2011 Running Thread

goldlining

No rads here to share experience of.

But I haven't been running except vicariously as I see the runners on the sidewalks. I've been trying to walk whenever possible for transportation as a means to keep some movement but after all these weeks, finally I think the treatment of my hip (seems to be some kind of soft tissue impingement in the sacral spine) is improving. It has been week after week of adjustments only to have the damned pain jump to the alternate side. This time, I was pain free all the way from the chiropractor to the lobby of her building :-/ 

But after two painful days, it seems to be relaxing. A tentative hooray! But too late now. I have just four sleeps to the MX/DIEP so I doubt I will run until afterwards. 

kks_rd

(((((goldlining)))))  It is frustrating not to be able to do everything we want to do.  But it's so great to be able to do what we can!  Hope your pain continued to improve.... and BEST OF LUCK on your surgery!

kestrelgurl

No, not a birdwatcher, but my bike is a Kestrel.

11 rad treatments to go and things are going great! Yesterday was 2 months since BMX and I did an 8-miler to celebrate. Slow, but it isn't about time. Hoping to do the R 'n R 1/2 marathon in Phx with my daughter in January. 

I have been lucky enough to run and bike consistently through my treatments with little difficulty. I swear that being fit going in has made all the difference. I have taken advantage of not "training" to add some hiking into my regimen and LOVE it! DH and I have done some gnarly desert trails and gotten some great workouts.

Once the rads are done, the plan is to fill the time with yoga, which I do not like but know I need. Will see how that goes.

Booked my rooms for Boston over the weekend. Eeeek!

Because I work in the triathlon industry with a bunch of young kids, I think it is easier for me to stay motivated to workout. No one wants to be the slacker in the office and I feel like I am showing the young'uns what is possible. Of course, some days more is possible than others....

Next week.......9, or maybe 10 miles!

PS - am I the only one who LOVES not having to wear a jog bra anymore???

goldlining

Am just a little bit the other side of the DIEP finish line. It seems that it fixed my pinched nerve in the hip! (the long surgery and the paralytic drugs). I got nice runner-boobs too. He didn't make them too big.

Am a while away from running (been in one room for 3 days) but feel great.

kks_rd

(((((goldlining))))) Good to see you again - so glad everything went well.  And bonus points on the hip nerve!

lewing

Goldlining, this is great news!  So glad to hear from you, and to hear that your hip pain resolved.  You're going to have so much fun when you get back to running!

Kestrelgurl, I had a uni so I still wear a jog bra - but I can imagine the freedom of going without.  (I did go without one during chemo because of problems with my port, and though I was able to tolerate the one-sided bouncing, it was not ideal.)

Did a nice longish run in new snow in the Chicago area this weekend - it was really, really pretty. I feel lucky that we haven't been nailed with a really bad snowstorm yet.

L

goldlining

I've done 40 stooped over laps of the ward so far today. After the first 20, I napped so deeply some of the hospital people gave up on waking me and came back later! My last set of 10 took 20 minutes and I hardly needed to hold the rail. Had a juice cup for each 10 laps, like a proper race. I need to take gps to measure distance...

In the runner-boob department, PS advised I switched from 700g (just the one) to two made from one 500g ab flap (which obviously is also no longer on my belly) so a lot less weight above the HR monitor and a little less weight below it.

Adding: have measured and so far I've done 5K today. Pace ranging 15-20 mins/km stooped over due to the belly. Not bad at all :-)

kks_rd

Goldlining, hoping for another update soon

With my rads schedule, I've been getting home before dark and have taken advantage of the daylight to go on a few runs.  I usually start out saying "just 20 minutes" or "just burn off a few Christmas cookies" and TWICE now I've found the zone and just kept going.... two six milers so far this week...

I hope neither rads nor the cold weather interfere with this kind of training. I'm really enjoying the blissed-out feeling I'm getting from the longer runs!

Spinnerpom

You can actually position the HRM strap so the electrodes are in back if that helps. Also, anywhere on your chest will work. Just avoid your incisions!



I'm just a few days postblumectomy for DCIS and LCIS and sentinel node biopsy, and anxious to get back to the gym and back to running and teaching spinning. My family is treating me like an invalid!

goldlining

I'm still stooped over from the tight ab skin and moving kind of slowly. I booked a massage for Weds to deal with the back fatigue from stooping over but other than that I feel pretty relaxed. I haven't needed even Tylenol for a couple of days, feeling a completely appropriate level of pain. My last drain came out Thursday (just 7 days, vs. 2-3 weeks last year for the uni-mx) so that is a big improvement. Stairs (going up to bathroom) are still huge cardio. I went to the Y for a nice unlimited-laundry shower today and briefly entertained walking a bit on the treadmill but I decided to save that for next week because I don't know what I would wear at this point as I am still in front closing tops. Indoor treadmill seems safer than risking a fall outside on slippery ground, although I prefer outside. But the "new years resolution" crowd may force me outside. We'll see how next week develops!

lkctjs

Hello Ladies,

I posted a question on a Runner's World forum and didn't get a reply.  I'll try it again here:

 "So... this year sucked for me.  I had planned to train for a 10K but had a mastectomy, chemo, and radiation instead.  I'm getting back on track (haha, a pun!) and have been running again, though not very far yet.  I still have one breast so I wear my normal sports bra.  That's fine when I'm on the treadmill because no one is there to see that I only bounce on one side, but I would not be comfortable running that way in public.  Even though I'm only an A cup, it's hard not to notice.  I do have a mastectomy sports bra and a prosthesis but I think it (prosthesis) would become uncomfortable after a while.  The bra is ok but not nearly as comfortable as my normal sports bras.  Anyone out there in the same situation?  Do you run with or without it?

Also, for those who have had reconstruction, what kind did you go with, why, and how do you like the result?

Thanks in advance...."

I do plan to sign up for that 10K in 2012 since I didn't get to do it this year.  How is it to run with a prosthesis for that distance????

lkctjs

test... please disregard

Anonymous

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 On top of this, there are several research areas that are trying to prevent breast cancer.  The first is Dr. Tuohy's breast cancer vaccine and the second is Dr. Pogo's work on the Human Mammary Tumor Virus.  These two areas are vital as they may lead us to eliminate breast cancer altogether.  Unfortunately, the breast cancer community would rather focus their efforts on treatment instead of preventing the disease from infecting women and causing so much heartache.

 Neither the vaccine nor breast cancer virus have much funding and nobody is willing to stand up and help these scientists get rid of this disease once and for all.  We need to change this, please help me get the word out.  Please research and send info to all your friends and family - with everyone's voice, we can eliminate breast cancer.

orangemat

Hi there lkctjs, sorry for your issues this year, but glad you've found this group. I had a UMX with reconstruction this summer and I've been wearing my same Nike sports bras the whole time. I had a nipple-sparing mastectomy and now have a silicone implant, and for the most part did not experience any asymmetry issues. I will have to have an additional surgery in early March to switch out my implant for a smaller one (I told that PS I was an A cup, damnit!), but with the bullet-proof running bra I wear, that's pretty much the only time I haven't felt or noticed any immbalances.

Sorry I don't have anything to share regarding non-reconstruction. Perhaps some of the other women on this thread can help. Good luck with your 10k! 

CLC

lkctjs...  I had a umx without reconstruction and I am a size D.  I run with my old regular sports bras with no filler.  I really find the forms uncomfortable.  I haven't found any issues with people noticing me or caring if they do.  So...I am sorry to say I don't have much advice, other than perhaps to give it a try one-sided.  Since you are an A cup, you will be noticed even less than I am...

Oh...I have one other bit of advice...you could check out "breastfree.org"  The woman that has set up the website is very helpful.  She emailed me back with good info while I was considering my umx.  She has lots of info about forms and bras for those of us that don't reconstruct.

I hope you find a solution you are happy with.

Claire

goldlining

Hi lkctjs

I was DD and had to wear a strong running bra post uni mx. If you have bouncing, imagine mine. The prosthesis bras with pockets are useless for my size. I tried one on in the store and it was pathetic compared to the Lululemon running bra I was using. That model (discontinued "the bust stops here" model) had anti-stretch panels and cups that would compress each side separately to prevent chafing.

You can have pockets for prosthesis sewn in to virtually ANY bra and I had one fancy bra done in addition to the everyday pre-made pocket bras, but I did not even need to put a pocket in the Lulu running bra.  The cup came up high enough on the chest to hold the beanie foob in and prevent escape.

I used the beanie  ("been a boob" brand) in running events only (because of the photos, mainly), and it was perfectly comfortable up to 21km half marathon distance. (I don't go farther than that.) The cover of the beanie is similar wicking cloth to running clothing so no chafing. I just dropped it between body and bra and off I went. I had an amoena foob for regular and oh how I hated it. And it wasn't even the same size as the natural side, stupid prosthesis fitter. Like orangemat's stubborn PS, I told the fitter I was a DD and she fitted me for C and wouldn't hear a word of it. 

I am currently recovering from DIEP reconstruction bilateral (I had the other breast removed prophylatically for peace of mind), and plan to do a half marathon -- very slowly -- in just over a month. DIEP reconstruction normally does not compromise the ab muscles (and I was told no muscle was cut for mine). The new frankenboobs are warm and natural looking except smaller than the old ones (yay!) So far I like the result, but am still sore and not walking upright yet, so I expect I will like them more as I get more healed. Because of wanting to run, I wouldn't want the TRAM flap and I have too many allergies to roll the dice with implants. So I was down to two options (DIEP or flat) and so far, so good with the DIEP.

groovygirls

Finding the right sports bra (or any bra) has been such an issue for me. I have found if I wear a good one (love lulu lemon) and a compression top over has been the most comfortable. I had immediate reconstruction with silicone implants and I don't think completely the goofy challenge was in my PS recovery plans!

lkctjs

Thank you all for your comments.  I did not know about the been-a-boob.  I am going to try one, along with some new sports bras.  I'm also strongly considering a DIEP flap... hopefully I have enough tissue for them to work with.  But they don't need much anyway.  Thanks again and Happy New Year!

goldlining

Whoo hoo! One hour on the treadmill at 4mph. That's a good enough pace for the TinkerBell Half and I have four weeks to stretch my endurance. I'm not quite walking upright but it wasn't bad. I managed to fall about 25 minutes in and got belt rash on both knees but kept going. It might have even been a useful distraction. I don't have a new bra yet but the DIEP boobs stayed put at walking pace. I will probably sleep well tonight -- if not sooner! Happy New Year, runner-sisters!

thriceblessed

Need input from folks who've run marathons - Having doubts I'll be able to make my New Year's resolution of running my first marathon (scheduled for March 2012).  Really want to do it as my personal victory over cancer. Did a 14.5 mile run this weekend, and the last 2-3 miles were tough to finish.  I do the Jeff Galloway run-walk with a minute walk break every half mile on long runs.  I'm not fast - took 2 hrs 53 min for the 14.5 miles.  If  I had such a hard time finishing 14.5 miles, is it still possible to finish my training schedule and do the marathon (I have 4 more long runs before the marathon: 15, 17, 20, and 23)?  Anyone else feel like they hit a wall at this point in their training?  Any advice?

orangemat

Hi thriceblessed. I've got my first marathon coming up this weekend (Disney), so while I don't have the real race-time experience, I do know about the long training runs involved. Are you having enough nutrition and hydration along the way? I remember when I was first building up to longer runs I'd have issues when it got past the two hour mark. Being more generous with your gels, Chomps, whatever really made a difference. Best of luck to you on your goal, you'll do great!

goldlining

Orangemat, we will be cheering you on at the WDW Marathon weekend! It's cold there this week, I've read. Hope you have your throw-away sweats packed for the starting line wait!

orangemat

goldlining, thanks! groovygirls is going to be there too, right? I've been a bit out of touch on this thread, and on BCO in general. Just haven't had my diagnosis on my mind lately, which is a VERY GOOD THING. As for running, well, now that's a whole 'nother story... !!

Oh, and the forecast calls for mid 70s during the day, and low to mid 50s overnight. Perfect!

thriceblessed

I'll be cheering you on from here, orange - you too groovygirl!  Everything I've read about the DIsney run says its the one to do!  Thanks for the hint on upping my nutrition & hydration.  I was eating about 1/8 of a powerbar every 2 miles or so after the 5 mile point.  Just got some gels so will try that - and, yes, I ran out of water (leaked) so doing more hydration may be the ticket too.  Looking forward to hearing all about your race when you get back!

goldlining

thriceblessed, I'm strictly a half-marathoner. At my speed (best half, 2:43) I would be eating my windbreaker if I tried to go farther! But one thing I learned from experience is the gel energy makes a difference for me in quieting the whiny voice that wants to stop. I don't know about powerbars-- I stick with the Clif Shot Bloks. Chewing those and avoiding choking is a distracting game for my mind as well. I am also a thirsty runner and I can't carry enough water to stay hydrated past 15km so I am always undertrained! At least I know I can rely on the brilliant Disney water/powerade layout on the big day. The runDisney events are all great, from the expo to the finish line. They have a lot of fans on this thread. This year my plan is Tinker Bell (Disneyland) and Wine & Dine (Walt Disney World) for the Coast to Coast Challenge medal. Looking forward to race reports next week!!

goldlining

Good luck everyone running tomorrow and/or Sunday at Walt Disney World!

groovygirls

Woo hoo! Finished the first part of the goofy challenge! Five minutes slower than last year but I'll take that since I am not supposed to be running yet!

Not really looking forward to tomorrow's full.



Many positive thoughts and pixie dust for those participating tomorrow!

MariannaLaFrance

A big cheer for you ladies who are in training for 1/2 and marathons!!  I am virtually waving and cheering you ladies on.  Good luck on all events over the next few weeks.

Now, for my quick question.  I did my first 1/2 marathon in December in Dallas. It was cold, miserable and wet, but I finished in 1h13mins.

I am scheduled to run in the Hot Chocolate Run here in Dallas in February, and I feel wrecked! I went running last weekend, 7 miles, and my IT band must be tight and rubbing, because my knees are killing me. (outside pain)

Do any of y'all have tips on this? I am doing some stretching, but really need to get rid of the pain before I can contemplate this next race.  I am also aching for a run, but feel a bit scared to go out with the knee pain. 

goldlining

MariannaHB, 1:13? holy!

I had a lot of help from a physio when I got IT band problems. She stretched it out better than I could because she would keep going when it hurt, and I would be inclined to stop. She also required me to use a foam roller, where you put it on the floor and roll on top of it and it hurts like hell, and I am sure that helped. The pain diminished gradually from treatment to treatment. I even took the roller with me in my suitcase and used it in the morning before the DL Half and had no pain from that. Just one pause about 11 miles in to stretch for 30 seconds. I also learned about doing a 20 minute cold soak after the finish and started that there and I am sure it helped.

groovygirls, we're so proud of you! Rock those three medals tomorrow! Hope for good report from orangemat too!

orangemat

groovygirls, congrats!! I woke up this morning to the sound of cheering for the Half, odd and distorted in the distance, it sounded like it was coming from outer space... my first thought upon waking, once I identified that eerie sound, was that if that was MY race, I had already missed it... needless to say, I'm stressing out about getting up and out and on the buses on time!

But yes, so proud of you, groovygirls! Sending you a PM...