Sad story

This is a sad story, but an interesting point for me. Even world class athletes have problems, which they didn't know about. One of these athletes (Ryan Shay) died during this competition for the Olympic Marathon team.

It really brings some thoughts to the front of my mind, and I feel like sharing them with my friends and family.

The question for me, should he have never pushed his body that far, or should I be happy for him because he was able to do everything he ever wanted to? I started thinking about this for myself and as a husband of a runner. For me personally, I may have a unique perspective. I honestly feel that it is better to live a full life and do everything you could ever want, than to sit at home and never run a risk. Ryan lived a life doing something he loved, he was healthy and for 99.99% of us we would not run in to this issue, but it just happened to him.

For me, I will keep riding and running and take the risk of some odd problem, or person, or car, or natural freak accident taking me out. At least I will lead a healthier life that I truly believe in and have a great time doing it. It is good for my mind, body and spirit and I believe it has made me a better person to be around.

Also, thinking about it as a husband, I feel the same way. I would not ask, or expect, Kristin to stop running just to prevent potential problems. It is a risk we will take, and I will support her as she runs her first marathon this next year.

To me, these "risks" are far less risky than continuing to be a morbidly obese smoker who does not exercise, which was me. For other people in my opinion, it is better than obesity, smoking, drinking, partying or whatever bad things we do and spend time on in life. Not that we don't all do bad things (drink soda anyone?) but we can do things to limit our health risks in the future, and sometimes it has to be at the risk of more immediate problems we may not know about.

I think some people don't exercise, or do something, because they think they are so out of shape they are going to give themselves a heart attack. Trust me, I thought I was going to give myself a heart attack when I first started riding a bike and I hit a hill. Turns out our hearts are strong and they can get through some strain. So, if you are really concerned about your heart/lungs, go to a doctor and get their opinion, then get out there and start to make it hurt!!!