Trigger warning: The following narrative again mentions the accident I experienced and shows several photos of me in poor health.
Saturday, I set up and ran a small 5K with some local friends and family.
All in memory of the year that today marks. A year of a good life, despite a devastating accident.
We wore blue to signify peace in this life. And several other loved ones sent me digital evidence of their participation from afar. Any and all are still welcome to participate in the coming week. Label #lemonylandingrun to share your photos if you like!
The following photos show what shape I was in shortly after my accident on January 28, 2018, up until I finally returned home on April 15, 2018.
My broken bones and body went from immense pain to sheer relief to complete joy at finally being back with my family in my home.
It’s been quite the journey. Yet these are some activities me and my sweet family fit in the months following.
Beach gazing, swimming, hiking, enjoying NY eats, going to a Broadway show, and checking out a nearby garden center…good times like these could not have happened if God did not save my life. I am so grateful to Him and am so glad my spirit decided that life was worth the fight.
And so, Saturday, in 41 minutes and 21 seconds, I ran 3.2 miles to celebrate being alive. (It was tricky to mark the exact 5K of 3.1, so I went above and beyond.) It wasn’t super fast or fancy, but it was steady and some gentle slopes were involved, so I’m proud of myself. I tried not to compare it to my old 23 minute times when I was in much better shape. My jog was worth doing, fast or slow. Two months ago, I was barely starting to jog in short bursts.
I am so grateful for the friends that came and shared their time with me to celebrate being alive.
Mike and Maggie helped run the race. My old Islip friends, Christine and Elise, dedicated time to help me prepare sign markers for the run. Elise was even happily willing to share her birthday with my run. My little Kate kept me jogging steadily. Sommer and Steff walked with love for me. Melissa beat me with grace and her son was ahead of the pack. The Eck family arrived, walked and cheered me on at the end. My massage therapist, Kate, was proud of me and her husband easily passed me to help lead the way. Shellene and Phil brought their girls. And Lisa came with Chloe. And, as I mentioned, sweet friends and family like Angela, Louise, Laura P., Catherine, Renee, Mom and Dad, Daddy G. and others sent texts to let me know they were thinking of me or running for me.
Running has always been good therapy for me. I’ve been a runner since middle school. So it was natural to want to run to celebrate my progress.
Now, more than ever, it is a miracle I can still do it.
Chloe and I are so glad we could participate with you! You are a miracle and an inspiration. And we are so glad you are alive today! Much love to you, sweet friend!
Wow Sarah! Looking great! Thanks so much for sharing your progress. What a difference a year makes. What a miraculous healing process! Love to you and your family from ours.
Thanks for inviting us!! I had fun walking and more importantly celebrating one more year with you!! Love yoi!
Sarah, seeing you so vibrant and happy makes my heart swell. I love you so. I miss you so much.
One year ago I did not know what your prognosis would be, darling Daughter. The assurance had been given me that all would be well, but what did that mean? It was so difficult and, even with faith, painful to try and peer into the many different possible futures. How grateful I am that Father allowed you to come back to us, that you chose to come back to us, and and that capable, compassionate medical professionals were guided to help give your body a second chance. Then, I was blessed to have the privilege of spending every day by your bedside for the next two-and-one-half months, witnessing miracle after miracle of your amazing progress. My heart is full to overflowing that you have immersed yourself again in life. You are a beautiful, young mother; constant, caring friend; and radiant inspiration to all who know you. You so deserve the loving, supportive network of angel-friends and adoring family that surrounds you. Thank you for sharing your courage and faith, and for posting this photo-journal of your journey. The capstone of your consummate commemoration of your true race and triumph through your “5K for Life” warmed my soul and lifted my heart. Thank you!
This is such a beautiful and fun way to celebrate your life, just like you! I think of you often and send you big higs and long talks. Please tell the family hi for me. Looks like you have lots of love surrounding you in the sun there. Keep healing with every passing day! Miss you!
You are amazing Sarah!! I wish I could have come and run with you!