The 5k that wasn't, then was

Amy and I traveled to the Cleveland area to participate in the Lifebanc Gift of Life 5k Run and Walk on August 8, 2015.  So we thought we were participating in a 5k.  We arrived early to check in and get our t-shirts and see what else was happening.  We had a chance to talk with different sponsors and exhibitors while we awaited the Legacy Garden ceremony.  Included in this was a chance to talk with the folks at the World Transplant Games table.  This event will be held in Cleveland next year.  Perhaps I'll be a participant.  After all, they do have a trivia competition and a poker competition. 

The Legacy Garden Ceremony allowed me to have a poster in the garden for others to see.  As it turns out, most of the others were people who had either received a transplant or who had a loved one who was an organ donor.  There were a handful of family members of people who died waiting.  However, I was the only one who was represented as currently awaiting an organ transplant.  I was very humbled by this.  I know there are many more out there who are in need.  It made me realize how incredibly fortunate I am to be able to function reasonably well while I wait.

One of the speakers recounted the story of her son being both a recipient and a donor.  He received a transplant as a 13-year-old, but then died tragically in an accident shortly before his college graduation.  His organs were then donated to others in need of a transplant.  Talk about paying it forward!

At the end of the ceremony, there was a balloon launch of all the participants in the Legacy Garden.

Finally, it was time for the race to begin.  The runners went first and had a different course than the walkers.  We didn't think much of it and we were on our way.  After having a bit of trouble getting my phone and playlist to cooperate, we were finally moving and I needed only one short break to catch my breath.

After about a mile, we realized we were coming back to the starting point of the race.  Everyone else seemed to be wandering around to get food and other items off the exhibitor's tables.  Amy and I both asked each other, "Was that it?"  Apparently it was.  We decided we weren't finished.  I told everyone I was going to complete a 5k and I intended to do so.  So we walked the grounds some more and ended up walking well over 5k for the morning.  So it became sort of a DIY 5k, but we did it.  Of course we had to finish with a photo in the chair at the course, which is symbolic that no chair be left empty.  

Please continue to keep Amy and I in your prayers.  Your support has been amazing!