Friday was a day I really was looking forward to.  It was my second year to participate in the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital White Rock Marathon T-shirt Event.  I would get to sit with other athletes and patient champions, and autograph special t-shirts for the kids that were staying at the hospital.  It’s an event that brings everything into focus, as to what this race is about.  Sure this would be my first full marathon, but all participants for the full, half, and relay were running for these kids, and those who will need this hospital in the future.

Since the hospital’s inception in 1921, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children has treated patients regardless of the family’s ability to pay. The hospital relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations, foundations and corporations to continue its mission.

As a patient I have gone through what these kids have had to endure.  I may be further down the road in my recovery, but knowing what they are dealing with on a daily basis takes me back, and makes me feel very grateful for the battles I have won.  I could not have done it without the doctors at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital.

I really enjoyed and appreciated seeing the smiles on the faces of these special kids.  They have gone through so much adversity, and still look as happy as can be.  After all of the hard training, early mornings, long Saturday runs, and overall exhaustion, this event gave me the boost I needed.