Running for Mental Health

This photo was taken at my parents house two days before my son, the handsome devil to my right, was scheduled to leave for college. Don’t we look happy and healthy? WRONG! Little did we know it, but Brendan was harboring a nasty illness even as we laughed and reminisced over our coffee and dessert.

Poor B! Friday morning he awoke with a fever of 102.6, a throat covered with blisters, and a pounding headache. Now remember, he was supposed to leave this morning for college. Instead, he and I visited his doctor who said that he didn’t have strep. What a disappointment for the poor kid! Of course, there would be no freshman welcome dinner, no first dorm meeting, no free mugs and manners.

My daughter also was affected by B’s illness. Being consumed with caring for a sick boy left me little time to help her pack for her senior year. Good thing she’s an easy-going, caring girl! She left Saturday with little fanfare but lots of hugs and wishes for a wonderful senior year.

Thankfully, I took B back to his doc Saturday after my race. At this point his fever was down, but his throat was still very sore and very swollen. The doc prescribed a strong steroid and this proved to be a miracle drug for B! By Sunday morning, he was ready to head to school.

So, this evening it hit me that both of my babies were away. No one would yell, “Ma, I’m home. What’s for dinner?” No one would send me to the store 3 or 4 times because they forgot to put something on grocery list. No one would call asking if they could stay out later than I allowed.

Feeling overwhelmingly sad, I laced up my running shoes and drove to my favorite running spot. I didn’t run far, nor did I run fast. However, at some point during my 6.5 mile run I realized that running is my Prozac, it cheers me up when I’m down.

So, a lot of people ask me why I run. Tonight I can honestly say that I run because it lifts my spirits even at my saddest times.

4 Comments »

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Beautiful family!

Funny, I do exactly the same thing when I’m feeling on the glum side. That is a big change in your household, luckily for technology(blog, instant msg, txt msg, etc), you can keep each other posted continually.

Comment by Bella— August 28, 2007 #

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You have gorgeous children! Congrats on seeing them both off to college.

Comment by Amy— August 29, 2007 #

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What a beautiful family!

I get the feeling you’ll stay in touch like Bella says, plus you’ll send each other great vibes, you in particular during your runs.

Thanks for posting the pic!

Comment by Tom— August 29, 2007 #

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Bella, Amy, and Tom,

Thank you so much for your kind comments. I think I’m one of the luckiest moms. Truly, my kids are great people.

I’d love to see pics of your families, too!
Sandy

Comment by smchurchi— August 30, 2007 #

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