How often do we purposely try to do something where we truly don’t know if we will be successful or not?

 

As a person living with an ostomy we know the feeling, will the ostomy surgery be successful? What are the likely outcomes from the surgery? How far can I be from a bathroom for the rest of my life if I go without it? These are unknowns that life throws at us, and it takes a ton of bravery to face these unknowns. In an effort to face something where the outcome is far from guaranteed, I am choosing to push myself to the limits in a back to back ultramarathon trail race.

 

I feel like this race parallels life in so many ways. The challenge is massive, the result is unknown, and getting help and support from those around you helps make it so much easier.

 

The Squamish 50/50 is a gruelling trail race that tests the endurance of anyone. Day 1 is a 50 mile (80km) day up, down and around  the mountains surrounding Squamish BC! Not for the faint of heart. Day 2 comes right at you with a similar course; 50 km through the same trails  elevation, after you exhausted yourself the day before.

 

This will be my second attempt. Last year I ran 77km over the span of 17 hours, coming up just short of the 50 mile finish line. I am so excited to push myself to my limits again, take what I learned last year and finish both days.

 

I have now been living with an ostomy for 6 years and in those 6 years I have seen many ups and downs, and feel that it has really helped prepare me for this challenge. As a person living with an ostomy I am used to overcoming the odds, hitting set backs, and moving forward.

 

I am choosing to run headlong into the unknown, I’d love for you to run along with me!