A Day In the Life of a DFMC Team Member

In my spare time:

1. The Skate to Freeze Cancer tasks;
2. Advertise skating lessons;
3. Compose list of mailing addresses;
4. Draft and mail letters to potential sponsors;
5. Call patient partner;
6. Thank you notes;
7. Set up See Katy Run group on Facebook;
8. Request email addresses from reunion attendees;
9. Flyer neighborhood;
10. Run!

Send me your additional fundraising suggestions and ideas! Your help is greatly appreciated!

Run, Run Rudolph

I was able to stick to my running schedule up until last week when the holiday craziness finally caught up to me. I had a wonderful time visiting family and friends, but the Christmas parties really kept me busy around the clock. I'm happy to report, however, that my life is back to normal!

I'm so thankful to everyone who gave me running clothes for Christmas! I absolutely love all of my gifts, but I was in dire need of workout gear! I used to have to do a load of laundry after exercising because I would dirty almost all of my running clothes during a single run. I've already made great use of my new base layers, hats, socks, gloves, zip-up jackets, and lime green fleeces! I also tried out my new pedometer during my 15,744 step run this afternoon. Check out the new additions to my running library below as well! I would also like to use this post to thank both of my sisters for sponsoring my run! It was so nice finding a check made payable to DFMC and a dollar shaped "I owe you" under the tree on Christmas morning!

Now that the Christmas craziness is behind us for a few months, I am back on track with my running. I finally caught up on my sleep, and I feel like Katy again! On Saturday, I spent most of the day unpacking and organizing my life. I developed my running plan for the remainder of the week (including my last two workouts in 2007). I really tried to redeem myself for last week with an eleven mile run this afternoon. I'm going to try to fit in another eight mile run tomorrow morning before work as well.

My run this afternoon started off terrific despite my being a little bit nervous about the fact that this was my first run in over a week! I took the subway to the Woodland stop with my roommate and ran along our usual route. It turns out that Maureen saw us running while she was visiting Katherine and Pete at their home. We ran to Kenmore Square and followed Brookline Avenue to Dana-Farber to finish only 10.5 miles of running. Keep in mind that my goal was to complete eleven miles without fail!

Towards the end of my run, I simply ran out of steam. This was a totally new experience to me! I had heard that it's difficult to run for two hours straight without needing additional fuel, but I didn't realize the extent of these words until I became somewhat light-headed and shaky. I didn't feel entirely bad, but I just HAD to EAT! It probably didn't help that I was running past Dunkin' Donuts, pizza shops, and chocolatiers. The usual bowl of Special-K that I had for breakfast just didn't cut it, so I ended my run after 10.5 miles. When I got home, I didn't bother to change my clothes. I went straight to the refrigerator. I grabbed a clementine and wolfed down another bowl of cereal in record time. While it was tempting to hit the shower, I just couldn't do it! My goal was to run eleven miles, and nothing was going to stop me! I ran back out the door and around the block to complete my original mission!

My motivation this afternoon was a result of a) a recent phone call to my patient partner's mother, b) all of my sponsors, and c) my new running gear. It's a wonderful feeling knowing that I have the support of my family and friends!

I was a little bit nervous to make the intial phone call to my patient partner. She was unavailable at the time, so I left a message. I really hope to hear back soon, but I understand that it might be a difficult time to talk on the phone.

I'm so grateful to everyone who has already sponsored me! I'm particularly motivated by my two sponsors who agreed to give Dana-Farber $1.00 per every mile that I run in training (payable in monthly installments)! December is coming to a close, so I'm trying to squeeze in a few extra miles today and tomorrow. I'm also currently drafting letters to new, potential sponsors. Please let me know if you are interested in sponsoring my run, and I would be happy to send you more information!

Ice Skating Lessons

It's time to test out those skates that you got for Christmas! As a recently retired professional figure skater for Disney on Ice, I have many, MANY years of figure skating and coaching experience. I will be offering ice skating lessons to people of all ages and abilities to raise money towards my run in the 2008 Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute! See details below:

WHAT: Private and semi-private ice skating lessons with a recently retired professional figure skater from Disney on Ice!

COST: $50/hour or $25/half hour - 100% of lesson proceeds will support my run in the 2008 Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

WHERE: Lessons will be offered during public skating sessions at rinks located in and around Boston, Massachusetts including, but not limited to:

1. Simoni Memorial Arena, Cambridge
2. Steriti Memorial Arena, Boston (North End)
3. The Frog Pond, Boston
4. Veterans' Memorial Rink, Arlington
5. Daly Memorial Rink, Brighton
6. Reilly Memorial Rink, Brighton (Cleveland Circle)
7. Veterans Memorial Rink, Somerville

WHEN: Contact me for availability and locations! My schedule is pretty flexible after work and on weekends (whenever I'm not running)!

CONTACT ME: Email me at kcounihan@gmail.com OR feel free to respond to this post!

Streakers

It takes a certain kind of runner to find the strength and dedication to get up and run every single day--sometimes for decades on end. These so-called "streak runners" are a rare breed who manage to run through injuries and natural disasters, all in the name of keeping their records alive.

According to the United States Running Streak Association, a running streak is defined as running at least one continuous mile within each calendar day under one's own body power (without the utilization of any type of health or mechanical aid other than prosthetic devices).

Owen sent me this great article for motivation: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/eticket/story?page=streakrun

Back on Their Feet Running Club

Anne Mahlum started a running club for homeless people in Philadelphia called "Back on Their Feet." Check out the story at: http://abcnews.go.com/WN/PersonOfWeek/story?id=4003180

No More Blisters!

WRIGHTSOCK^TM is the right sock! Double layer technology delivers the no blister promise through a three-part system:

1. Moisture Management : Dri-WRIGHT^TM inner layer wicks moisture off the skin better than any other fabric. The Result... your feet stay dry.

2. Temperature Regulation: Staying dry means staying cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. The Result... your feet are more comfortable.

3. Friction Reduction : Interaction between the inner and outer sock layers absorbs friction that is normally transferred to the skin. The Result... skin shear is eliminated.

The Skate to Freeze Cancer to benefit Dana-Farber

Hillary, Sarah, and I recently completed the pre-event plan and budget for an event called The Skate to Freeze Cancer. If it is approved by Development Fiscal and Regulatory Management, The Skate to Freeze Cancer will take place on February 18, 2008 starting at 6:00pm at the Simoni Memorial Arena in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Participating skaters will be asked to raise a minimum of $25 for innovative cancer research prior to the big skate-a-thon. The top skating fundraisers will have the opportunity to earn some terrific prizes (HINT: including an interactive opportunity with some famous high school students)! FMC Arenas donated two hours of ice time and skate rentals for up to 400 people to make this event possible! Please respond to this post with your email address if you are interested in freezing cancer on February 18th! More information to come!

Double Runners

Our DFMC runner's meeting was cancelled on Saturday due to bad running conditions along the Charles. The Thursday night Crossroads run didn't happen because of the blizzard that hit Boston. After missing a couple of workouts, I was determined to get my long run in on Saturday afternoon. I left the house around 1:30pm to meet Keegan at the Woodland stop on the D-line at 2pm sharp. Kate decided to join us as well! For someone that's not planning on running a marathon, Kate certainly does a lot of cold weather running! After a few rough workouts last week, I was glad to have Keegan and Kate at my side. I really must remember to avoid peanut butter granola bars before my long runs! We maintained a steady pace along Newton's rolling hills and Kate picked up the pace as we approached Boston College. I was tempted to ring Katherine and Pete's doorbell, but we were women on an 11 mile mission! It was also important for us to keep moving to stay warm. The weather "schedule" did predict temperatures around 18F after all!

Kate stopped her run at Coolidge Corner, so that she could purchase a Christmas present for her brother. Keegan and I pressed on towards the famous Citgo sign before turning onto Brookline Avenue. I was on the lookout for Maureen, but our paths didn't cross. Marathoners really cover a lot of territory during their training. I had the opportunity to wave to half of Owen's family during my Saturday long run!

Longwood Avenue was extremely slippery and we had a couple of close calls on the ice. I should've worn my skates! We ran past Dana-Farber for inspiration. Keegan decided to finish her run at Stop and Shop because she needed to pick up some ingredients to make bacon and cheddar appetizers for a holiday gathering. I ran around the block to finish my first eleven mile run in approximately two hours.

DFMC Partner Program

It's official! Today, I was accepted into the DFMC Partner Program! I've been paired up with a young patient at the Jimmy Fund Clinic, and I'll be running the 2008 Boston Marathon in his or her honor! As I mentioned in an earlier post, I'm running in an attempt to connect with Dana-Farber and it's mission on a deeper level, and I can't imagine a better way to do this than through participation in this program. I am excited about this opportunity, and I can't wait to cross the finish line for my partner!

My Next Running Purchase

I would like to take a moment to dedicate this post to Steve, who saved my life during last week's unofficial DFMC run! Reflective gear is an essential part of a runner's wardrobe, and I shall purchase a brightly colored vest and/or neon suspenders before embarking on another nighttime expedition.

You are Now at a Crossroads.

I've come to the conclusion that Crossroads should receive a 2008 Best of Boston award in the restaurants and food category for offering the best cheese pizza after a nine mile run. On Thursday night, I hopped onto the D-line with Sarah and a few other DFMC runners to run "hills." I prefer to replace the word hills with "the Boston Marathon route." Running "the Boston Marathon route" has a much nicer ring than running "hills." Sarah and I started our run at the Woodland stop while the others in the group took a few minutes to stretch. We figured we'd give ourselves a bit of a head start because we were obviously the only first-time marathoners in the group that night. We tippy-toed across the icy sidewalk on Washington Street until we heard the pack of runners moving in on us. We tried to pick up the pace in an attempt to save face, but the other runners blew past us like a strong gust of wind.

With the other runners up ahead, Sarah and I continued at a steady, ten mile pace along Newton's rolling hills. This was Sarah's first experience running along the carriage path, and we were both impressed by the Christmas lights and mansions on the route. It was difficult to point out the infamous heartbreak hill in the dark until we were actually running up it. We made it to Cleveland Circle and turned left on Beacon. We pushed ourselves up the hill before Coolidge Corner, and ran until we found Crossroads. Our run culminated in a high-five, a hug, and the opportunity to get to know a few of our 2008 DFMC teammates. I was so impressed by Sarah's strength and determination to complete the route without stopping, and I'm already looking forward to our next run together!

Today was Cold ... But I Ran

It took me at least a half hour to figure out what to wear for my first "cold" weather run this winter. After changing clothes three or four times, I settled on a pair of blister free socks, two pairs of running pants, a sports bra, two dry-fit tops, my black fitness fleece from L.L. Bean, a polyester hat, gloves, and my Asics. I took the subway out to the Riverside stop on the D-line. Kate decided to join me on my run at the last minute and Emily thought we were both crazy for running outside. It was "fine once we got running." We ran to the border of Wellesley and back down Washington Street. I followed the marathon route to Coolidge Corner and continued on to complete my second ten mile run.

I would also like to use this post to write about my late night run on Thursday. It wasn't nearly as cold as today, but it was still somewhat chilly. I ran along the marathon course in the dark with Kate. I had a wonderful run despite my tripping over a couple of potholes. The hardest part of this particular run was determining whether to watch for oncoming traffic or deadly potholes. I was afraid that I might've twisted my ankle, but I'm glad to report that my ankle is pain free. My next running purchase will definitely be a reflective vest!

Marathon Champions

What defines a champion? I've copied and pasted a few definitions of the word below:

• someone who has won first place in a competition
• someone who fights for a cause
• supporter: a person who backs a politician or a team etc.; "all their supporters came out for the game"; "they are friends of the library"
• protect or fight for as a champion
• holding first place in a contest; "a champion show dog"; "a prizewinning wine"
• ace: someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field

I'm forever reading stories of marathon "champions," so I've decided to include a few of their profiles in my blog:

Although Dave McGillivray is dazzlingly skilled in running, he has never won a single marathon. I actually had the opportunity to hear him speak at the recent Conference on Philanthropy in Boston. He reinforced the importance of a strong work ethic and spoke on the value of surrounding oneself with motivational people. He also emphasized the significance of jotting one's personal goals down on paper, which is why I'd like to declare that my marathon goal is to finish! Dave is a true inspiration in my life and is best known for:

• He ran across the U.S. in 1978 for The Jimmy Fund. McGillivray ran a total of 3,452 miles in 80 days averaging 45 miles a day;
• In May 2004, McGillivray ran across the country again, this time with nine other veteran marathoners, in relay style, from San Francisco to Boston as part of TREK USA, an event which he founded that raised over $300,000 for five children's charities;
• McGillivray is Race Director of the world's oldest and most famous road race, the B.A.A. Boston Marathon for which he has worked tirelessly for 20 years;
• Personally, he has run 121 marathons including the Boston Marathon for the past 35 consecutive years, the last 19 at night after his race director duties have been completed;
• As a personal challenge at age 12, he began running his age in miles on his birthday each year, never having missed a year in the past 39 years. Last year he ran 52 miles on his 52nd birthday;
  
• He has logged more than 130,000 miles in his lifetime (to date);
  
• McGillivray directed or consulted on over 800 events;
  
• He has given more than 1,500 motivational speeches to audiences throughout the U.S. and the world;
  
• McGillivray is owner and President of Dave McGillivray Sports Enterprises, Inc. For 25 years, "DMSE," as its known, has produced mass-participatory atheletic events nationally and internationally;
  
• More than $50 million has been raised for charity through both McGillivray's personal efforts and by events his company has managed;
  
• Road Race Management and Running times Magazine named McGillivray Race Director of the Year in 2000;
  
• McGillivray was inducted into the Running USA Hall of Champions in January 2005. The Hall of Champions is intended to celebrate members of the running industry who have made exceptional contributions to the development of the sport;
  
• He created The DMSE Children's Fitness Foundation, a non-profit aimed at ending childhood obesity by funding and developing programs to inspire and cultivate a generation of healthy and successful children;
  
• McGillivray authored The Last Pick, with Linda Glass Fechter, which chronicles his career while motivating and inspiring the reader to never underestimate their own ability, to set goals and to achieve what is thought to be the impossible;
  
• He was awarded the Lazarus House "Christ the Servant Award" in 2006 for continuous dedication to the unloved and forgotten who are served by the Lazarus House Ministries;
  
• He completed a 24-hour run (120 miles), bike (385 miles), and swim (27 miles).

My roommate told me the story of Rosie Ruiz during our afternoon long run. She was the first woman to cross the finish line in the Boston Marathon held on April 21, 1980, but I hardly consider her a marathon "champion." She had achieved the third fastest time ever recorded for a female runner (two hours, thirty-one minutes, and fifty-six seconds) by cheating! She had apparently hopped on the subway midway through the race. The famous disappearing act became somewhat obvious when camera footage revealed that she was absent from most of of the race. Further investigation revealed that Rosie also cheated to win the New York Marathon at an earlier date. Officials stripped her of her Boston victory and awarded the title to the real winner, Jackie Gareau.


A blog post about marathon champions just isn't complete without mentioning Jack Fultz. He won the 1976 Boston Marathon with an official time of 2:20:19. The temperature reached 100 degrees during Jack's race, which makes his triumphant finish even more impressive!

Jack has not only finished the Boston Marathon in first place but, in 1995, added the distinction of finishing last together with Dave McGillivray.

Jack Fultz is now an instructor of sport psychology at Tufts University, a fitness consultant and personal coach, and running coach to the 2008 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge!

In 1996, Fultz was inducted into the DC Road Runners Hall of Fame.

In the October issue of Boston magazine, Dunkin' Donuts acknowledged Jack as a Bostonian who helps this city run. Dunkin' Donuts treated Jack and members of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to an assortment of Dunkin' Breakfast treats and coffee. Jack's involvement with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge displays his enthusiasm for supporting active members of the community in their efforts to raise funds and awareness on behalf of Dana-Farber.

Go Kate(s)

My alarm clock went off multiple times this morning starting at 5:45am to wake me up for my routine run with the Heartbreak Hill Striders. I jumped out of bed to turn off the fourth alarm and immediately climbed back into bed for a bit of extra warmth and relaxation. I hope Pete wasn't waiting outside for me with yellow Powerade and bananas because I didn't actually get out of bed until after 10am! My apologies, Pete!

After only six hours of procrastinating, I laced up my Asics. Kate decided to join me on my long run today. We took the D-line outbound to the Woodland stop and ran along the actual Boston Marathon route. We stopped for a quick drink at the Fire Station on the corner of Washington and Commonwealth and pressed on towards the finish line in Copley Square.

Heartbreak Hill was a cinch this afternoon! I usually have to trick myself into thinking that Newton's "rolling hills" are a piece of cake, but I managed to tackle them with ease because I had such a positive attitude today. I'm learning more and more that running is a total mind game. I'm confident that my body is ready for the challenge, but I still need to train my brain to withstand five hours of running. I really struggled with the hills last week because I perceived them to be much more difficult than they actually are. It's important to remember that running a marathon is a challenging but manageable goal.

I was tempted to post a map of my running route today, but I didn't want anyone to see where Katherine and Pete live. During my run, I decided to pay them a quick visit. As long as Katherine doesn't read this post, she'll be surprised to find a nice, sweaty note on her Mercury Mystique in the morning!

Kate and I turned left onto Beacon Street and continued to run towards Coolidge Corner. My running partner turned right at the Wine Cellar, while I ran towards Kenmore Square. I passed Eastern Standard and dodged the crazy, Christmas shoppers as I flew by the shops on Boylston Street. It's nice running in the city because of the many distractions, but it's important to beware of oncoming traffic. It worries me to see runners with their Ipods in the city. Anyhow, I ran to the Arlington stop, wandered around City Sports for a few minutes, and rushed home to some chicken noodle soup from the New England Soup Factory.

Today was my longest run ever at ten miles! I'd also like to congratulate Kate for hitting the 200 mile mark this afternoon! Go Kate(s)!

Thanksgiving Turkey Trot

Last year at this time, I struggled through a 5K turkey trot with Maureen. Today, I completed a route equivalent to the Falmouth Road Race in just over an hour. It was so much easier to run knowing that a HUGE Thanksgiving meal would be waiting for me when I got home. My dad drove me to the start of the route, and dropped me off at the West Boylston High School. He was definitely concerned about my safety because he offered to steal one of the extra-large orange vests that the bus monitors wear at Laidlaw. I appreciated the offer, but politely explained that I might as well run with a parachute.

My dad's words of wisdom rang out loud and clear as I started my run: "Look both ways before you cross the street." "Pretend all the drivers on the road are drunk." "Leaves can be just as slippery as ice."

I ran by the West Boylston football game just in time to see my alma mater get a touchdown. Go Lions! I turned right on Prospect Street and up the hill past Emily's house. It was sort of fun to reminisce about old friends during my run because it took my mind off the workout. I flew by the Wachusett Country Club and under the highway. I had taken my hat off towards the start of my run, but I was tempted to put it back on when I ran under the bridge with all the birds. I took a left on East Mountain Street and a sharp right on Burncoat. At this point in my run, I focused on two things: a) the downhill at Burncoat High School and b) Mom's homecooking. I could smell the turkey ahead! With each step, I envisioned stuffing, yams, and corn. I picked up the pace! Turkey, step, potatoes, step, cranberry sauce! If the marathon were on Thanksgiving, I'd probably set a world record. Burncoat turned to Lincoln. Only twenty-two stairs stood between me and my pie. I climbed the stairs like a champion and arrived at home just in time for a quick shower and a Thanksgiving feast!

0 Miles

I've recently received multiple requests to write a little blurb each day about my workouts. It's for this reason that I created my training table. After a run, I record it on the table for your viewing pleasure. I've been told, however, that this doesn't satisfy your curiosity about my marathon training. You want the dirt, the scoop, the gossip! How was I supposed to know that you would include my blog in your daily reading? In any case, I'm glad to hear that you're intrigued by my progress towards the marathon, so I will make every effort to blog about my daily workouts (as long as you promise to sponsor me)!

Today, I ran zero miles. I was tempted to go for a run this morning because two wonderful people volunteered to sponsor my run in the 2008 Boston Marathon at one dollar per mile that I run in training! It's important, however, for me to work in at least one rest day each week to allow my muscles to recover from the previous week of running. This also gives me one glorious morning to sleep in before work, which doesn't explain why I woke up at 6:30am to blog about how I didn't run today.

Look forward to future posts titled "Gloves Or No Gloves?" and "Today Was Cold...But I Ran."

My Running Library

About Dana-Farber and The Claudia Adams Barr Program

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is one of the world's preeminent cancer treatment and research facilities. It provides expert, compassionate care to cancer patient of all ages, and advances the development of future cures through research. The Institute is affiliated with Harvard Medical School and provides training for physicians and scientists.

The Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge (DFMC) allows people running in the Boston Marathon to raise money for the benefit of the Claudia Adams Barr Program in innovative basic cancer research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The DFMC team consists of over 500 runners of all ages and backgrounds. This year DFMC aims to raise $4.5 million, 100% of which will be directed to the Barr Program.

First Timers Meeting

The First Timers Meeting was held at the Mount Auburn Club in Watertown, Massachusetts. This was a chance to meet almost one hundred other first time marathoners for Dana-Farber. We went for a scenic, four mile run along the Charles River and were treated to a feast of bagels, fresh fruit, and yoghurt. I ran with Sarah, Hillary, and Keegan most of the way, but finished the workout with Jenny and Molly. Jenny is running in memory of a classmate who died some years ago, and Molly is running in support of a six year old relative who is currently being treated at Dana-Farber.

We broke into small groups during the speaking program for brief introductions. We were each asked a series of questions, and I actually learned a lot about a few of my teammates. One woman is running in memory of her aunt. She likened her aunt to "her sister, her mother, and her best friend. " Another woman and fellow figure skater is running because she "knows too many people who have died from cancer," and she rattled off a list of friends and family members who will forever be in her memory. I met Chris, who used to work as the Assistant Director of Special Events at Dana-Farber. He has since taken a job in marketing and sponsorships at New Balance, but he's running for reasons similar to mine.

I'm running for Dana-Farber in an attempt to connect to its mission on a deeper level. I am extremely lucky to be able to report that I don't have any close family or friends who have died from cancer. My Aunt Joan survived breast cancer, but she maintained such a great attitude throughout her treatment. I remember she asked me if I thought her hair would grow back the same color because was hoping to be a redhead! Patti Cutting is another breast cancer survivor. She's a wonderful skating coach at the Lake Avenue arena in Worcester, Massachusetts. She's been a long time mentor and a major inspiration in my life. I hope to be able to connect with her over the holidays.

It can be difficult to fully comprehend the magnitude of Dana-Farber's mission from my office in Brookline. Since we're not located at the Institute, we do not interact with the patients and doctors on a regular basis. It's partially for this reason that I decided to attend Dana-Farber events. Last year, I assisted the Dana-Farber marathoners back to their hotel, and so many of them opened up to me after their run. I spoke to cancer survivors who didn't know if they'd be able to finish the marathon. Some individuals were extremely emotional after crossing the finish line because their run was a tribute to a Dana-Farber patient who is no longer with them. The multiple walks from the finish line to the hotel was a motivational experience, and I can't wait to represent Dana-Farber and its mission on April 21, 2008!

After we got to know a few of our teammates at the First Timers Meeting, we heard from Jack Fultz, 1976 Marathon Champion. He's the DFMC coach, and he offered a wealth of information on everything from crosstraining to clothing to injuries. He's a tremendous asset to our team! We also heard from the DFMC fundraising coaches and Jan Ross. One of my teammates asked an event compliance-related question, so Jan introduced me to the team as an expert in event compliance matters.

We concluded the meeting by signing a banner for a little girl named Lia who is currently battling cancer. She's about to go in for her second transplant. My fundraising goal of ten thousand dollars doesn't seem like very much in the grand scheme of cancer research, but it might help to keep Lia and others alive.

Nova Marathon Challenge

Last weekend, Rorie told me about the Team Nova Marathon Challenge:

In the summer of 2006, an assortment of very different individuals came together to form a quirky sports team. Not one of them was a hard-core runner; some couldn't even make it through a mile, yet all were determined to train for the Boston Marathon. —Susan K. Lewis

I watched the entire series in a single sitting after a short, three mile run on the treadmill at the BHAC. Talk about a happening Saturday night! Unlike most of the runners in the show, I have been an active individual for most of my life, which puts me at a bit of an advantage going into my training. I'm also pleased to report that I don't have a smoking habit to hurdle during my workouts. The fourth episode brought me back to reality when Nova displayed some nasty images of one runner's blisters. I actually encountered bloody feet after two of my runs last week, and it reminded me of my former life as a figure skater. My feet haven't seen blisters this bad since the last time I broke in a pair of silver stars at the age of fourteen. It appears that there are some similarities between figure skating and track after all!

I'm about to complete my sixth week of marathon training tomorrow, and I've got the "battle wounds" to prove it. The scrapes and scars that accompany the training, however, are totally worth it! I feel strong. I feel healthy. I feel like I can run a marathon!

It was fun to see the Nova runners cross the finish line in the final episode because I know that I'll be there in just a few months for Dana-Farber. Watch for the orange singlets at:

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/marathon/program.html

A Letter to My Neighbors...

October 31, 2007


Dear Neighbor,

Happy Halloween! My name is Katy Counihan, and I recently moved into the neighborhood! Perhaps you’ve seen me running past your house during an early morning long run?

I graduated from UMass Amherst in 2005, and accepted a position at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and The Jimmy Fund in 2006 to gain experience in event management. I have since, however, become extremely passionate about our mission at Dana-Farber, and I truly believe that Dana-Farber will develop a cure for cancer in my lifetime!

I’m writing today to ask for your help in the fight against cancer. I have been selected to run the 2008 Boston Marathon as a member of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Team (DFMC). This will be my first marathon, and my goal is to raise $10,000 for the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research located at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. We have all been affected by cancer either physically or through a loved one, and it’s about time that we end this terrible disease!

If you would like to support my 26.2 mile quest for Dana-Farber via credit card, please visit my website at http://kcounihan.blogspot.com and click on the link on the left side of the page. If check is preferable, please make it payable to “Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge” and mail it to the following address at your convenience: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Attn: Kathryn Counihan, 10 Brookline Place West, 6th Floor, Brookline, Massachusetts 02445.

I would also like to invite you to send me the names of any cancer survivors and/or victims whom you would like to honor, and I will proudly wear their names on my singlet on marathon day in the spirit of their courage.

Thank you for taking time to read this letter! I am hoping, with your help, to reach my fundraising goal and I am wholeheartedly grateful for whatever support you might give. Please remember that no gift is too small (or too large) – every dollar is truly appreciated! It is also important to note that 100% of your contribution will go directly to cancer research. I have already started training and can’t wait to cross that finish line! Feel free to pass this opportunity on to others who may be interested, and thank you so very much for supporting DFMC! I look forward to hearing from you!

Sincerely,


Katy Counihan

P.S. I’m also a recently retired professional figure skater for Disney on Ice, and I would like to offer you or your child a ½ hour private ice skating lesson in exchange for a $50 gift to DFMC. If you are interested, please contact me via email at kathryn_counihan@dfci.harvard.edu. Lessons will be provided based on availability. Many thanks!

"Plan Your Work...Work Your Plan"

DATE	MILES (Goal/Actual)	TIME	PACE	ACTIVITY NOTES
Sunday, 10/28/07	6.0/6.0	1:00:00	10:00	48F, Sunny, 7am, HHS (3)
Monday, 10/29/07	---	40:00	---	Arc Trainer, 7:30pm
Tuesday, 10/30/07	3.0/3.0	29:50	10:00	40F, Sunny, 7am, Rt. 9 (4)
Wednesday, 10/31/07	---	---	---	Rest
Thursday, 11/1/07	6.0/6.1	1:01:30	10:00	55F, Sunny, 6:40am, JP (2)
Friday, 11/2/07	---	00:00	---	Arc Trainer, 7am
Saturday, 11/3/07	3.0/3.0	30:00	10:00	11am, BHAC (3)
Sunday, 11/4/07	7.0/8.0	1:32:00	10:00	40F, Sunny, 7am, HHS (2)
Monday, 11/5/07	---	00:00	---	Arc Trainer, 7:30pm
Tuesday, 11/6/07	3.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest, Blisters
Wednesday, 11/7/07	0.0/3.0	30:00	10:00	7:30am, BHAC (2)
Thursday, 11/8/07	6.0/6.0	54:00	9:00	31F, Sunny, 7:10am, Rt. 9 (1)
Friday, 11/9/07	---	00:00	---	Arc Trainer, 7am
Saturday, 11/10/07	3.0/3.0	35:00	11:00	5pm, BHAC, Steep Incline (1)
Sunday, 11/11/07	8.0/8.0	1:27:00	11:00	43F, Sunny, 11am, HHS (3)
Monday, 11/12/07	---	50:00	---	Elliptical, Abs & Butt Blast, 5:30pm
Tuesday, 11/13/07	3.0/3.0	30:00	10:00	48F, Rain, 7:30am, Rt. 9 (3)
Wednesday, 11/14/07	---	---	---	Rest
Thursday, 11/15/07	7.0/7.1	1:13:00	10:28	59F, Cloudy, 7am, CHR (3.5)
Friday, 11/16/07	---	1:00:00	---	Elliptical, Abs, Stretch, 7am (1)
Saturday, 11/17/07	4.0/4.0	43:00	10:30	8:30am, First Timers Welcome, MAC (1)
Sunday, 11/18/07	8.0/8.0	1:20:00	10:00	28F, Sunny, 7am, HHS (3)
Monday, 11/19/07	---	30:00	---	Abs & Butt Blast, 5:30pm (3)
Tuesday, 11/20/07	5.0/5.0	50:00	10:00	28F, Cloudy, 7am, 4-6 strides, JP (3)
Wednesday, 11/21/07	---	---	---	Rest
Thursday, 11/22/07	7.0/7.0	1:10:00	10:00	53F, Cloudy, 10:20am, WB (1)
Friday, 11/23/07	---	00:00	---	Elliptical, Abs, Stretch, 7am
Saturday, 11/24/07	3.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Sunday, 11/25/07	10.0/10.0	1:46:57	10:41	43F, Sunny, 12pm, Woodland to Arlington (1)
Monday, 11/26/07	---	00:00	---	Abs & Butt Blast, 5:30pm
Tuesday, 11/27/07	6.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest, Conference
Wednesday, 11/28/07	0.0/4.0	40:00	10:00	32F, Sunny, 7am, 4-6 strides, CHR (4)
Thursday, 11/29/07	7.0/7.5	1:11:40	09:35	43F, Dark, 6:30pm, Woodland to Brookline Village (2)
Friday, 11/30/07	---	00:00	---	Elliptical, Abs, Stretch, 7am
Saturday, 12/1/07	4.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Sunday, 12/2/07	10.0/10.0	1:44:00	10:24	23F, Sunny, 11am, Riverside to Brookline Village (2)
Monday, 12/3/07	---	00:00	---	Abs & Butt Blast, 5:30pm
Tuesday, 12/4/07	4.0/3.0	30:00	10:00	7:30am, BHAC (3)
Wednesday, 12/5/07	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Thursday, 12/6/07	7.0/9.0	1:30:00	10:00	35F, Dark, 5:30pm, Woodland to Crossroads (3)
Friday, 12/7/07	---	00:00	---	Elliptical, Abs, Stretch, 7am
Saturday, 12/8/07	4.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Sunday, 12/9/07	11.0/8.0	1:14:00	9:15	32F, Cloudy, 10:30am, HHS (4)
Monday, 12/10/07	---	30:00	---	Abs & Butt Blast, Elliptical, 5:30pm (2)
Tuesday, 12/11/07	6.0/6.0	1:00:00	10:00	6pm, BHAC (3)
Wednesday, 12/12/07	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Thursday, 12/13/07	9.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest, Blizzard
Friday, 12/14/07	---	00:00	---	Arc Trainer, 7am
Saturday, 12/15/07	10.0/11.0	1:20:00	10:00	18F, Sunny, 2pm, HHS w/ Keegan and Kate (2)
Sunday, 12/16/07	3.0/0.0	00:00	00:0	Rest, Blizzard
Monday, 12/17/07	---	2:00:00	---	8pm, Elliptical and Swimming, Sports Club LA
Tuesday, 12/18/07	6.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Wednesday, 12/19/07	6.0/6.0	1:00:00	10:00	7am, BHAC (3)
Sunday, 12/30/07	11.0/11.0	2:00:00	10:00	12pm, Woodland to Brookline Village (3)
Monday, 12/31/07	8.0/4.0	40:00	10:00	3pm, BHAC (2)
Tuesday, 1/1/08	---	1:00:00	---	11am, Arc Trainer and Stretching (2)
Wednesday, 1/2/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Thursday, 1/3/08	9.0/8.0	1:20:00	10:00	5F, Dark, 6pm, Crossroads Out and Back (2)
Friday, 1/4/08	---	40:00	---	6am, Arc Trainer (1)
Saturday, 1/5/08	12.0/12.6	2:10:00	10:19	29F, Sunny, 8:30am, MAC (1)
Sunday, 1/6/08	3.0/3.0	30:00	10:00	12pm, BHAC (2)
Monday, 1/7/08	---	00:00	---	7am, Arc Trainer and Stretching
Tuesday, 1/8/08	7.0/7.0	1:20:00	10:00	60F, Dark, 5pm, OK (3)
Wednesday, 1/9/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Thursday, 1/10/08	9.0/9.0	1:30:00	10:00	35F, Dark, 6pm, Crossroads Hills (1)
Friday, 1/11/08	---	00:00	---	7am, Elliptical and Stretching
Saturday, 1/12/08	3.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	11am, BHAC
Sunday, 1/13/08	14.0/13.5	2:40:00	11:00	35F, Windy, 10am, Hills and Back (4)
Monday, 1/14/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest, Knee
Tuesday, 1/15/08	5.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest, Knee
Wednesday, 1/16/08	0.0/4.0	40:00	10:00	7am, BHAC, Knee Pain (2)
Thursday, 1/17/08	9.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest, F&RM Meeting
Friday, 1/18/08	---	00:00	---	Rest
Saturday, 1/19/08	10.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest, Skating Lessons
Sunday, 1/20/08	3.0/2.2	22:00	10:00	28F, Windy, 10am, OK, Knee Pain (5)
Monday, 1/21/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E, Knee
Tuesday, 1/22/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Knee
Wednesday, 1/23/08	0.0/0.0	1:40:00	00:00	6am, R.I.C.E., Elliptical and Stretching, BHAC (100 min.) (2)
Thursday, 1/24/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	6am, R.I.C.E., Elliptical and Stretching, BHAC (70 min.)
Friday, 1/25/08	0.0/0.0	1:00:00	00:00	6am, R.I.C.E., Elliptical and Stretching, BHAC (180 min.)
Saturday, 1/26/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E, Knee
Sunday, 1/27/08	3.0/1.6	20:00	12:00	10am, BHAC (4)
Monday, 1/28/08	0.0/0.0	1:00:00	00:00	6am, R.I.C.E., Elliptical and Stretching, BHAC (70 min.) (3)
Tuesday, 1/29/08	0.0/2.5	30:0 0	11:00	6pm, BHAC , Treadmill and Elliptical (2.5 hrs) (2)
Wednesday, 1/30/08	0.0/0.0	1:00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E, Knee
Thursday, 1/31/08	7.0/2.5	30:00	11:00	6am, Deep Water (1 hr) Running; 6pm BHAC (2 hrs) (3)
Friday, 2/1/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E, Knee
Saturday, 2/2/08	3.0/2.5	30:00	11:00	8am, MAC and Strengthening (2 hrs) (2)
Sunday, 2/3/08	0.0/0.0	1:00:00	00:00	10am, R.I.C.E and Strengthening (1 hour) (2)
Monday, 2/4/08	3.0/3.0	30:00	10:00	7:30pm, Treadmill, Arc Trainer and Elliptical (3 hours) (2)
Tuesday, 2/5/08	0.0/0.0	1:00:00	00:00	6:30am, Deep Water Running (3)
Wednesday, 2/6/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E, Knee
Thursday, 2/7/08	4.5/5.7	1:05:27	11:30	23F, Dark, 6pm, Woodland to Reservoir (1)
Friday, 2/8/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E, Knee
Saturday, 2/9/08	4.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	8pm, BHAC , Treadmill, Elliptical, Stretching
Sunday, 2/10/08	7.0/9.0	1:35:23	10:30	35F, Cloudy, 8am, BSC - Wellesley (4)
Monday, 2/11/08	3.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Knee
Tuesday, 2/12/08	4.0/4.0	42:0 0	10:30	7pm, Treadmill (Run/Walk), Elliptical, Strength and Stretching, BHAC (1 hr) (2)
Wednesday, 2/11/08	3.0/2.0	20:00	10:00	7pm, Treadmill, Elliptical, Strength and Stretching, Deep Water Running, BHAC (2 hr) (4)
Thursday, 2/14/08	7.0/7.0	1:23:35	12:00	6pm, Brookline Village to Owen's (2)
Friday, 2/15/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	7am, BHAC , Elliptical, Stretching (2 hrs)
Saturday, 2/16/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Sunday, 2/17/08	10.0/10.0	1:47:35	10:40	34F, Sunny, 8am, Woodland to Arlington (2)
Monday, 2/18/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	7pm, BHAC , Elliptical, Stretching (2 hrs)
Tuesday, 2/19/08	3.0/0.0	00:0 0	00:00	7pm, Treadmill (Run/Walk), Elliptical, Strength and Stretching, BHAC
Wednesday, 2/20/08	4.0/4.0	42:00	10:30	7pm, Treadmill, Elliptical, Strength and Stretching, BHAC (3)
Thursday, 2/21/08	7.0/9.0	1:35:00	10:00	32F, Dark, 6pm, Woodland to Crossroads, Serious foot pain (5)
Friday, 2/22/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Cancelled Run (ER)
Saturday, 2/23/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest (Foot Pain)
Sunday, 2/24/08	13.1/0.0	00:00	00:00	Cancelled Hyannis Half Marathon (Foot Pain)
Monday, 2/25/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest
Tuesday, 2/26/08	0.0/0.0	1:00:00	00:00	6:30am, Deep Water Running (3)
Wednesday, 2/27/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E, Foot
Thursday, 2/28/08	0.0/0.0	2:00:00	00:00	7pm, BHAC , Elliptical, Stretching (2 hrs)
Friday, 2/29/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E, Foot
Saturday, 3/1/08	1.0/1.0	10:00	10:00	9am, BHAC , Treadmill, Arc Trainer, Trial Run (2 hrs) (3)
Sunday, 3/2/08	6.0/6.0	1:10:00	11:00	45F, Sunny, 8am, Reservoir Run, Elliptical, and Arc Trainer for 2 additional hrs. (3)
Monday, 3/3/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Knee
Tuesday, 3/4/08	4.0/5.0	60:0 0	11:00	50F, Sunny, 7am, JP (1)
Wednesday, 3/5/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Thursday, 3/6/08	8.0/8.0	1:20:00	10:00	35F, Dark, 6pm, Woodland to Brookline Village (2)
Friday, 3/7/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Saturday, 3/8/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	9am, BHAC, Elliptical, Yoga
Sunday, 3/9/08	11.0/10.0	1:50:00	10:00	35F, Sunny, 4:30pm, Brookline loop (3)
Monday, 3/10/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Tuesday, 3/11/08	3.0/4.0	40:0 0	10:00	40F, Sunny, 6pm, Rt. 9 (3)
Wednesday, 3/12/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Thursday, 3/13/08	8.0/8.0	1:20:00	10:00	32F, Dark, 6pm, Woodland to Crossroads (2)
Friday, 3/14/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Saturday, 3/15/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Sunday, 3/16/08	12.0/14.0	2:38:00	10:00	34F, Cloudy, 11am, WB
Monday, 3/17/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Tuesday, 3/18/08	5.0/0.0	00:0 0	00:00	6pm, Rt. 9
Wednesday, 3/19/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Thursday, 3/20/08	8.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	6pm, Woodland to Brookline Village
Friday, 3/21/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	6am, Deep Water Running
Saturday, 3/22/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Sunday, 3/23/08	14.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest, Easter
Monday, 3/24/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	I love you Grandma!
Tuesday, 3/25/08	0.0/14.0	3:00:0 0	10:00	6pm, Brookline Village to Owen's House (2)
Wednesday, 3/26/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Thursday, 3/27/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Friday, 3/28/08	0.0/3.0	30:00	10:00	8pm, Neighborhood Run (3)
Saturday, 3/29/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Sunday, 3/30/08	0.0/7.0	1:17:00	10:00	9am, Brookline Village to Owen's House (4)
Monday, 3/31/08	0.0/18.0	3:40:57	12:22	6pm, Brookline Village to Beacon to Comm. to Arlington (2)
Tuesday, 4/1/08	0.0/0.0	00:0 0	00:00	Rest
Wednesday, 4/2/08	16.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Rest for Rita!!
Thursday, 4/3/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	Enjoy a much deserved rest day! You earned it!
Friday, 4/4/08	3.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	6am, Rt. 9
Saturday, 4/5/08	0.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	R.I.C.E., Body
Sunday, 4/6/08	12.0/0.0	00:00	00:00	9am, WB

FUN FACTS:
Total Miles Logged Total: 404.7
Total Hours Running: 65:15:57
Total Hours Crosstraining: 19:25:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged November: 92.7
Total Miles Logged December: 68.0
Total Miles Logged January: 65.9
Total Miles Logged February: 56.2
Total Miles Logged March: 98.0

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING HOURS:
Total Hours November: 3:00:00
Total Hours December: 2:30:00
Total Hours January: 11:50:00
Total Hours February: 14:00:00
Total Hours March: 4:00:00

GUT RATING SCALE:
(1) Great workout! Could have run twice as far (if I threw caution and The Plan to the wind).
(2) Rewarding effort - felt almost great.
(3) Worked up a decent sweat - had fun in general.
(4) Heart and soul not out here with my body, but...The Plan, Boss, The Plan!
(5) Thank goodness the race wasn't today. I'd rather be doing almost anything else.