Ostomy Memories on the Run

BACK IN THE EIGHTIES, I was young enough and healthy enough and lively enough that I went out to jog almost every day.  I even kept a log, noting my time and distance and any other particular about the run worthy of comment.  My bible was ‘Running and Being’ by Dr. George Sheehan.  “When I run,” Sheehan wrote, “I am a hunter and the prey is myself, my own truth.”  I bought into that and looked forward to every run.  If the ileostomy slowed me down, I didn’t notice.  I pursued various routes which I had mapped out in advance, and the way my body felt as I progressed through the streets dictated where I would turn to result in a particular distance.  Often, I would be running in the rain, which I loved.  There was something cleansing about it, an element of freeing myself from the constraints of everyday life.  “Some people feel the rain,” said Bob Dylan.  “Others just get wet.”  I’ve slowed down since then.  A good walk seems to satisfy my urge to move, but I still like going out in the rain.

I am always impressed with people who actually like running. I probably ran for around ten years, back in my late twenties and into my thirties. I hated every minute of it! I finally decided to quit torturing myself and started fast walking instead. I love walking and have never been bored with it. It's much easier on your body, of course, and I know my poor knees wouldn't tolerate running now anyway. Much nicer to actually be able to appreciate the scenery and what's going on around you.

I used to wonder about that so-called 'runner's high'. It sure never happened to me!

Terry

I like a quote by Joan Rivers:  "The first time I see a jogger smiling, I'll consider it."

Says it all!