My apologies for taking so long to write an update. This is because my running has taken a... break? I suppose that's the word to use. Mainly because a lot is up in the air.
The other day while attempting to run 8 miles in 90 degree heat (it was unavoidable!) - I had a minor asthma attack. This is something I struggled with in junior high but haven't had problems with in quite a few years. Needless to say, it really scared me. After speaking with a doctor and doing two asthma tests, it was indeed confirmed that I did not outgrow asthma like a previous doctor had told me when I was 18. (Can you even outgrow asthma? Who knows.)
Now, normally this wouldn't stop me. BUT - I will be training in Africa - my longest runs, hottest temperatures, AND roughest terrain. In addition, I will be in some possibly unsafe situations while in Uganda in terms of running solo. My doctor advised me to be extremely aware of my body & cautious if I plan on running in Uganda, noting that these changes in my typical running routine may trigger an asthma attack. My last to adventures in Uganda were partly medical missions and I have seen their hospitals - without going into detail, I do NOT want to go there!! So - I am going to really play it by ear. Not training for possibly a month could be a very interesting curve in my plan. We will just have to wait & see.
On a brighter note, I did get a Garmin GPS Watch, which I love!! When running in Africa it will be really helpful. I hope it gets some good use there :)
I leave for Africa in six days! I can hardly believe it. I am condensing & simplifying like crazy so I can fit a month's worth of clothes & toiletries into a carry-on suitcase. Also, I have to pack for two climates since it will be winter in South Africa. But, it's happening. So if you see me wearing the same outfit in multiple pictures, need not assume it's the same day. Because I will be wearing the same clothing each day - but who cares! That's the beauty of Africa :)
On Saturday I had a fundraiser party at my new apartment for my trip. My community in Chicago is SO unbelievably generous. I am so blessed by what they were open to donating. I feel very confident in traveling now that I actually have money for needed supplies when I get there.
Next time you hear from me, I will most likely be overseas. I am so ready for this adventure!
Walaba (Goodbye),
Allie
The other day while attempting to run 8 miles in 90 degree heat (it was unavoidable!) - I had a minor asthma attack. This is something I struggled with in junior high but haven't had problems with in quite a few years. Needless to say, it really scared me. After speaking with a doctor and doing two asthma tests, it was indeed confirmed that I did not outgrow asthma like a previous doctor had told me when I was 18. (Can you even outgrow asthma? Who knows.)
Now, normally this wouldn't stop me. BUT - I will be training in Africa - my longest runs, hottest temperatures, AND roughest terrain. In addition, I will be in some possibly unsafe situations while in Uganda in terms of running solo. My doctor advised me to be extremely aware of my body & cautious if I plan on running in Uganda, noting that these changes in my typical running routine may trigger an asthma attack. My last to adventures in Uganda were partly medical missions and I have seen their hospitals - without going into detail, I do NOT want to go there!! So - I am going to really play it by ear. Not training for possibly a month could be a very interesting curve in my plan. We will just have to wait & see.
On a brighter note, I did get a Garmin GPS Watch, which I love!! When running in Africa it will be really helpful. I hope it gets some good use there :)
I leave for Africa in six days! I can hardly believe it. I am condensing & simplifying like crazy so I can fit a month's worth of clothes & toiletries into a carry-on suitcase. Also, I have to pack for two climates since it will be winter in South Africa. But, it's happening. So if you see me wearing the same outfit in multiple pictures, need not assume it's the same day. Because I will be wearing the same clothing each day - but who cares! That's the beauty of Africa :)
On Saturday I had a fundraiser party at my new apartment for my trip. My community in Chicago is SO unbelievably generous. I am so blessed by what they were open to donating. I feel very confident in traveling now that I actually have money for needed supplies when I get there.
Next time you hear from me, I will most likely be overseas. I am so ready for this adventure!
Walaba (Goodbye),
Allie
No comments:
Post a Comment