Just Did It

We did it! We raised nearly $3775 in just over 2 months, and in this past Sunday I joined over 20,000 participants to complete the interesting SF course!!! It was SO fun, and inspirational, I really would recommend it to anyone that is even slightly interested. The power that comes from women and men from all across America and even Canada was incredible. In times like these, as cheesy as it may sound, I gained so much ground from the diverse background of people coming together for one cause. There was absolutely no point on the course where I was alone for a second. Fast or less fast, there were runners, walkers, cheerers and organizers that were ready for everything.

I will post more details later, as I am still tired 2 days after! But I wanted to extend my thank you and gratitude once again for helping me complete this journey! Thank you, it was a success!! : )

18 more days!

San Francisco, we're READY!


SF RUN 9/20 run...

So on September 20th, I woke up bright and early and met my carpool at 6am in Danville to arrive at Sport's Basement by the Presidio. It was freezing cold this early, but once we got running, the weather really helped my running as compared to before. We met up with a few other TNT teams around the Bay Area, but there were like 500 people running that morning from various groups! This is us right before:

I ran the first half with Cindi (on the right in the pic) and Erin and it went by smoothly. We went to fisherman's wharf and back. Then on to the hill and down where the end of the golden gate was. We touched the end, as all runners did, and headed back to finish. It was super awesome seeing Derek already waiting for me at the waterstop finish on another Saturday morning. : )

Health and cause update...


On to other updates...I actually caught a cold the last couple of weeks and have not been feeling up to par. (Hence the late updates) The cold also triggered my new immune system to develop zoster, which is like shingles. I'm sure I got chicken pox when I was a kid, but I don't remember it. Now, let's just say I totally get what happens. It was a rough week not being able to run, even at our weekend run last Sat, with a Honoree BBQ after. But I have taken meds and is actually tremendously tremendously grateful that it is not GVHD. Graft Versus Host Disease is a complication common to bone marrow patients post transplants that can be fatal.

Having to have dealt with the zoster this week puts into perspective for me that anything can happen at any moment. There are so many cancer patients still waiting to recover to get out of the hospital. My prayers are with them and that's why my TNT Team, TEAM OZ! is continuing to run and fundraise everyday for the cause.



UPCOMING EVENT...


Okay so speaking of fundraising, I am SO estatic that I have reached my "minimum" with generous supporters. The deadline is today, but donations are still welcomed onward because we all know there is no deadline to fight cancer and support people fighting for their lives. In fact, next Saturday on October 11th, Derek and his friends were impressive enough to organize an event for LLS. TNT members are welcome to come for free, but help us spread the word and bring friends!!

The first part is an Art and Fashion sort of gallery from 8-10pm.

Then stay and party with us for the weekend before the BIG DAY! 10pm-2am...

Any questions, more than welcome to ask me! I am feeling a little better, ran 4.5 miles at lake merced yesterday : ) while my team was having hills work outs in the east bay.

Getting Ready For the Big Day...sort of.

So last Saturday we ran at the beautiful vineyards area in Livermore and either the scenery was distracting or more likely, I had a running partner, nichole, that made the 8 miles seem a lot better. It may have also helped that I went back to my old old running shoes that I am used to. (My new $95 asics were just giving me pain and no momentum. I got a new pair today that I think will totally work though, hooray!).

If you know a friend that's with TNT in the bay area, chances are there's a reason why they refused to go out with you tonite. There's 3 teams that will join together and run a "preview course" of the Nike's marathon tomorrow and depending on the pace, members start as early as 7:00AM. For us east bay folks, we have to leave here at 6:00AM. Well, they shouldn't be out at least..haha. I hope I can get some early rest tonite as well.

From one mile to ten, here I come!!!

I feel so blessed!

I just want to say a very deep thank you for everyone that is supporting me through this, whether it'd be a kind word of encouragement or a donation. I am just taking a break from my work right now and is thinking of the progress we all made in such a short time, even though it's not over. It is such a warm feeling to know that there are people like you who can believe in the good and trust me that we are all helping others which will greatly benefit from this in the future.

09.05.08 A few pics of my team and friends, and my boyfriend Derek helping out at the "7.something" mile day. The Nike plus said 9.5 miles! There's no way I could have done this alone.

"The question should be, is it worth trying to do, not can it be done."

- Allard Lowenstein, twentieth-century American diplomat

Slow but Steady

What a great weekend and I hope everyone's been enjoying this hot weather. For myself, I have discovered that labor day is definitely my favorite holiday! A little off topic, but I couldn't believe I was lucky enough to go jetskiing and tubing this weekend! (Tubing is when you sit on a really big lifesaver, hold on the handles, and let the boat take you away. I didn't know anything about it prior. But let's just say I got a great whole body massage from the water and speed..)

Anyway, for runners and joggers, this weather can make it really really hard, especially for those longer distances. This week I've again ran near campus. I ran the whole lake ~4.5 miles, in ~50 minutes on Tues. I knew everyone on my team in the east bay was doing rigorous hills training though and I really wished I could be there. I did, however figure out that the marin team meets on Wednesdays for track workouts and that would work for me! So we will see what happens next week. This wed I was super tired, I wish I could have done more, but it was just one of those really bad days. I just have to brush it off and take some time to refocus.

Tomorrow morning Derek will help our team do the water stops bright and early at 7:30am. He's coming in from the SF side just to support! But I have to run 7 miles and it's exciting and always a little nervous at the same time. Some of my team members are up to 10 miles! As we always say, GO TEAM!!! EAST BAY ROCKS!

As for fundraising, I am so grateful for all those that have already contributed to my page. Donors can really make a difference sometimes in my motivation to run. There are days when we would much rather take a nap at home, but as our team would say, NO WIMPS. So thinking of our main cause and all those who have so generously shown their support in cancer research and programs, we know it's an honor and duty to get out there. I was really scared at first about fundraising, but now I'm halfway past my goal. Although the Oct 2 fundraising deadline is coming right around the corner, it will be truly exciting to see how far we can go!
*for anyone that wrote checks, it will still take some time to post. Thank you!

6 miles. check!

Our team did 6 and 8 miles this morning. I did 6 and it was hard, but it's done. My time was around 1:27. It was also very nice to see a good turn out on a 3 day weekend. We all headed over for breakfast at Rising Loafer in Danville after. Will add more later!

Schedule and Strength update

Hello! Happy Friday and long weekend. Waaahooo!

Ok, so I must update about my schedule. I am sorry and feel like I an missing out a lot on the wonderful weekly practices at Walnut Creek/Oak Hill. Unfortunately this will probably be a continuous thing because I have night classes in San Francisco on those dates. (Since I have specific classes to complete, those class times were not available on other days.) BUT, that is not to say that I haven't been running!

I am lucky enough to found some running buddies in SF and we have done 2 runs so far this week. On Tuesday we ran nearly 4 miles, and may I remind you I am only doing the half marathon run/walk. :) hehe. On Wednesday I didn't do the cross training and was quite bummed, but I do need more ideas in that area. Biking works, but sometimes I don't have the bike in SF. Anyway, and then Thursday came along with the heat. I heard 20 people showed up in WC even with the 100 degree weather. You guys are superstars! The best I could do was 30 min at Lake Merced with a bunch of walking. I think my body is really telling me I need to strectch a lot more. That, or it's not used to this consistent training schedule as compared to my prior....none.

I have met so many wonderful friends on this team and I already feel like I missed you from the weekday practices. But PLEASE know that I am there in spirit, shouting GO TEAM! I am super excited today because I get to see Lynsey and Kim for our pedicures! Ah..the sweet life, until 8am tomorrow.

Love,
J

Proof I'm running!

stretches before after ~2.5 miles (08.21.08) 35 min run/walk

For those of you that's still thinking, "Janice, running?," I am lucky enough to have some pics taken by others.

Umm, yea the hills after 3.5 miles in San Ramon. I couldn't run all of it. It wasn't bad, just long.

Okay so I didn't run with a smile on my face the whole time, this was just exactly the finish of the 5 miles. We went all around the Doughtery HS area. Whew, done!

And btw our team name is: Team OZ With a Cause! Throughout the season we would like to exemplify hearts, brain and courage as we train. I was totally honored to be this week's recipient of the Oz Box where I can get some fun and inspiration and put one back for the next person.

Laura presenting me with the Oz Box

5 miles run/walk 1:10 (8.23.08)

Other: I will start school tomorrow and will be sad that I can't train with the awesome Diablo team, but I have gathered a few friends to hopefully get the runs done.

Almost half way...! i <3 this team.

What a day! I still cannot believe that we did the 5-6 mile run today. Well I can believe all of youuu but I have to say, I'm surprised and proud for myself. I really didn't picture going this far. But I've always told myself that as long as I go to all the practices and can keep up with that day's run, I'm ok. So far so good and at the end of the run, Tamara and I both mentioned how it would be impossible to do this without TNT. Go team, go all of you! A high five to everyone that could make it and especially to those that could stay til the end.

I forgot to mention a few things. One is that Alese Coco, (the girl that was my same age, pretty much same medical history that inspired me during my journey), fought a brave battle with Hodgkin's but unfortunately passed a away on May 7th, 2007. A part of me is definitely doing this for her. I suppose she was my generation of Brenda Donato. www.alesecoco.org. You can learn a little more about her and what we are all fighting for.

Also, a few people have came up to me to ask if they could use my picture, story etc., and the answer is absolutely if you want to. Like I said, I might forget some details here and there, but that's a main reason why I'm here. Send me a msg, whatever and I will get back to you as soon as I can. Your compassion towards this cause is something I cannot deny. I would also love to go to any events you may have to fundraise shall my schedule permits.

I'm also so glad I met Brian and learned about the other honorees/alumnis.

Training: Can't believe I did 5 miles. Coach Al was right, it did get hot fast and I was glad I didn't bring my jacket even though I was cold at first. I really wished I could stay with a buddy the whole time, but my ratios right now are still inconsistent. I ran too long in the beginning today without a walk and in the end I had really short intervals.

But overall, gatorade never tasted so good in my life at the water stop and hey we did it!!!

GO TEAM!!

Hello! Welcome to my blog just for Team in Training's Nike Women's Marathon for Oct 19th, 2008! I apologize for taking so long in getting this up. The good news is that I have been writing about my experiences since day 1, but it was on the team's website and I didn't know that others can't access it. Anyway, I will transfer it here! : )

week 3 begins

Training: Today I had a whole day of errands so by 6:30 I was a little sleepy. But once we got going, I had a really decent run with Erin and Tiffany. We did 30 min up to a little past the end of the tunnel. It's definitely "faster" when I got to learn more about Tiffany as we jogged. Now SHE is someone to admire as well. I think all three of us did a really good pace that worked for us. AWESOME.

Other: I just read another Honoree's bio, Kurt's and I was SO inspired! It feels so good to be on this team. I copied my bio here for others who haven't seen it. Sorry if the grammar is off, I space out lately.

_________________________________________________________________

Getting to know Honoree Janice Chan 8/8/08


Diagnosed: Beginning of September 2005.
Type of blood cancer: Hodgkin’s Disease/Lymphoma

Why Team In Training?
Why not?! I’ve been wanting to do this last year, but my doctors would probably tell me not yet. Now I feel okay and I am truly inspired by all the amazing runners, volunteers and staff that put in so much dedication in helping people like me. People really do make a difference with TNT. I’ve been on the receiving end of it and now it’s about time to give back.

If you are also a participant, what event will you be training for?

The Nike Women’s Marathon in October!!

Why did you decide to become an honoree?
Well I went to an info meeting and told the coaches my story. That’s when I was introduced to the honoree program. At first I wasn’t sure because I didn’t know how I could inspire other really dedicated participants since I felt pretty “normal”. Then I realized there are a lot of cancer patients out there that is going through the same treatments I’ve had, and might be unable to come to TNT events. I feel like I can be the connection between those patients and anyone that luckily doesn’t have to go through anything cancer related.

I am very fortunate to be where I am right now, and it would be an honor for me to be a part of TNT this year along everyone else.

What motivates you?

It gives me a tremendous amount of support knowing that people in the community can come together and do something good- something that can uplift an individual that is fighting for the battle of their life, and at the same time making a difference.

During my rough times, it was definitely my family, boyfriend, and friends that kept me going. I’ve had some amazing health staff at UCSF (Dr. Kaplan, Dr Martin, Cheryl Breed, Tom Leahy, Tiffany Harris) and Contra Costa Regional (Dr. Lim, Carla, Sue, Cara and Terri) that have always provided me with warm attentive care, which I admit made a huge difference in my mood swings.

What is your favorite food/restaurant?
My favorite type of food would definitely be authentic Hong Kong style cafes. My favorite restaurants so far would Shabuway in San Mateo, the space needle restaurant in Seattle, and lastly, Taqueria Cononita at the Venetian in Vegas.

What is your favorite movie?
The Notebook, Mr. and Mrs. Smith and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (original)

What to do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Right now I enjoy doing things that I did before treatment. For example, I love going to new movies, and learning new things about my boyfriend when we are together. I didn’t get to do that for a long time.

If you could do anything in the world you would... spend every day in a different city of the world if I could with those I love. There’s so much to see and learn; it’s never ending.

I would also make sure that every needing patient gets the right care they need without the financial burden. I am very fortunate that things worked out for me, but I think it’s absolutely inhumane for someone to be refused treatment if they can’t afford it or to be piled with the bills for life. I would love for everyone to be worry-free of that, and have a successful recovery because seriously, having cancer is hard enough.

I really want to say my deepest thank you for everyone involved with TNT. I will be putting my new strength to the limits in the next few months, thinking of all that you have done, and perhaps in saving my life. Now let’s go train and fundraise!!!

week 2 done already? yes!

It was SO nice to see everyone on Sat for our Piedmont run. I guess the kids at that HS get a workout everyday :T Well, everyone worked really hard that morning, and especially my "guest", Derek, who completed the same route as me without training everyday. I am so proud of him too! The hills were interestingly hard, but the run down was super fun. I unfortunately didn't really keep track of my time.

No matter where we train, it is encouraging to see familiar faces, especially when we do the long runs. My team members are like angels, doing good, working hard, and supporting everyone along the way. This weekend, however, I also realized how big the tnt family extends. I was at a social gathering and overheard some girls talking about a marathon. I couldn't help but butt in and ask what was going on. They said they are doing the Nike's marathon with TNT and we ended up chatting for a long time. Also, on my way to Target this evening, I saw two ladies running together with bright purple TNT shirts. It's truly exciting.

Anyway, I have a tip as I go into week 3: don't procrastinate your solo runs. I didn't feel like doing anything today and finally got myself to run at 9:45pm. I did do the 30 min, but it's not as fun. Alright, I hope I can make it back on time from SF tomorrow for the WC buddy run.

Review of First Week

first week done...first week done...first week done...

So little by little, I can't believe the 1st week of training went by just like that! I would say overall, I had a very interesting and successful training last week.

On Tuesday I went to the Danville Iron horse trail and met a few other teamates. Although our group was small, it was very encouraging practicing with them to start off the season. I learned right off that day that my jog pace needed to be a lot slower than yesterday. I actually kept up at a 7:1 ratio at first, then it gradually had to decrease. Thank you mentor John for sticking by my pace and talking to me on the way. I still need to work on an average ratio though. I also need to eat more to get more energy.

Thursday and Sat went pretty good as well :). I went to WC on Thurs and wow what a team, so many people. Everyone continues to be so nice and supportive that even as my legs just want to stop, I smile when teamates I have yet to meet check up with me.

I have been pretty nervous for sat, bc I just don't know how I could handle the 2 mi. I actually got up earlier than "really early" for me because I felt a little anxious. But I was ready to see how it would go. I suppose it was the perfect distance, that i could do for now, bc I have to say i hated the mile in hs. :D it was a little tough, and it felt good to be done. But it felt GREAT just finishing something so healthy before the normal time I'm out of bed. I even did a some groceries shopping before I got home, and met some more wonderful people.

Week 2 is starting off slow because I have been worried with fundraising. I hope this will change later once I organize everything and send out letters and emails. I have to learn how to ask for help and separate my fundraising emotions from the training/marathon.

1st Day of Self Training

So I just got back from my first Monday self training. You know, I was supposed to do my "easy" 20 minute practice with 5:1 run:walk. I left the house at 7:30pm and thought, "ok, I don't know how it's gonna go, but I should be back by 8:00".

Well, it was tough for me. I tried really hard to run 5 minutes straight, but I think the longest I could do was 3min, then walk, 2 min, then walk. then walk walk. I ended up at a local running track and did 3 laps there and then one around the park before walking home. Overall, it was 40 minutes, but a lot more walking than running. I am kind of nervous for tomorrow, but we'll see what happens!

I need to get a digital watch and wrist bands and I'm looking for any good deals.

Kickoff at Berkeley

8.2.08
Today was my first time meeting so many people at TNT. As an honoree, I was to arrive an hour earlier at 9:00am, but having been so lazy for so long, I certainly was not used to waking up so early. Yet with Derek's reliable support to me, we both got up and got ourselves on there on time. The only problem was that once we entered, I got so excited and distracted that we were a little late to the honoree room.

I was immediately greeted by Glenn, and I was so happy because he's so warm and friendly. There were around 20 honorees in the room at most. In many ways, I felt like home with everyone else. In another way, I felt wierd being so special in an already inspiring organization. Right now, I have a hunch that every single memory I will have with TNT will be just one word: inspirational.

A key example was when Jenn introduced herself and said that she had a BMT in her early 20's as well. And now, she has her "miracle child". :) That is so wonderful for me to hear, because I was also once told that it would be almost impossible to have kids. I hardly ever meet other BMT survivors near my age. I know her daughter must mean so much to her and she is someone I look up to.

Then we watched the slideshow video in the autditorium and I was filled with emotion and tears just like the info meeting (which is what led me to the kickoff). Being with others who not only doesn't judge me, but is helping me in a continuous, positive force, is tremendously helping me heal all my scars. I think that is the main reason why I am so grateful for everyone's genuine dedication. Not only is everyone working hard to save lives for all in their own way, but this marathon's existence in itself, is actually helping me move on. I feel like I can crawl back into the world as a what I consider to be a normal person, one step at a time. That, I can never say thank you enough for.