour round trip to packet pickup on Friday. That was the pits-rush hour and all.

Saturday morning it was 21F, a big moon hovering in the sky as I drove toward Minneapolis. As I neared Minneapolis the sky became cloudy and it was snowing. I was so glad I decided to wear long pants, gloves, ear band, light jacket and long sleeved thin top. I haven't run in shorts yet this year. It was windy too.

Race organization was excellent. Free parking at the Ford Plant. As I neared the plant volunteers were flagging cars in, directing up to parking slots. Awesome. I headed out a few minutes before race time and bumped into Monica. I first met Monica while working for Berkley, and later, at FANS 24 Hour Run. Now I see Monica regularly at races. Cool.

We chit chatted and waited for the GO. My plan was to go SLOW, a full two minutes per mile slower than usual, including 1 minute walk after each mile. I stayed true to this plan the whole race and then even added a few minutes. Egads.

I was cautious and maybe a little nervous at the beginning, wondering if I really was healed. I really didn't worry about the training. It didn't occur to me that surgery and 6 weeks off would really make that much of a difference.

I just trotted along the course, listening to conversation around me, noticing that I was running with a group of people that I haven't been running with lately. It reminded me of when I first began to run races. Many near me were running their first halfs, it was cool to listen to their excitement and future racing plans.

At 5 miles I saw the front leaders coming back, man, they were hauling ass and were running uphill. The course was hilly, mostly downhill on the way out with the wind in our face and mostly uphill on the way back with the wind at our backs. I ate a gel here, a few glasses of power ade and trudged along, making sure to walk a full minute after each mile. I was running 10 minute miles and was OK with that, although I was a bit miffed that a 10 minute mile wasn't feeling all that easy.

At 8 miles I began to get dizzy. It kind of freaked me out. I was running up a hill, stitches on both sides, and became dizzy. I slowed to a walk and heard this gasping. Is that me? I turned down my music and sure enough, I was gasping and wheezing. I was quite perturbed at myself. Why do I have side stitches, why am I dizzy and why am I gasping for air. Hello I'm running an 11 minute mile at this point. Hello you just had surgery and haven't run for 6 weeks. Bla bla bla. On and on I went. At the top of the hill I sat on a curb. Really! I've never sat down during a race on the curb. What the hell. There was an aid table near so I got up and grabbed a gel and some drink, feeling a bit better.

I began to run again, slowly, like real slow. 11 minute miles now. Up hill I ran, falling in back of the 2 hour pace team. I kept having contradictory thoughts. Oh my god, catch them, you have not had to train for a half marathon in 10 years..oh, no, wait, this isn't about catching anyone, it's about getting the distance in. How can this be so hard? It's a freaking half marathon...

I couldn't believe the difficulty I was having. I was really struggling. Its not like speed comes naturally to me anyhow. Normally I am running 60-80 miles per week and work hard for every bit of speed I can muster. My fast twitch muscles like to rest and I coerce them out of their rest weekly. Not now. They are in hibernation mode.

Finally I came up on mile 12, knowing that the end was near and just so thankful that I could at least run a half marathon at 7 weeks post op. It was difficult, I was fed up with myself for struggling so, but in the end I did reach the goal I had set upon myself. I ran the distance.. in 2:17 .. I have a starting point .. even if I feel as though I am starting over..

I tried not to think about Chippewa 50K next month, Ice Age 50 Mile in May and Bighorn 100 in June. I wasn't thinking positively enough to be thinking about future races.

After the race I was handed a bag of food and received so much schwagg for this race, it's kind of over the top.

I do love that I don't have to stand in a mob of people for my shirt, medal, food. ALL of the food is in a paper bag, handed to you. Very nifty.

Today Topaz and I headed off to the trail for a run. There is still 14" of snow and ice on the trail. Yes, I stuck a ruler into the snow and measured. I am hoping that there is at least a few inches less when I measure tomorrow! I ran 8 miles and felt tightness but no pain. If this snow doesn't melt soon I'll have to leave Topaz at home and get some road miles in. He'll be devastated but I'll be devastated if I can't finish Chippewa 50K! I'll need to run 20 next weekend and 25 before my Zumbro 100 shift. We'll see.

So the good news is that I am healed. I may not be well trained but I am well healed. The training will come.

And dear blogger, where is the spell check?

5 Weeks Post Hysterectomy

Here I am at five weeks post op. Thank goodness! I'm glad to have this whole scene in my past and to move on. I was so nervous before the procedure, nervousness that was not necessary but I didn't know that of course. I'm just glad to move on.

I am doing so well. I have had an uneventful recovery which is much better than I ever imagined. I haven't had any pain, no swelling, haven't needed any narcotics since I left the hospital, quit the Tylenol/Motrin 3 weeks ago. Really. All is well. I feel 100%.

My surgical pathology report arrived last week. It was interesting to read. I learned that I had 17 tumors upon my ovaries and fallopian tubes. 13 cysts and polyps in the endometrium and fibrous adhesion to the rectum and bladder. I had moderate to severe endometriosis. The pathology report is negative for cancers. Amen!

I had to chuckle at this: General: A very pleasant thin female, she is very healthy and is an ultra-marathon runner. Her resting heart rate is 35, upon examination 43.

I had forgotten that while I was in the hospital an alarm kept sounding, coming from one of the gadgets I was hooked up to, right after surgery. Steve looked at me in alarm and went out into the hallway to let a nurse know. She came back and told us the alarm was set to ring when my heart rate went below 50. She reset the monitor. I didn't pay attention. A few minutes later the alarm began again. She came back and again reset it, asking if I was OK. She explained again that the alarm would ring when my HR dropped below 50. This time I paid attention. I told her that if it was over 50 something would be wrong with me. I told her my resting heart rate was 35 and all I was doing was laying in bed, it wasn't going to get much higher. She was stunned. She called my surgeon and told him this info. He told her that I was an ultra runner and she could safely disconnect the heart rate monitor. It was kind of funny

I can't wait to run again! Walking is becoming boring. I am walking 40-50 miles a week. Yeah, I have time on my hands that is for sure. A few weeks ago I was walking to help with the healing. Moving the gas, strengthening my limbs, stretching my body as I had been laying around so much. After feeling pretty good I was walking for Topaz's sake. He could run and get some exercise..although he never really left my side. I guess he decided he would walk too. Now I am becoming bored with walking. I mean, I am grateful that I can at least walk, but obviously I am feeling super well since I am ready to R U N!

I am no longer walking in the neighborhood, I am now hiking the trails at the State Park. After 13" of fresh snow last week I was the first to trudge through the snow. That was quite a workout! Now the snowshoe trail is pretty well packed. Today I told myself the 8 mile walk was training for Bighorn 100. It gave the walk more meaning-a mind game of mine.

I began a puzzle that has 3000 pieces. I started last week and have made some progress.

I have been doing a bit of baking and trying out new recipes. We celebrated Troy's 15th Birthday - as a leap year baby he didn't get a 29th of February this year - so we celebrated Friday, Saturday and Sunday. He decided I should try Cafe Latte's Turtle Cake. It was a hit and tasted as good as Cafe Latte.

Food Network catches my eye every once in a while. I tried the braised brisket on Sunday with potato patties and it turned out very good. I normally don't create heavy meat meals, so Steve and Troy felt this was a treat. I had a large green salad with a bit of braised beef upon it. It was very tender.

I've been planning trips, races, etc. I've entered Chippewa 50K, Ice Age 50M and Bighorn 100. One race will cover training for the next race. I'm running Lucky Half Marathon in two weeks. I can't wait. I decided it wasn't a good idea to rush into Zumbro 100 in early April. I will be a moderate person and run the Chippewa 50K instead. See, I can be moderate :) I'll see if Larry needs me at an aid station or something else for Zumbro. I'm planning on Afton 50K, BETA VI and Voyager 50 Mile in July, need something for August, Superior Sawtooth in September, October is TC Marathon and Wild Duluth.

Friday is my 6 weeks post op appointment at Mayo. I will then be released to run, to work, to do anything my little heart desires. Thank goodness!! I am SO ready. I am SO done with this hysterectomy business.

2 Weeks Post Op

Thank you for all of the cards, texts, emails and phone calls. They mean a lot to me. I have a new appreciation for get well cards! A little something that means so much. Thanks again.

My first week at home had me out of sorts. I imagine the anesthesia stayed in my system for a while, as well as the pain meds I was taking in the hospital. Steve stayed home on Wednesday, went back to work on Thursday and then went to a pool tournament for the weekend. I wasn't on meds anymore so was able to drive Troy about. Just getting dressed and running one errand wore me out. I would be back home on the couch within minutes. I was able to begin walking without pain, just a bit of dizziness. My first week home I was walking 1-2 miles outdoors each day which seemed like a huge victory.

Week two went much smoother. I wasn't so tired all of the time and spent less time in bed or on the couch. I used Netflix and watched an array of movies: The Expendables, Time Travelers Wife, Hangover, WallStreet (II), Salt, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo; I finished a few books: Let Me In (spooky freaky), Winter Garden (so sad) and decided to read again one of my absolute favorite series (as well as Tyler's and Troy's) Terry Goodkind's Sword Series. I love it. I'm reading the first one now and can't put it down. There are like 12 books in the series and each book is 1000 pages long. Fabulous. It's been a few years since I last read the series.

Last week I was able to walk up to 5 miles each day. My surgeon stated "no exercise for 6 weeks but you can walk as much as you want to" "walking isn't exercise, not even like 10 miles?" "no, not really" Interesting hu? The media has us believe that walking 30 minutes a day can reduce fat, risk of heart disease, increase cardiovascular health but really, it doesn't make much of a change in a person. It is a great stepping stone to better health but in of itself, not so much. I don't think they (government? health industry? media?) believe that the average joe or jane will try to change their lifestyle if they are told they need to elevate their heart rate to 80% of max in order to reap benefit. That might be too uncomfortable and too far out of the comfort zone to contemplate. OK, off my soap box.

So I am walking 6 miles this week. Topaz probably runs about 10 because he is running up in front of me, herding me, having a great time.

Today it is -18F in Big Lake with a -34F wind chill. I actually placed hand warmers into my mittens and wore 3 layers top and bottom. Topaz sported heavy booties. Brrr!

My routine this past week is not too exciting. I have breakfast with Troy, drive him to school, go for a walk, read..facebook.. (too much) .. movie.. nap..walk to the bus stop to meet Troy .. at least I'm fixing dinner now .. go for another walk .. Biggest Loser or American Idol .. bed time ..

Last Sunday I ventured out for the first time other than a quick drop off. It was fabulous. I had lunch with my awesome friends at CRAVE at the Galleria. We were celebrating Tom's 30 year anniversary of sobriety. It was interesting to note that the majority of us are ultra runners and sober. It felt so very good to get out to see great friends, great conversation and a great meal. I had 101 questions to ask John and Jason as they had just returned from running the Arrowhead 135.(Click on the Arrowhead Link and watch the video. It is of the bikers - this race allows bike, ski and foot - and the scenery, the people, outstanding. But why not any runners in video? Oh well..) John won it again, finishing in 40 some hours and secured an entry to the Iditarod Trail Invitational 350 awesome video here, too. Wow. I was seated near Jason so I asked him 101 questions and told him that he could tell me at any time to stop asking. He never did. So I asked away..and learned a lot.

After I left Edina I picked up Troy from church and returned home to make dinner for the Superbowl half time. Troy had requested Giada's Twice Baked Potatoes. As I was prepping dinner I realized I wasn't exhausted. I had been up and about most of the day and felt very good. What a great turn of events.

So as I enter this third week of post op I am feeling very grateful for my uneventful recovery. My strength is returning, I am healing, I am not as tired as I was in the previous days.

Next Saturday I am speaking to the Minneapolis Junior League relating to healthy lifestyle/inspiration and motivation. The next few days will have me running my presentation through my mind, making less time for movies. That is a good thing!

There is bad news, however. Yesterday Mom learned that her ovarian cancer has spread to her lungs and liver. We are devastated. Her CA 125 had been on the increase and her latest scan revealed the bad news. However, she responded greatly to the chemo 6 years and again 3 years ago. We are very hopeful that she will again respond in the same manner. Today Mom has her first chemo treatment. We are praying that the chemo will be as effective as it has been in the past.

Hysterectomy: Rest and Recovery

Sheesh, Rest and Recovery is usually followed by the name of the last 100 mile race I ran. Well, this is a different type of rest and recovery. Much longer!

The prep for surgery went well. I drank 30 oz of magnesium sulfate at 6 PM, stopped solids and was able to have clear liquids until 4 AM. I didn't feel like the MS 'cleaned' me out like it was supposed to. I guess with my clean diet I don't have that much up to clean out? I had a few BM's nothing out of the ordinary.

Troy had Monday off from school, teacher workshop, so I told him he could choose how he wanted the day to play out. We could get a hotel in Rochester Sunday night, he could swim and spend the day between the hotel and hospital or he could stay home, with Dad returning home Monday evening. Or he could get up with us and leave for Rochester at 530AM. He chose to stay home. I was good with that.

Steve and I left at 530, I had my final cup of coffee at 4. I was calm, was having thoughts of returning home the next day.

Originally, when I was first speaking of hysterectomy with my local gynecologist she told me I would have to have a full abdominal surgery. Much like my incision from the two C Sections I have had. I was just really dreading that recovery. After I met with Dr. Dowdy, my gynecologic oncologist, from Mayo Clinic, he told me that wasn't so. He was going to preform the daVinci robotic procedure, with 5 small incisions. This changed my outlook. I wasn't so terrified of the recovery. Still a major surgery, but no hip to hip incision unless he found cancer.

Steve and I made it to Mayo 30 minutes early as is my nature. We checked in, they showed us to a room where I changed into hospital gown, was tagged, gave myself two fleet enemas (new experience and absolutely NO biggie), a medicated douche, had my IV inserted. Steve placed my boots, clothes, coat into patient bags with my tags attached, took my iPhone (my lifesaver!), my glasses, ID and insurance card. We just waited. I was beginning to get a bit nervous so practiced deep breathing and made Steve participate. He did whatever I told him to do. He was more nervous and afraid than I was.

About 30 minutes later a surgical nurse came to introduce herself. She told Steve to follow us and we would drop him off at the waiting lounge, he would be escorted to my room following surgery. They would call him on his cell as soon as surgery began and with an update every hour. Very nice.

We dropped Steve off and headed for the surgical wait room. I was lined up with a dozen or more other patients, with big curtains in between us. Surgical teams were coming to the patients, asking name and address, talking about procedure, etc. The woman next to me said she had lung disease. The nurse asked if she always used oxygen "except when I'm smoking" ish.

The surgical nurse came to introduce herself to me, the anaesthesiologist, Dr. Dowdy arrived and initialized my ovaries upon my abdomen. He told me that he had decided to complete a radical total vaginal hysterectomy. There would be NO incision and shorter period of time in surgery. I asked him if I would have less restrictions-can I go back to work earlier? No. Still a major surgery, still 6-8 weeks off, just no incision and less surgical time. OK then. He told me that vaginal hysterectomy causes fewer complications than the other types and is a very safe way to remove the uterus, cervix, tubes and ovaries. He told me it is not possible for woman with thick stomach fat or women who have adhesion from prior surgery. He told me the C Sections wouldn't give him a problem.

A few moments later I was wheeled to my operating room. Everyone welcomed me and introduced themselves. It was like a party. Real crazy, outgoing, warm. Dr Dowdy told them all I was an ultra runner and that is what the topic of conversation was. It calmed me. A man told me his mother has ovarian cancer and his sister just had a hysterectomy. Trisha, the surgical nurse I met earlier asked me if I had a dog. We spoke of Topaz for a long time. She asked about the type of dog food I fed him and what races I was going to run for 2011. I could feel the IV drug take over, I began to speak slurred. Kevin, the anesthesiologist told me he was going to put the mask over my face and to take deep breathes. I said OK, BYE BYE! They laughed and I was off to deep sleep.

When I began to come to I heard a flurry of activity around me. Kevin, Trisha and Dr. Dowdy were asking me if I was nauseous (no) in pain (no) cold (no), I felt fine. I was wheeled up to my room, Steve was already there.

It was 230. Surgery began at 1100 and was finished at 130. I didn't have pain, I was very dizzy. My nurse helped me to the bathroom. I was able to move around well so she removed the catheter.

Around 4 Dr. Dowdy came by to recap surgery. He told me I underwent a vaginal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectoy under general anesthesia. Surgery was uncomplicated. He said my tissue looked healthy, one ovary was enlarged with tumors, some endometriosis that he removed. Preliminary pathology looked cancer free, full pathology report next week. He felt I could be discharged the next day. Amen!

Cindy M stopped by for a visit. So wonderful to see her. We chatted, I was out of it, but so thankful to see her. Thank you Cindy!

Steve headed for home, relieved, about 5 PM to tend to Troy and then get him off to school on Tuesday morning. Steve would return Tuesday around 12 or so.

Monday evening my bladder was so full. I was walking around quite well, pushing the IV tank around. When I went to urinate I could only pass little amounts. My bladder was still full. I was drinking water and taking in the IV. Probably too much liquid.

At 5 AM the urology tech came in to measure my bladder. Full at 800 ml. She catheterized me and drained. Ah, relief. An hour later I was full again at 900 ml.

Dr. Dowdy came in to sign my release papers at 9 AM. I was ready to leave.. I thought. I didn't have an appetite but my nurse said I had to eat something solid before release. I ate a canned peach.

For pain I was taking extra strength Tylenol or Motrin every 6 hours with Oxycontin when necessary. I took the oxy two times. Other than bladder pressure I really wasn't in too much pain. A heating pad on my pelvic area felt very good.

The urology tech came by again at 3 pm, prior to discharge. I was full again at 1100 ml. She was getting worried and I thought my release might be revoked. My nurse called Dr. Dowdy. He came to my room, said that I could do one of two things: learn how to self catheterize myself and do this at home. In a day or two my bladder would settle down and I would be fine. Or, stay in the hospital with a catheter over night. Ugh! I didn't want to stay another night. I wanted to go home. Troy had a field trip the next day, it was his first day of the new semester (Tuesday) and I already missed talking about it. I wanted to be home. I told him I'd learn to self catheterize. He told me it as a piece of cake and the right decision.

The urology tech came back to teach me how. I didn't get it the first time. Darn it! She drained me and said she'd be back in an hour to give me another try. Dr. Dowdy called me and told me she would only observe me this next time, that I had to do it myself. OK. She came back and I was successful. It was kind of painful. My poor girlie parts were becoming irritated and sore.

As soon as I passed the self-catheterization test Steve came back into the room. I told him 'we are out of here'. I quickly changed into my fuzzy fleecy comfy clothing, had Steve pack my bag and we were out of there. I was wheeled to the discharge where Steve was waiting with the car.

The drive home was 2.5 hours. We stopped at Target in Plymouth so I could try to get some pee out. Ugh. Drops. I could feel my bladder filling and was not looking forward to having to drain it at home. Back to the car, back home.

Oh, so happy to be home! Troy had a big hug and flowers for me. Topaz went crazy and just whined and layed his head into my forehead. It was so good to be home.

Tuesday evening I did a self-cath. It went well, I was glad I decided to learn the process so that I could be home. It was absolutely fabulous climbing into my king size Select Comfort bed. Ah. All of my down blanket and duvet. Ah. Hot pad, all set. I slept until 11PM and woke to pee. I walked the 4 steps to the master bath. Topaz, laying at the foot of the bed, followed me into the bathroom. He put his paws upon my knees and kissed my face like I had been gone forever. As I was petting his ears I peed..and peed..I emptied my bladder! Oh, relief. I was so happy. So happy. I hoped I wouldn't need that damn self catheter kit again. I probably just needed to relax at home and forget about it.

Wednesday morning I was able to get out of bed quite well, only a bit of pressure in the pelvic region. I came downstairs and had coffee with Steve. He was taking another day off. I woke Troy, made him a lunch for the Romeo and Juliet field trip to the Guthrie Theatre. Steve took Troy to school and I was wiped out from that little bit of moving around! I climbed back into bed.

Steve came home, tried to walk Topaz but Topaz just kept coming back to the house, looking for me. Eventually Topaz went for a while. Steve did laundry, vacuuming, bathrooms, etc. I told him I was just going to sleep so go ice fishing or something. He headed off to do just that and would be home by the time Troy came in from school at 3.

At 215 I headed out for a walk with Topaz. The sun was shining and it was 30F! A heat wave. I had to feel some sun on my face. I am lumbering on down the driveway, so slow. Topaz is flying around the culdesac wondering where the heck is Mom? I made it about half way to the bus stop when I see Troy and Steve coming down our road. Steve followed Troy's bus and picked him up. Troy hopped out of the truck and walked back with me and Topaz to the house. Troy said 'Mom, this worse than your 100 mile race moving, you are slow moving traffic' yea, it sure was. That little outing had me tired again. I'll have to leave the house quite a bit earlier to actually make it to the bus stop on time. I could feel the pressure and knew it was time for my 6 hour Motrin dose.

Last night I came down to watch American Idol-god Steven Tyler is great on that show. Love him! Slept well last night, no sweats, no emotional upheavals, no menopausal symptoms as of yet.

I drove Troy to school today. Dr. said as long as I'm off the oxy that I can do so. I'm drinking lots of water, drinking prune juice and eating prunes-no painful BMs! Everything is really going well. I ate some canned chicken, Dijon mustard and shredded cabbage today. No more performing self-catheterizing. Ugh. That is something I can do without.

After bringing Troy to school I walked Topaz down the street. Came home and slept a few hours. I finally took a shower-had to laugh to see the doc's initials on my sides.

I think it is time for another nap!

This recovery is going well. I'm physically exhausted, to be expected I know. I will take it very easy and slowly.

Thank you so much for all of the cards, emails, texts, etc. I appreciate it so very much.

Off to the Castle

Yes, that is imagery at its finest. I am a princess heading off to the castle!

This past week I have prepared things at home for my castle stay. Hopefully I have over prepared and will only be at Mayo one night. If not, I have a few dozen meals ready in the freezer. Simply heat up and serve when I return from home.

The pantry is fully stocked, refrigerator is full. The laundry is cleaned, pressed and put away. Linens are changed and house is clean.

Notes for Troy's upcoming field trip, snowboard club, etc. All set.

I have estroven, estroven PM, stool softners, prune juice, gingerale, one a day menopause, many books, DVDs ready at home.

Yesterday I ran hard. It will be my last time for a while. Topaz and I enjoyed it greatly. Bittersweet; like saying goodbye to a best friend.

Last night I packed a bag: favorite down blanket, Magical Unicorn pillow pet, best fuzzy pink robe, slippers and pjs. Hair tie, brush, lotion, many magazines, book, iPhone, thank you cards, lifesavers, gum.

I hope to be back home tomorrow.

It's 445 AM. Check in is at 830. This Princess is on her way to the Castle.

Load up the Chariot, let's get this show on the road. See you on the post-op side!

The Big "H": Hysterectomy

Yeah, it's official. I have eluded to medical problems lately. Now it is confirmed and scheduled. Hysterectomy. Total Radical Hysterectomy with Bilateral Salpingo Oophorectomy.

Monday, January 24.

This involves the removal of uterus, both ovaries and of both tubes.(Insert SCREAM here)

I've put it off for six years. I only hope that I don't regret putting it off as long as I have. It was just never the right time, I had too much to do, races to run, who wants to sit around for 6-8 weeks for recovery and was it really necessary?

Ever since my Mom was diagnosed with Stage III Ovarian Cancer six years ago I have had ovarian cancer screenings every six months. My local gynecologist told me every six months that she felt I should have a hysterectomy soon (but not how soon), that the cancer screenings I was having were better than nothing, (but not that good), that it was too bad I wasn't in menopause yet because sudden surgical menopause is a bitch. So I waited. I continued with a trans-vaginal ultrasound every six months, a CA 125 blood test and promised myself I'd have a hysterectomy..soon...whenever that is..

Six years later and I have begun to have pain. Now, I have a high tolerance for pain. I have had 'doubled over at the waist' kind of pain from my ovaries. Sharp, jabbing pain. It scared me. My periods became heavy nasty affairs that I had never ever had before. My ultrasound showed tumors for the first time. My CA125 has increased for the first time. This time I took hysterectomy seriously.

I made an appointment with a gynecologic oncologist at Mayo Clinic for a second opinion. He looked at my familial cancer tree. See, my Dad created this document for I and my sister after Mom was diagnosed. It goes back 4 generations and lists all of the cancers with the relations. Very awesome. My surgeon commented on how great it was to have my 'cancer tree' at his fingertips. He then examined me. He asked me what the hell had I had been waiting for. My reasons (excuses) sounded ridiculous coming from my own mouth. I told him so. He did more than suggest a hysterectomy. He insisted. I let him schedule one for me.

The hope is that this will be proactive to cancer, not a treatment for cancer. During the surgery he will send tissue to pathology. If no cancer, he'll finish, I'll be on my to recovery. If there is cancer, he will remove it and I'll treat as necessary.

I am actually very lucky. My Mom gave me a gift of knowledge that she didn't have. She didn't realize she was at risk, didn't realize she should be screened, didn't realize that she could lessen her risks with diet and exercise.

I have had CA125 tests every six months, trans vaginal ultrasounds every six months, prescription for birth control pills as they are a risk reducer, genetic counseling, genetic testing, etc. I know my risk.

I am fortunate that I have accrued enough sick time so that I will have a paid leave of 6 weeks. I will have a job to go back to. A job that I really love and am really going to miss. Students have told me they will miss me, miss talking with me 'and who is going to bring us Bath and Body lotions and soaps?' I brought in a few of each today for my desk so that they don't run out while I'm away. I told them to think of me while I'm gone.

..and then I think..oh my god, what am I going to do for 6 weeks? I will go back to work in the SPRING. SPRING. That's crazy. 6 weeks? Really?

..and sudden surgical menopause? Great. Sweet. Memory loss, hot flashes, no desire for sex, fatigue, irritability, mood swings, depression, anxiety, insomnia, weight gain, joint pain, stiffness to name a few. No wonder I put this off. I am not a candidate for HRT because of my cancer risk.


My surgeon told me that because I am lean, fit and strong that I should recovery quickly. He told me that I am at a lower risk for infection and other complications because I am in great shape.

He told me I may have to scratch Zumbro 100 for April; or not? I make a great cheerleader. I can work an aid station. If I can't run I'll be there to help out.

I've changed my way of thinking. 6-8 weeks of recovery is a whole lot better than treating for cancer. I'm now looking forward to the surgery so that I can heal, recover and move on.

So ultra girls, do tell: how long post hysterectomy until you ran your next 100? Or until you began to train for it, or until you began to RUN?

Wish me luck. I need it. 6 weeks of recovery. Good grief.