Friday, July 2, 2010

News To Share And It Sucks!

I have been MIA to Blogland for a few days longer than I would of liked. Unfortunately, my life has been crazy busy and it is difficult to keep up with everything. I have something to share regarding my running. Sadly, things are going to change and not to my liking. I have been wondering if I should share this news or to keep this part of my life private. I feel like I owe it to everyone to be honest because this is a running blog. This blog has been wonderful for me and I love each and everyone of my blogger friends. Blogging has been such a great resource for support and encouragement. All of you who have been faithfully reading my blog know all about my GI issues that I have been dealing with for the past few months. My GI issues actually started back in 2002 when I went back to college for the second time. I was one of those type A geeks who had to get straight A's. My stomach was very sensitive and I suffered from test anxiety. I was a nervous wreck and my GI system proved it! So here goes.........

I have been keeping up with my marathon training this week. I ran every single scheduled run until last night. Wednesday I went on a six miler and I ran it hard but not race pace. This six miler was full of rolling hills but it was nothing that I havn't done before. I came back from my run and I was hot and sweaty. I took a few minutes to cool off and went upstairs to take a shower. My day went on normal and I was feeling fine. This next part might gross people out and I am sorry but I am just keeping it real. I had to use the bathroom and I passed a blood clot! It scared the crap out of me! It scared me so much that I saw my life flash before my eyes! I went on with my evening attempting to act as normal as possible. I did not want to freak out in front of my family. I did not sleep well that evening and went to work yesterday a complete freaking mess! I spoke with one of the radiologists that I work with and told him everything. I was in tears and looked into his eyes searching for words of encouragement. Maybe I was looking for hope, I don't know. He looked at me calmly and said, "Julie, I think that you need to stop running. Your running is what is causing your GI issues and deep down you know it." Holy crap...not what I wanted to hear! He went on to tell me something that made me feel a little better. He told me that my GI problems did not sound like colon cancer. My radiologist is not a GI specialist but he is a smart man. I respect his opinions and appreciated his honesty. He then advised me to make an appointment to see a specialist as soon as possible. I called my insurance company to see if I could find a specialist who was in my network. They were kind and gave me the information that I needed. I looked at this number I had written down on my post-it and then looked at the clock. It was lunch time....I would wait until later. In the mean time I called a runner friend who had also dealt with GI issues in the past. She was able to answer a few of my questions and helped me settle down a little. After lunch I called the specialist and he personally answered the phone. I am sure that I sounded totally freaked out, even with my best efforts to stay calm. He asked me questions and for details about my history. I told him everything that he wanted to know. I asked him what the next step was. He said that I should schedule a colonoscopy for the future. Woo hoo! Not what I wanted to hear! He then told me that I needed to stop running. I said, "Are you being serious?" He said, "Yes, I am being serious." I said, "You don't understand! Running is such a passion for me...it is so much a part of who I am. I do not want to stop running, please don't make me stop." He went on to say, "If you do not stop running you should at the least cut way back. Your running is causing such a stress on your organs. You are not getting enough oxygen and you are getting the classic runner's diahrrea along with a blood clot." He told me that my intestine's blood vessels are rubbing against each other and making clots. My specialist basically said running a marathon could kill me. He advised me to forget that and stick to the shorter distances. I explained to him that I have two future half marathons on my running schedule. He paused and replied, "You must go so much slower than your normal pace and walk part of it." I agreed....I was so afraid that he would tell me to drop my half marathons too. I have a half marathon on Sunday and I am running it with my St. Cloud River Runners team. I also have the Napa to Sonoma half coming up in a few weeks. I registered for this one when it first opened up and I have been looking forward to it since last summer. I am going to finish these two final half marathons even if I have to walk in! After I have my colonoscopy there will be more information and he will review the results. If things get better with my taking it easy I will know that it is really the running that is causing my problems.

So there you have it.....I am not running my marathon that I had coming up in October. I have to cut way back in order to keep running! This news just sucks but I know that it is what is best for me and my health. I am taking the high road, as hard as it is:) My plan is to run in a few 5Ks this summer with my daughter and train with her for her cross country season. I promise all of you that I will behave myself and not push it! Oh, and by the way, I am purchasing a flipping bike....my doctor suggested it:) I am going to need the advice of all my Tri bloggy friends about what kind of bike to purchase!

So, I am going to jog/walk my half on Sunday and have a great race report for you all! I promise:) I am taking tons of pictures:) I will just be moving so much slower than usual.....but at least I will be moving!

Happy running, biking,swimming and lifting! Cheers to you all!

77 comments:

  1. Thanks for sharing that. I'm sure that was very, very scary. I'm sure there are others who read your blog that may have this issue as well and will feel relieved to read that it isn't life threatening if you manage your running. I'm glad that you will still be able to participate in your races. You are very lucky to have some good friends in the medical field that can help guide you too. Way before I actually decided that I wanted to do 140.6 miles and finally got in the pool, I always used to say that if the day came that I couldn't run, that would be the day I finally get in the water and learn to really swim. So with that, I say, congrats on making the decision to buy a bike. There may be a triathlete in the making here??? Funny how things can work out and I see a silver lining in this. Email me anytime if you need any help with finding a bike.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Wow. That's some intense news. I hope this works out to be nothing too serious. But this is a time when you MUST listen to the doctor, the stakes are too high.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I had to read through this twice.

    Very cool that your specialist personally answered the phone. Sounds like you've got the preliminary information you need.

    I wish I had started a blood clot support group sooner, I'd invite you to the next meeting.
    Bike? I have a Cannondale and I love it so much, it sits at the table during Thanksgiving dinner.
    That half-marathon? You might want to Walk/Jog your half on Sunday. Take it easy until you get that colonoscopy.
    Speaking of which, at least they put you under for that exam. There's other similar, highly uncomfortable exams where you are wide awake. Yeah.

    Overall, listen to your body, and listen to your family. In this type of situation, it is tough to keep everything together. Lean on others for help, that's why they are there.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Hi Julie - I really hope sharing this will help you with the anxiety and know that your blogger buds will be thinking about you and sending you positive vibes!!
    Don't freak out yet - wait for the results from the colonoscopy, but take it easy up until that point. KC, was right about finding the silver lining and maybe that silver lining is you can become a total Tri freak like us ... it is awesome Jules - drink the kool aid!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Hi Julie, sorry to hear about your problems - how scary! But before you freak out, wait for results. Often I think doctors give you worst case scenario first... just in case. As an aside - I was diagnosed with MS in 2004 and told I'd have to take injections twice a day for the rest of my life. I chose to "wait it out" and have so far not had a relapse. Hang in there, and take it easy. Happy 4th!

    ReplyDelete
  6. hi;-) ugh, i'm really sorry.

    I think you're going to get a lot of great feedback/input/advice from all the runners out there w/similar situations.

    I'm super, super sending good thoughts to you!
    and ya know...you might start looking at other sports for xtraining...swimming..biking...;-)

    ReplyDelete
  7. I'm sorry! I'm glad to hear that it is likely something you can control by not running as much or as fast, rather than something more serious, but it still sucks. Take it easy on your body while you wait for answers. Hopefully it's not too serious and you'll be able to run enough to stay sane and also get in some good cross training on the bike. Hang in there.

    ReplyDelete
  8. so sorry to hear you're news, only another runner would know how you feel, i'm not sure how I would take the news, but the good news is that you are able to continue running, just slow down for now. Maybe this will cause you to reevalute a little, still do what you love just not concentrate on numbers or speed.
    I wish you a speedy recovery and hopefully you will be able to continue doing what you love.
    Hugs!
    Hugs!

    ReplyDelete
  9. Thanks again for sharing all of this, Julie. I can only imagine (with your strong and optimistic personality) that this is incredible hard to share... and deal with. I love all the comments everyone is leaving about how the silver lining in this is that you ARE going to find other activities that you'll excel in that won't be so hard on your body. :) And I absolutely love that you're going to do some shorter distances with your family. That will be a GREAT bonding experience that other distances can't do for you. :) And a bike!? Yeah, you're going to be a triathlete. I can feel it. :)

    Thank you for sharing & for being honest with your body. As Johann just told me on my blog, resting & taking it easy is part of getting stronger. I believe that this is true both physically and mentally. You won't regret this at all, but you would if you continued to push yourself.

    You are amazing. I will see you on Sunday & we'll enjoy this slow, hot run together. :)

    xoxo,
    A

    ReplyDelete
  10. Julie,
    I am so glad you have friends to lean on, and know who to contact to get the professional advice and diagnosis. It sounds like you are talking to exactly the right professionals that will help you. Also glad to hear you will do whats best for you and your family, and "behave"! Please rest / go lighter (or do what is advised!) and please keep us posted. Like others have said here the cross training of other sports can be found...swimming has basically saved me over the past 6 weeks since I couldnt run. Most of all glad to hear you are okay.
    -Derek

    ReplyDelete
  11. Very brave, my friend from the arctic tundra :-) Seriously though. Do your due diligence. You owe that to yourself, and your family. If the result is you need to stop running, then stop running. You can always take up cycling! But the world would not be nearly as nice without Julie. Know what I mean? OK. We'll be waiting...

    ReplyDelete
  12. Wow Julie- that is really intense! I am sad for you but you (and I and everyone) know that your health and YOU are more important than any race! I know you will behave because you know how important you are. Julie, I look forward to your posts, and comments, and the things is, I was worried about you! I am so glad you wrote this post!

    PS- if you have ANY, and I mean ANY tri question...ask ask ask...but not about the bike. I suck at bikes :)

    ReplyDelete
  13. Oh, Julie, what a scary and turbulent time for you! I agree with all of the other commenters: hopefully this will be something non-serious, learning to love the bike is definitely a silver lining, we're all pulling for you and please don't push yourself until you know what's really going on!!
    And, yeah, seriously about bikes, they're at the table at Thanksgiving at our house, too. You're going to LOVE it! My starter was a Fuji Finest named Shirley.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Oh Julie, I am so sorry! But, like others have said, don't stress or worry about it too much until you have your test and know the results for sure. I know it is easier said than done, but stressing about it will only make things worse. I'm glad your doctor realized how important running is for you and knew that you wouldn't quit it flat out. I do think however, that you need to take it easy for awhile and let your body rest. Races are just races and the finish time doesn't really matter in the grand scheme of things. So, listen to your body when you do that half marathon and if you end up walking the whole thing, that's alright!
    I agree with Jeff, you should become a tri freak like us! :) Let me know if you have any bike questions!

    ReplyDelete
  15. Julie! My gosh! I know that had to have scared you to death--it would have me too. I am so, so sorry that something you are so passionate about is what's causing your pain. But I'm glad to hear that you are smart enough to heed your doctor's warnings.

    You kick back this weekend and relax! Enjoy the holiday and know that I'll be thinking about you and praying for you.

    You WILL be fine. :) (((HUGS)))

    ReplyDelete
  16. Julie, sorry to hear about your situation. Just hang in there, and thing will be just fine. Life always has a way of working out. Thanks for sharing your story and being so honest.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Oh Julie, I am so sorry!! I am going to be praying for you that you feel better and the Drs will be able to have more info, in the mean time at least you can run, but just less huh. I am sorry you are going through this right now. Take care, Mary

    ReplyDelete
  18. Just read your blog. I'm speechless. I can't imagine what it would be like to be told not to run. I know you're registered for Red, White, and Boom. Enjoy the event. It should be a beautiful day to take in the scenery and the general ambience. Take care.

    ReplyDelete
  19. I love all the above comments! Makes me proud to be a part of such a great community of athletes :) I am happy that you are being so well taken care of by your friends and family. I like you very much Julie and want you to be around for a long long time.

    I am trying to imagine myself in your shoes (or not shoes in my case but you know what I mean ;) I would instinctively feel sad for this perceived loss and terrified of the change and transition and the unknown. I think all of that is pretty normal and that you should keep in mind that grief over a possible loss is ok. You need to be kind to yourself for a while.

    You have such a great attitude and sunny disposition and that paired with a great support network and I think you will excel at whatever you do Julie!

    Thanks for posting so frankly. I want to know what is going on with people for real so I can learn from their experiences too so thanks for sharing so honestly and openly. You hang in there and keep your chin up! Have an awesome time this weekend with your group and I can't wait for that report!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  20. BUMMER:/...but remember that you can literally change your inside with positive thoughts, so TRY and stay positive! And thank you for sharing, I'll be sending LOTS of happy thoughts your way!

    ReplyDelete
  21. NO way big sis! Tell me this a joke!

    I am really sorry that this is happening. So frustrating! You definitely swallowed your pride and accepted this, which is step #1 in dealing with an injury, which is what this is. Keep us posted on your progress in dealing with this. We want you healthy!!!!

    You know who to get ahold of you when its time to purchase that bike. No way swimming can harm your insides. Triathlon is calling!!!

    ReplyDelete
  22. I'm so sorry to hear that, but so glad you got some answers, even though its not what you wanted to hear. So happy that you can still run....whewww. Enjoy your runs this weekend and take tons of pictures. Can't wait to see them all.

    ReplyDelete
  23. HUGS to you, Julie. Thank you for sharing this with me earlier. You are truly loved in the bloggy community!!

    ReplyDelete
  24. Oh Julie...I'm so sorry. I know how much you love running and believe you me I know how difficult it is to not be able to do it. I am sending a boatload of prayers up for you!!!! I'm also in the market for a bike-I will be doing a lot of that this fall. Maybe a new passion for both of us....Perhaps I will see you spectating at TCM. Hopefully things will go in our favor and we'll both be running it in 2011. Truly, I'll be thinking of you and sending good vibes your way as you wait for answers....You can always shoot me an email if you need to vent! In my profile.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Great job having a positive attitude. I agree on the posts that you should wait until you get final results. My doctor always bans me from google when we have had to work through some of my own health issues, so I'd advise the same. As for the colonoscopy, the "prep" is much worse than the procedure and it is amazing what peek at the colon will tell you about your over all health and body functions/responses. Nothing but good vibes going your way from California. Enjoy your Napa Trip!

    ReplyDelete
  26. julie
    sorry to hear your news, very sorry
    but..i am a firm believer in triumph over adversity. you seem like a tough determined cookie and have great support and love around you to get through this
    and you know what me and charlie are thinking..it could be your time to pick up ultras..easier than a marathon and much more enjoyable
    hope your half goes well..take it easy..like the drs orders
    take care and have fun

    ReplyDelete
  27. Thanks for sharing - I am going through a similar issue and let me know if you need to chat. I agree with all the other comments - take care of yourself and look to other fun outlets for the moment. Good luck this weekend!

    ReplyDelete
  28. Sorry to hear about this, but glad to hear that it might be something that you can help by cutting back on running and that there is a cure. You will be in our prayers!

    ReplyDelete
  29. Julie,
    I am sorry to hear this. Hold on,,,,,do what the doctor says and see how the colonoscopy goes. I have had several of those (family history and some problems) and they are not bad. I am a huge advocate for them. I am glad you don't have to quit running altogether. I hope your colonoscopy is sooner so you can find answers as quickly as possible. So many people will be sending positive vibes your way! Maybe you will become as fast on the bike as you are on your feet!
    Take care!

    ReplyDelete
  30. i am so sorry to hear all that you have gone through. seeing a blood clot must have been so scary, i read that and my heart was racing.

    i have run a half marathon and once i did it, i said that is it. it is just not right on the body to run that long (at least my body) so i started some sprint tris and i love them. i have not been injured since i started them as to while running i was alwasy injured. swimming is such a wonderful challenge. i do hope you find the same passion for swim bike run.

    ReplyDelete
  31. I'm so sorry for you Julie. But your health is important too, reading your post I know you know that, and if running is causing all this it's a wise decision to cut back and see if things approve. At least you don't have to quit totally.

    I hope you have a speed recovery.

    Big hug for you and take care.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Sorry to hear about having to cut back on running! Now that you need to slow down and take walk breaks it would be a great time to do some trail running! The trails slow you down and walk breaks are just part of the nature of trail running, plus when you do walk you get the chance to take in all the beauty that surrounds you. Good luck!

    ReplyDelete
  33. Look, I know running is so important to you. But it (like most things) is what you do, not who you are. You are a great person who runs (and likes to run). Good for you for listening to your doctor because I know a lot of people who would let something like that be nothing more than a speed bump.
    I am sorry of this news, but the pride I feel (and I don't even know you really) is amazing because it just shows that you are committed to healthy living and your family. I love that. :D

    ReplyDelete
  34. I'm sure this was difficult to hear and I hope you feel better soon but, and there always is a but, another opinion couldn't hurt especially if you are able to fins a doctor who is a runner as well. He/she might be hard to find but they would know better what running is doing to you.

    WRT the bike: The best bike is one that fits you properly. It if fits it is more likely to be ridden. Find a quality local bike shop and ask questions (I know you aren't shy). Feel free to email if you want my perspective.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Oh, hon, I'm so sorry to read this! At least you don't have to stop running completely, and you can enjoy these two half-marathons in a new and relaxed way (that hopefully won't upset your GI system AT ALL). I'm glad that you put your health first and talked to your friend and to a specialist. Big hugs!

    ReplyDelete
  36. What a bummer Julie! I am sending good energy and healthy colon vibes your way! Everyone loves you in Blogger Land and we are here to keep you going. Relax some, and get your tests and appointments done. Your Doc will help you make an action plan, but don't hesitate to get a second opinion from someone who is connected with sports medicine. Rest up this weekend! Love You!

    ReplyDelete
  37. What a difficult thing that must have been to hear. At least the advice was to cut back and not to stop running at all, but if that's what you have to do, you have to do what's right for your health. I will be thinking of you - and thinking positive, healthy thoughts. Keep us updated with what happens after your tests and follow up appointments.

    ReplyDelete
  38. So sorry about your news! I hope that with all the tests you can get everything figured out and still find a way to run.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Julie, I am so sorry to read this...believe me, I know what it's like to have to deal with illness that affects your running. Please be careful...do what the doctor orders and wait until you know exactly what's going on before you make any decisions. Big Big Hug ((((()))))

    ReplyDelete
  40. julie sorry bout the GI issues. running can mean a million things to people, but your health has to come first. at least you can still run, albeit on a very toned down level.

    ReplyDelete
  41. I am so sorry, Julie! I am praying for you... and listen to your doctor. Maybe it will not be anyhting serious... but you have to take care of your vessel. Not knowing is very scary.... praying for answers and peace!

    ReplyDelete
  42. I'm so sorry to read this, please look after yourself and listen to the doctors, running is great but it's not worth risking your health. Thanks for sharing this on the blog, I know it must have been hard, thinking of you!

    ReplyDelete
  43. Take care of yourself and listen to the doctors; don't make any decisions until you've seen the specialist and had all of the appropriate tests. I know this is tough news to receive and my heart breaks for you.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Hi Julie,
    I'm so sorry to hear about your problems. Although running makes us feel good, you'd have to put your health first. Take care!
    I look forward to hearing about your speed recovery!

    ReplyDelete
  45. Hello Julie

    So so so sorry! I just hate this news, but you are soooooo SMART. Your health is the most important thing. Hopefully, you will get some great news and be able continue with running.
    Please keep us posted, and continue to post from your running/biking adventures.

    As for the bike - I am not a biker, but I do have a hybrid bike. I like it, but it's not really for "real" bikers. Also, if you think you will be biking with friends, a hybrid will not work, if your friends have road bikes. You will not be able to keep up. I have a Raleigh Passage 4.0 Can't tell you anything about road bikes. Sorry - i'm not much help about the biking.

    Take care my friend and thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  46. thank you for sharing that with us. that is very scary!
    but im glad you will be ok.
    just take it easy and maybe concentrate on other things: yoga, pilattes, biking, swimming?

    big hugs for you!

    ReplyDelete
  47. Sorry to hear about your news but very glad you are listening the advice cutting way back to take care of your health. Sounds like you have a great specialist and hope everything goes well!

    ReplyDelete
  48. Wait a minute. He did this OVER THE PHONE? What kind of a freaking quack doctor can make a diagnosis over the phone? It can be a number of things - ulcers, colitis, etc., etc. I agree - you need to get a colonoscopy ASAP. But a doctor who diagnosis' over the phone? You've got to be kidding me.

    Bottom line is he can't know what's going on with your GI system Julie. He is drawing on his past experience - but the same symptoms can present for several underlying (and different) problems.

    If there's a reason you should stop running it's because you *don't* know what's wrong. Find yourself a real doctor for a consult - and get that colonoscopy!

    ReplyDelete
  49. Wow, I never knew that such things could happen. I have been running my whole life and have never had any issues. Keep your head up, and once you get the tests completed it will guide you more than anything.

    ReplyDelete
  50. Hi Julie, thanks for sharing with the group and I can't imagine how difficult this must have been.

    Please take care of yourself, keep us posted and listen to the experts but also seek other advice. You’re always there to offer me words of encouragement getting over my injury so I’m sending you the “good healing vibes” – running is a part of who you are but there is more to you than just this. Head up, take care, think positive and if you need anything – just sing out!! (good luck with the bike purchase – you’ve got so many great options)

    ReplyDelete
  51. Julie,

    Thank you for sharing your story with us Julie. Please take care of yourself. As hard as it may be, there is a reason for everything. You made us proud at today's Red, White, and Boom 1/2 Marathon. You were "far and above" the St Cloud River Runners most valuable player. Please join us on any Saturday you can. No matter what your pace is or what your distance is, the SCRR's will NEVER leave you behind. We are your second family. That is what we do.

    "You Go Girl"

    ReplyDelete
  52. Hey Julie - we just got back from a few days in the mountains. I have had some serious GI issues periodically for a number of years. Mostly involves terrible intestinal cramping and the blood stuff. Email me at happytrails88@q.com as I would be happy to share some of my details and experience. I had a colonoscopy and more this past spring and might be able to give you some added insight (and calm your nerves!). Don't panic and don't throw away your running shoes yet!
    Kathleen :-)

    ReplyDelete
  53. Oh, Julie, I'm so sorry that you are going through this. If it is any consolation, I can assure you that you will LOVE biking. It feels like flying and always puts me in the best mood. I'm glad you are being sensible and taking care of yourself. Have fun shopping for a bike- it's a blast! You will get through this- I'm cheering for you!

    ReplyDelete
  54. Julie,

    It's easy for us to tell you to calm down, stop running, etc but I'm with HappyTrails on this. While blood in the stool is not normal, a lot of running, which is what you're doing as you train for your marathon, can indeed lead to hemolysis, the breaking of red blood cells and their release into fluid. I read that it is actually quite a common occurrence among distance runners, especially females. Are you hydrating properly?

    But it is best to have it sorted out, to rule out other causes for your bleeding.

    Have fun at your next half!

    Thomas

    ReplyDelete
  55. Hey, Julie! i tried to send some pictures to your home address, but I keep getting a failure to deliver notice?! I wonder if they are too big?

    I sent them to your work address & that worked, and then tried sending them to your home address again, and they failed again. :( I'm not sure what to do! Do you have another address I can send them to?

    ReplyDelete
  56. surprise, surprise. I can't sleep again. :P

    ReplyDelete
  57. Well that just blows. I wish I had some advice or something, but I got nothing. I'd heed the words of HappyTrails and maybe get a second opinion.

    ReplyDelete
  58. Oh No! I am so sorry to hear about about this! It sounds like you have a good attitude about it and it will be an adventure getting out on the bike. I hope the race went well yesterday, looking forward to hearing about it. Take care of yourself and rest!

    ReplyDelete
  59. WOW...so very sorry to hear, Julie. Hopefully this turns out to be nothing but a small and correctable scare. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Once you know for sure what's going on, keep looking for answers because someone somewhere may have a way to fix your GI issues. Stay strong!

    ReplyDelete
  60. hey Julie!
    sorry to hear about the news !
    i was constantly having running related problems (especially muscles), and so turned to triathlon to vary the exercises - if this is the answer for you too, then i'd say "go for it" ! I love it - a,d the cycling, not my favourite sport, has become a pleasure - i'd recommend a carbon frame as it is really comfortable, but be careful, some are so good you can eat them!! I just discovered a label on mine telling me "DO NOT EAT"... check the pic on my blog!!

    best wishes

    ReplyDelete
  61. this sounds very scary! but i'm glad it seems like things are not as bad as they could be at least. and you can still run, just not as much. still a bummer, but you can still run!! hold on to that glimmer of hope. perhaps after they take a look inside you might find out how to work with your body and you can maybe even run your full one day? big hug girl!!

    ReplyDelete
  62. Oh, Julie. I am so very sorry to hear this. I can tell how much running means to you. I had some GI issues a few years ago and ended up having to take 3 year off from running and when I came back I had to take it very slow. It was a challenge but now that I am back running, it makes me appreciate being able to run. I wish you the best of luck.

    ReplyDelete
  63. There is NOTHING that I can say that will make this better. Hang in there. I know that there will be a light at the end of the tunnel!

    ReplyDelete
  64. Oh Julie what a scare! I am late to the news here but very concerned nonetheless. You are wise to get the colonoscopy and listen to your body. Thinking all the best thoughts for you. hugs!

    ReplyDelete
  65. Holy cow! I was offline for a couple days then I come to your blog and I am just blown away. I know we are just blogmates, but heck, I was floored to read this post. The news is bad enough already, but then you also have to scale back on your passion. Julie, I am even concerned about your running half marathons even if it is at a slower pace. Hey, you know, maybe you can ask your doctor about cycling or swimming. You will still get a cardio rush with those activities and it doesn't jossle your organs around. I will keep you in my prayers.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Oh, I see that you ARE getting a bike! Right on! Careful, there are so many cool things to buy!

    ReplyDelete
  67. Holy cow! I am SO sorry to hear about this. Just to let you know, I have had my share of bloody diarrhea over the years (never a clot though). I've had several colonoscopies to check it out and they are always normal. Email me at misszippy1@gmail.com if you want to hear more about my experiences and what has/hasn't worked for me over the years. You'll get it figured out, one way or another.

    ReplyDelete
  68. I am soooo sorry Julie, I got misty eye's reading this. That just isnt fair. I hope they are wrong and you can return to running full time, I pray for a speedy recovery.

    And you can pick my brain about bikes, you know I am the biker, ask away. I say get a road bike, dont worry about brands, get the one that fits the best, bikes are like running shoes, the one that fits and feels the best is right one.

    You can email me anytime about bike questions,
    tri_diesel@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  69. Julie I am so super sorry!!! That is not fun news at all. Thanks for posting about it. I wish you the best of luck.

    ReplyDelete
  70. Oh girl, I'm so sorry! I hope you are still able to run some and that everything gets better! Thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Hi Julie,

    Sorry I didn't get to this until now! But, Sheesh, is not running really necessary? I'm thinking it's all precautionary and that once the true cause of your bowel issues is revealed, running shouldn't be a problem. I remain hopeful that your colonoscopy will turn up something that's easy to fix and you'll be running well again with no trips to the Biffy! Fingers crossed for your continued health!

    ReplyDelete
  72. Julie,

    So sorry I missed this one earlier!! Take it easy and try to relax until you get test results. We are all thinking of you! So happy you were still able to run that half this weekend!

    ReplyDelete
  73. Julie,
    I hated reading what you posted. My heart breaks for you. I hope & pray that somehow things will be resolved and you can slowly get back into running at your previous level. Until then, do whatever you need to (bike, as you mentioned) to let your body heal. It sounds like you have a great attitude about it. We're pulling for you!

    ReplyDelete
  74. Oh my goodness. I took a vacation from running blogging for the 4th of July holiday and am just now reading this.

    I know how you feel about running being your release and how frustrating it is to not be able to do that. (I've experienced that with injuries). I think it's smart to take it really easy until the check up, but I bet there is a way to incorporate running into your life post-check up...you just can't know what that is without a proper diagnosis.

    I'll be praying for you. Peace, love, and MINNESOTA.

    ReplyDelete
  75. I'm SO sorry to hear you are going through this (sorry for the delay, I'm behin in my bloggy reading). How scary for you, that night must have gone on forever. Good thing you have such a great network to help you sort through this. Listen to the doctors and I hope for you that this is a temporary solution and you can find a resolution and continue running. It's so hard when we're so passionate about something, but our body just says no. Will be thinking of you. ((HUGS))

    ReplyDelete
  76. Oh Julie! I'm SOOO sorry! Hopefully your specialist will give you better news. I'll be thinking about you. Please take care of yourself!

    ReplyDelete
  77. Julie,

    I just read this today. I'm sorry I was not up to date when we met at napa to sonoma half. You did truly awesome.

    It is okay about not running the marathon. The main thing is to be healthy and not injury or harm your body. I'm so glad you made it out to CA for the half, you make my race very enjoyable!

    ReplyDelete

 
Free Hit Counter