We interrupt the regularly scheduled programming for something that is far more important than any babble I’ve ever posted here. I wanted to share some news about an amazing young woman and how you can help.
My friend Monika, and likely a friend to many folks in our online running community, was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor and today she had brain surgery. As scary as this sounds, Monika has been nothing but optimistic and a ray of light these past couple of weeks – just check out her blog. She is truly the definition of an inspiration.
When Monika got this news, she was in the middle of training for The Marine Corps Marathon. Of course, Monika knew that this would no longer be possible and being the runner that she is, she asked her doctor when she might be able to run again and he told her that she wouldn’t be able to for at least six weeks after the surgery, if not longer due to radiation. Thus, “Miles for Mokie” was started. From October 8-28, you can join the Daily Mile challenge and log your miles in her honor, “Like” the Miles for Mokie Facebook page and share your “Miles for Mokie” dedication, or just run and tweet / post / Facebook / pray / anything!
So tomorrow, when you lace up your shoes and head out for your run, make sure to bring along your “Miles for Mokie” sign, snap a photo, share it with the world and say an extra prayer for Monika. Then take another moment to take in the world. Everything is amazing.
Here are some other folks that have already logged Miles for Mokie (I stole the great images from the Facebook page):
Here’s to good vibes, much love, overwhelming strength and many prayers for Monika!
What a great cause, and one that’s near and dear to my heart lately. My cousin and his girlfriend are going through cancer treatment and brain surgery (respectively).
I’ll be heading out to log some miles for Mokie!
Oh my goodness, I hope your cousin and GF are doing well. Sending love.
I totally agree that Monika is an incredible woman and has shown incredible strength!! I can’t wait to log my Miles for Mokie!!!
Page – I am really sorry to hear about Monika and sorry that you and all her friends and family are having to go through this too. My very oldest, dearest friend (who I have known for 35 years) was diagnosed with a brain tumor this spring and had surgery and radiation this summer. I hope that everything goes as well for Monika as it did for Carrie…she is still her fab sassy self and is already back to work and Tri training. I know brain tumors are really, really scary but it is amazing what modern medicine can do these days! I will be thinking of Monika, and you
-Allie
Thank you, Allie! And I’m so glad to hear about your friend. I know Monika appreciates the kind words.
Thanks for the tribute !
You know I have to think that being in marathon shape really helped with my recovery so far. Everyone who came in to check on me marveled at my low heart rate and respiratory rate. Strong heart and lungs for the win! I was also discharged straight from the ICU which is pretty unheard of. Hope I dont get too lazy and flabby during recovery. Looks like my dogs might start getting walks again though! 
Good luck with IM training. I’m still cheering you on from my couch!