post this morning. I am continually struck by the remarkable people in the SMA community — a club I know we'd all rather not belong to, but nonetheless unites us on a very deep level forever. Dorothy and Lucy are two prime examples of people who continue to inspire me. Dorothy, a self-proclaimed anti-runner, is running the San Diego half marathon tomorrow — the day that marks the year anniversary of her darling son Owen's death. It would be perfectly acceptable to curl in a ball and not want to get out of bed, yet Dorothy has chosen to not only put one foot in front of the other, but to run. And, not only is that a personal achievement, but Dorothy is running to raise money for SMA research.In borrowing from Lucy's eloquent post, who lost her own son, Jeffrey, to SMA 12 years ago:
The misery of grief is diluted almost miraculously when the focus is shifted elsewhere. SMA parents, grieving and otherwise, are quick to contribute to fundraising efforts, sometimes initiating their own from scratch. Some are driven to participate in formerly unthinkable events, reaching out to others while dealing with their own heavy hearts.
Like Dorothy Shuler.
From Dorothy:
Sunday August 16, 2009 will mark one year that my precious son Owen passed away. One year, since I whispered in his ear how much I loved him. One year, since I kissed his little nose. One year, since I held my sweet baby boy in my arms. Ive missed him every second, of every day since he drifted off to heaven in my arms. The easiest thing I could do to let this day pass is to draw the shades and pull the covers over my head. Its something I have done on countless days since August 16, 2008. However, on August 16, 2009, I will be running the San Diego Half Marathon (13.1 miles) as a tribute to Owen. My son is my inspiration to be a better person, and my motivation to push myself.
Some people have asked why run? Why a half marathon? Especially since I HATE to run, just ask any of my coaches growing up. Running was always my sports punishment. Owen couldnt move his legs, I can. Owen is not here anymore, I am. Im running for my boy. Im running to raise awareness about SMA – the terrible, no good, horrible disease that took our son away from us.
Bill and I will be thinking about Owen and cheering for Dorothy, Aunt Moe, and their friend Lauren as they Run for Owen tomorrow; raising awareness of SMA and pushing research towards that cure. We are so proud of their courage. And next week, we are so looking forward to meeting them in person for the first time, though it feels as if we are longtime friends — SMA does that. I feel honored to know such remarkable people — I only wish it had nothing to do with SMA.