Today I get an email from my old nephrologist’s (kidney doctor) office…Santa Clara Valley Medical Center Renal Care Center. This place was my “home away from home” so to say. I was trained to do my peritoneal dialysis here and was cared for here when my kidneys failed. Last month, I decided to write a letter to them – my old doctors and nurses – to let them know just how thankful I am to have been cared for by such wonderful people…that without their care, their knowledge, and even their smiles when it got tough, has helped me incredibly to be the person I am today. I told them about my transplant and let them know that I have completed a couple of marathons and races and how important it was because at one time, I didn’t know if I’d live from one day to the next. Anyway, I received a lovely email from the secretary at the Renal Care Center telling me that my letter was received and forwarded to my doctors and nurses and that they appreciate me sharing with them what’s been going on with me lately. She also asked for my permission to submit my letter and pictures to their county-wide newsletter which will be distributed to over 7000 employees. I happily approved.
I’m in awe. How could my simple letter of gratitude touch the hearts of my doctors and nurses enough to share with their community? I hope that my story, my words, my gratitude, move at least 1 of those 7000+ to have a grateful heart and to share their gratitude with those who have helped them.
The picture I sent to my doctors…me and my signature pose kissing my medal after my first marathon.
On another note, I saw that my nephew Kalani posted a picture on Instagram. His new years resolution is to do the 100 mile challenge. Now, the 100 mile challenge in short is based on consuming foods grown or raised within a 100 mile radius from you…whole foods. I don’t think he’s doing this kind of challenge but I think he’s going to try to do 100 miles this year by foot – much like my journey to 1000 miles. I’m so proud of him already.
My smiley nephew, Kalani
Today I’m so inspired. I’m not going to lie. I woke up thinking “what kind of crazy idea did you just commit yourself to doing…AND you put it out there for EVERYONE to see!” Yes, I got nervous. Yes, I got anxious. But after receiving the email from my doctor’s office and seeing my nephew’s picture on Instagram, I’m once again inspired.
I know you’re probably wanting to know why…why 1000 miles…???
Simply put, I’m doing it because I CAN. I didn’t know if I’d wake up at one point in my life, let alone do races. I’m doing it because I’m healthy enough to do it. I’m doing it because I CAN.
Journey to 1000 Miles 
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