For me, running is a personal challenge. I'm not built to be a runner and it's never been easy for me...and that's why I do it. In life, just like with running, it's the hard things worth fighting for, and it's overcoming a challenge that shows me what I am truly made of. As a physical therapist, I work with patients who have been through all kinds of trauma. To them, taking a first step after weeks (or months) in a hospital bed is their challenge, and every day I'm reminded of how lucky I am to be able to run until I can't breathe, my legs hurt, and I think I can't go one step further. I love digging deep down and finding the will to go the last mile (or on a bad day, 4 miles), because that's what I ask my patients to do every day...dig down, and find the strength to take a few more steps. And that's why I run...for all the people I have or will work with who can't, and to remind myself that no matter what challenges in life (or on the road) present themselves, I can dig down and find the strength within myself to overcome.
As for why I'm running on the little team that could, it is simple. Sarah Farnell is one of the most genuine, caring, encouraging, and giving people I know. I've known so many people who have battled cancer, and it's a disease that affects all of us, directly or indirectly. I never knew Sarah's sister, but when Sarah asked me to be a part of her group and to raise money for Caring for Carcinoid, I didn't think twice...because I know she'd do the same for me (and probably more).
-Cassie
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