Every once in a while I like to challenge myself. Those of you who know me well are probably smirking, thinking ‘yeah, she’s a little crazy sometimes.” Over the years I have made fast decisions about intense physical challenges. I am usually whole-heartedly committed before I really have a chance to think. Some examples that come to mind: running a half marathon, 5-Peaks cross country races, adventure races (8 hours of biking, orienteering/running, and paddling), orienteering races, backcountry camping/hiking the Long Range Traverse in Gros Morne National Park for my honeymoon (multi-day adventure with only a compass, no marked trails). I have rarely trained properly for these events, but am able to get through them on pure mental determination and adrenaline. At the end, I always feel an incredible sense of accomplishment. The endorphins feel pretty awesome too. Jason and I have completed a few races together (and of course our honeymoon), and I feel closer to him and more amazed by him every time we cross a finish line together.

Most recently, I have committed to doing the Tough Mudder. This race is designed by the British Special Forces to be a grueling and intense 10-12 mile obstacle course. It includes climbing 12-foot walls, running through a field of live electricity, jumping over/into mud pits, and running through fire, to name a few. It’s a team event, and requires collaboration to get through successfully. This time I think I should really do some proper training. I have begun a circuit training program set out by Tough Mudder. It’s difficult, and I’m embarrassed by my inability to do burpee’s, but I’ve also had a bit of a reality check… and I’ve come up with a few revelations:

I am healthy. The biggest obstacle I have to face is my weak muscles. I have nothing to complain about. There are thousands of people out there with cystic fibrosis who are struggling to take each breath. I have no excuse not to do this race.

Even though Sophia will likely face challenges with her lungs, there’s a chance they may not limit her. I recently read about a woman named Lisa Bentley who has cystic fibrosis and has WON 11 Ironman competitions (check out http://www.lisabentley.com). That blows my mind.

I want to be a role model for my children. What better way than completing ridiculously hard physical challenges? I hope that the message they get is that you can do anything you set your mind to… not that mommy makes bad decisions 🙂

I’ll keep you updated on my training progress… and if anyone is crazy (or awesome) enough to want to join my team, send me an email: FavoursForCysticFibrosis@gmail.com