Week 5 of 16

Yesterday was my first 10 mile run since 2002 and it felt great! I ran East on Pelham parkway, up Shore Road on the bike/run path into Pelham, over to the golf course (a great frisbee spot) and back.

No more shin splint problems since I changed my posture, iced up, and started stretching every day. It has become more difficult to run this month with an unpredictable schedule, night shifts, and 5am alarm clocks but I'm more enthusiastic as we come to the last 2 1/4 months. Also, the surprisingly positive support I am now receiving from my new medical school class of 2007 is boosting my confidence that I am not alone when I run. Thanks to all of you!

As I write, I am at 49% at week 5 of 16 -- nearly half way there.

Week 4 of 16

This week's long run was 9 miles. I ran to Pelham in Westchester County and back. I was getting shin splints for while and have been changing everything about my stride and warm up routines. I finally figured out through rest and ice and stride changes how to reduce them. Now they are completely gone!

Also, I bought new running shoes last week and they seem to be more supportive than the cheapies I bought earlier. Apparently running shoes are only good for 400 miles so I will need a third pair before the marathon. No matter what they say, running is an expensive sport.

I am at nearly 40% of my fundraising goals right now and I could definitely use the help of anyone reading this. If I don't raise another 1500 dollars, I will not be able to run in the New York Marathon this November. Thank you to those who have already helped me.