Kelley’s Dream Come True

Posted by Marcia Wieder - 130 Comments

Yes, she threw up!  Yes, her feet bled!
And yes, she… well, you’ll have to read the story below!

Kelley’s Story…the fear, the pain, the tears and the aftermath…

Gun went off at 8:00 AM sharp. BANG!

What have I done? I can’t do this. I can’t run 26.2 miles.

In that moment I want to give into the fear and doubt and yes, I want to run…the other way, away from the starting line! But I don’t. I breathe. I remember that I’ve trained. I trust my body will carry me the distance. I realize that I only have to take one step, just one, one step to get me started and then just one step at a time.

The first few miles are brutal, air thick with humidity and pollen on an unusually hot, humid day for Dallas, Texas. I began training in November and couldn’t run even ½ a mile straight. All winter it was cold…crazy, ridiculously cold. Today loomed hot, thick and soupy.

At mile 4, I finally found my legs and began to settle into a rhythm that allowed me to relax and chat with fellow runners, look around and enjoy the scenery around White Rock Lake. I saw ducks paddling for their breakfast, fishermen casting their lines, birds announcing the glorious beginning of a new day. For a short while, I felt strong.

As I turned the corner to leave the lake at mile 9.5, a wall of concrete greeted me. I don’t remember any mountains in Dallas…where the heck did this huge “hill” come from? I slowed to almost a crawl, barely managed to crest the top where a medic crew waited and watched the runners as they tackled the largest incline on the course. I somehow cracked a joke and smiled even though my lungs felt like sopping wet sponges and my legs burned like a bonfire. Then I heard cheering that energized me until I realized the cheers were on the other side of the street for those speedy folks who were already on their way back “home” at mile 16!! UGH! I had to run right past that cheer station into a quiet neighborhood of antebellum homes. I desperately wanted to cross the street and blend in with the crowd of runners who were miles and miles ahead of me. Instead, I entered no man’s land, in the back of the pack—way in the back!

Mile 16 almost got the best of me. I wanted to quit. My legs hurt, my feet hurt, my lungs hurt, my hair even hurt. I threw up and then I cried. I cried for 5 year old Jordan who has Leukemia and can’t run and play as a carefree child. I cried for 80 year old Murray who fought hard to go on his African Safari Dream-of-a-Lifetime trip in spite of having Lymphoma. And, I cried for me because I knew that no matter what, I was going to finish even if I arrived dead last and everyone else had packed up and gone home and even if I was embarrassed by how slowly I was moving. In that moment, I realized I was doing this for ME. I shucked the protective armor of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team-in-Training. Until then, I had trained for Jordan and Murray and all the other honored heroes who still fight every day for their lives. And all that still mattered. What also mattered was that I had the courage to push myself. What also mattered was that I had the courage to try something knowing that I might fail. What mattered is that I would finish no matter what others thought or thought of me. I found the strength to take just one step. For a moment, I realized that I was proud of me.

Pride only carried me so far, though. I hurt. At mile 24 I felt the blood begin to seep out of my shoes. My feet were shot. I wanted so badly to just stop, curl up in a ball, and give up. If it weren’t for the support of my team and that small, quiet voice inside that whispered, “just one step”, I would have quit. It would’ve been so easy to give in to the lonely miles and the pain.  Jordan, Murray, my TNT teammates, my family and friends were all there with me, some in person, some only in spirit. I reached out and called on their strength. I let them figuratively carry me when I didn’t feel strong enough to carry myself. I’ll never forget the feeling of crossing that finish line—joy, elation, relief. My family was there beaming with pride and love. My friends cheered and cried. I laughed, cried, and did all I could to just keep breathing!! What a ride!!!

Now, how about one of two things (or maybe both). Either leave Kelley
a message and spread some love around OR share your remarkable
achievement and encourage all of us…can’t wait to read these…Marcia



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130 Comments

Marcia

   


Kelley — I/we are so proud of you! You give new meaning to I can do it and your tenacity is truly an inspiration. I hope everyone will celebrate you with a comment here.

I am honored that you are the Dream U. community manager!

Robin

   


That is a very encouraging story! You go girl, Kelley!

Michael Silvers

   


Kelley,

You are amazing and courage and strength you have. YOu actually finished the race the day you decided to do it!!

Congratulations, and this story just affirms, anything is possible.

cheers,
Michael Silvers

Sandy Sargent

   


Not running, but climbing is for me. I am now 67 years young and 5 years ago this summer, at age of 62, I and a girlfriend climbed Mt Fuji in Japan. It was absolutely the hardest physical thing I have ever done. It took us 2 1/2 days to get to the top, and when we finally reached the summit, we held each other and cried. My legs hurt, my feet hurt, my back hurt…you get the idea. But we made it! The year before we went to Africa and tracked the silverback gorillas in Uganda. That, too, brought me to tears. It was challenging, as we had to climb through jungle mountains and it took over 6 1/2 hours. I won’t quit my adventures until I am in a pine box. I am skydiving on Sunday, so it might be sooner than later! Ha! Age is just a number! It does not define me!

Margaret

   


Awesome, you are a true winner. Remember this when next you “think” you can not do something. Congratulations, enjoy your victory.

Tina Fields

   


Wow Kelley you are such an inspiration and proof that we CAN do anything we put our minds and our hearts into. What an amazing story and I thank you for sharing it because I really needed a remonder of how incredible our spirit truly is. THANK YOU!

Marcia K

   


Thank you for the inspiration – the process is so well described in this wonderful story.

Annie

   


Congratulations Kelly!

I’ve never run but I have walked a marathon, we find out what we are made of and how strong we really are ….

Onward and upward, never stop making your dreams come true.

Irina

   


Kelley,
Thank you for standing ( running ) for yourself.
Thank you for sharing your story and your strength. Thank you for letting your friend (live and in spirit) to cary you.

I am sitting crying here. Crying ,because you touched my soul with your feeling and beautiful spirit.

Love you and your story.
Nothing , not a thing can stop you now!!!

Go , girl, gol!!!!

Regena

   


Kelley, I am teary as I read this and know how much of an accomplishment this truly was. I remember when you really began training and I know how scary it all was. I am so inspired by your commitment to the dream and to yourself. You are a COURAGE igniter. Thank you for lighting that spark in all of our hearts. You are a warrior goddess.

Werner Berger

   


Kelly, what a story of courage. Your writing made it easy to be in the race with you, to feel your struggles and your pain, and to be in awe of your accomplishment; and to walk away inspired. wwwBackFromTheEdgeMovie.com

Marpat

   


I am getting up there, shy about giving out my age….but I set out to lose 25 pounds seven weeks ago, and have lost 21 pounds and 22 inches. I am excited!

Rhonda Neely

   


Congratulations on such a powerful achievement! You have what it takes to achieve anything. You Go Girl!

Amy Robertson

   


What a beautiful story!! It touched me so much it brought tears to my eyes. It is an amazing feeling when we accomplish something we have set out to do and maybe even thought we might not be able to do! Thank you for sharing!

Earl

   


Kelley,

What a triumph! By meeting this challenge and persevering I want and expect to see more triumphs coming from you.

YOU ROCK!!!

alana

   


Hi Kelley!
I’m so proud of you and inspired by your dedication, hard work and determination! You’re amazing!!! Wooo-hooo!!!!!!
Kindly,
Alana

Donna P

   


Good morning Marcia and Kelley -

WOW! Kelley, I read your story with a tear in my eye. I am so proud of you and your accomplishment, AWESOME!! You are so motivating to me, THANK YOU for being you!!

Keeping with the running theme, I ran my first 5K in August of 2008, my goal was to completed the race in 30 –32 minutes; I finsihed the race in 28:51 minutes, a little over a 9 minute mile…. I was on top of the world, last August I ran in the same race and I shaved 1:04 off my time; about an 8 and 1/2 minute mile. I was in awe of myself, I have never ever had been a “runner”!!! I was over weight as child, losing 95 pounds as a young adult, I have kept the weigh off; now as an adult I have awakened the athlete inside of me, and it is awesome!

When I think of these accomplishments and where I am today, I KNOW I can DO anything… I am running in my first 1/2 Marathon in June…. I can not wait to cross the finish line and report back to all of you!!

Thank you for letting me share and your support!

Ciao ciao, Donna xox

Bette Hamby

   


Kelley,
Your story has inspired me to pursue my goal of running and yes eventually, do a marathon and my very secret, now public, goal of entering and finishing a triathalon! Tears built in my eyes as I read and could relate with your story. CONGRATULATIONS, YOU ARE A CHAMPION FOR YOU AND FOR ALL WHO READ YOUR STORY…INCLUDING ME!

Juanita

   


YOU GO Girl! I share your tears of joy and elation! What a great story!

Nikki

   


Congratulations Kelley! A very moving (no pun intended)story. Thanks for sharing :) !!!

Sheila

   


I finished reading with tears streaming as I believe I know how elated you must have felt and how courageous you were. I won’t forget your story as I try things I “think” I can’t possibly do. You will “never” forget – I do believe you changed your life in that run. Congratulations from the bottom of my heart.

Twenty

   


You are and inspiration to all, especially me.
Cheers,
Twenty

Adrienne

   


Wow! how awesome. What strength you have and how inspiring.
Thank you

RAJU CHANDIRAMANI

   


Good day
Kind Attn Helly

All, the best wishes from my end from the entire family , relative and friends to you keep running and going too

love , hugs , cheers for ever and ever
remain bless – god jesus

rgds / raju chandiramani
+91 9925936678

Jacqui

   


I am very awed, – by Kelly, inspired to keep pushing by Sandy at 67 and excited for Marpat! Although I will not be running a marathon, the story typefies for me any challenge that I’ve ever undertaken. You are initially very inspired and you decide to make a commitment, then you doubt yourself and all the second-guessing goes on – especially when you are in the thick of it (not to mention the negative comments from others and those in your own head! You have the courage to continue, continue, one step at a time, in spite of the physical cues you are bombarded with. Then you are done! You’ve done it! And it is exciting and exhilirating! Mine is coming soon and I’d like to share it with you.

I am still in the thick of launching a business and clearing up past unfinished stuff as well. Both my husband and myself have the least amount of money in our bank account in the 32 years we’ve been married (except one time). The senses are indeed bombarding me with doubts, but I am pushing through – I am launching a big Life Coaching Makeover for someone locally, but also have extras for anyone who even enters the contest! It will be officially launched by Friday, but the page is live now, and if anyone has any recommendations to make it the best, I’m all ears! The page is: http://www.light-r-u.com/makeover2010 and I’m sure I’ll be back to tell you that I’m being flooded with applications, then coaching clients as well!

Steve W

   


Kelley, What an amazing story. You really know what it is to realize your dream without quitting (quitting in your mind does not translate to quitting in your heart). I can tell this was a true life changing event for you. Congratulations in your renewed spirit.

Larry James Reed

   


You have sounded the starting gun for many more with your story.
Larry James Reed

Linda C. Brown

   


Amazing simpley amazing!!!
What a moving story of courage and inner srength. Thank you soooooooo much for sharing I needed this TODAY!!
Hugs from Celina, Texas

Linda Brown

Anne Naylor

   


Congratulations, Kelley! Good for you for going the distance. Now you know you can do it! I honour your brave spirit.

With love to you,
Anne

http://www.AnneNaylor.com

Martha Keaton

   


I have a team of Representatives that you have awed! We are all so proud of you. This is quite an accomplishment!

Laura

   


Thank you so much for your inspiration. I set my “crazy” goal to run my first Marathon October 4th 2010 and I ran my first mile in January. I ran my first 5K race April 2nd. My next goal is 10K May 29th then 20K in Aug, 30K in Sept then Marathon(42K) in Oct. Now I know it’s actually attainable! Thank you. You’re awesome!

Angela Burbach

   


Great job, Kelley! I too am a TNT alumni and am very proud of you and your HUGE accomplishment. Way to go!

Shirley M

   


Congratulations to all those who over came their struggles and challenges. Especially you Kelley! Nothing should be too hard for you from now on. We can all do it if we just listen to that small voice within.
As for me i found the inner stregnth to get up and leave a man that cheated on me. Because of fear of being on my own, which i’ve never been before, i stayed way over my time. I stayed with a man that was married and promised every year when he got his tax refund to get a divorce, but this year i decided enough was enough and i got up and left. I am still in a transitional period, unable to afford to live by myself so i am staying in my friend’s home that is empty for now. Trying to save and pay my debts off. Then i will move forward towards my own home. I lived with this man for 5 years, but 3 of the 5 i knew it was not the right place for me. Now i am FREE!

Ivy

   


Kelley- how wonderful! You did it! I teared up with happiness when I read your story. It reminds us that anything is possible, if you put your mind to it. Congratulations!

Kim Marcille Romaner

   


Kelley, you really amp’d it up!! And Larry’s right: I made a commitment to do my first full in January 2011, and you have inspired me to stick to that commitment!

You are a true Possibility Amplifier!

Thanks for sharing such a wonderful story!

–Kim
http://www.possibilitiesamplified.com

Gabrielle

   


Well Kelley, you really did it! Nobody can understand your elation except those of us that have done something similar. There is no feeling in the world that compares to crossing that finish line. There’s also no feeling in the world compared to all the ‘walls’ you meet on the way; but, there’s also the amazing inspiration you get from those around you, but mostly, from inside yourself. I’ve done Dublin, NY, & London marathons and the challenge you give yourself has to be experienced to understand. Like you Kelley, at first I was thinking of all the people I was ‘doing it for’, & saw their little faces as I struggled. But in the end, I knew I was really also doing it for me & the only one that could get me over that finish line was me!
Congrats girl, and on to your next ‘dream come true’. You can do anything now girl!

Valentina

   


I have never read anything more amazing and inspiring in all my life. I have never imagined the story of a runner from the inside. So it is true that if you have a why you can bear almost anything…And also if you have a who!
You are right Kelley, it’s so easy to give up, but it’s so comforting to keep going. You must be very proud.

paul dominic

   


Kelly
you inspire us. thanks
PD

Kimberlee

   


Wow. Talk about perseverance, courage and heart! YOU are the poster-girl for those qualities. Way to go!!!

Maria

   


Hi, Kelly-
As a fellow TNT’er I’m so proud of you and I shout out – Go Team! You did something amazing and gained so much more, I know. I am training for an event in June and I will carry your courage and your example with me!
Thanks for the inspiration-
Maria

Don Schluter "Elf Owl"

   


Great job Kelly!.You are an inpseration to us al Now is a god time I believe to let all of you in on a dream a few good men ad and have done.Dreams can come true, Yesterday I help file papers for new 501c3 organization we started based on responsibliity, Compassion, and empathy as criteria for membership one must be spncered.Drum role (officiqal announcement to marrow April 22 2010 EARTH DAY the N.W. Steelhead and Salmon Conservation Society.Mission to conserve protect and restore the natural resources and outdoor heritage of the Pacific N.W.

Namaste,
Don “Elf OWL’
P.S. Hada long Horned owl fly right in fron of my winshield the other night and looki me right in my eyes. As Souce is my witness this is the truth OMG what an experience.

Caroline

   


Kelley – thank you for sharing your inspiring story in a way that we could imagine being next to you. You are a wonderful writer as well as a successful runner! You have touched people’s lives and you’ve given me courage.

Toanya

   


WOW!!!! You are truly an inspiration. Thank you for sharing. So many of us are celebrating your ability to LIVE your dream. Your story is causing shifts in my energy in a wonderful way :-) Go girl!

Toanya
From Trinidad & Tobago

Francine

   


WOW !
Bless your brave heart Girl.
And may this inspire you to go on winning the way you’re inspiring me.
With heartfelt love and gratitude.

Nancy

   


All right, Kelley! Congratulations on following your heart with your feet and lungs and commitment.

Karen

   


Kelley – I keep seeing myself running and am doing my best to avoid this visual that has insisted itself in my life. You may have just given me the courage to embrace rather than avoid. Thank you for being you…

Evelyn

   


It is stories like these that make me realize all is possible, you just have to through your self out there and make it happen. Thank You for your story, it comes at a good time. You go Girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Susan Moore

   


Kelley,

You are an inspiration to all! Especially to women!

So often women will go the extra mile for others, but not for themselves! You broke through that barrier so many of us have….that we are not enough, that we don’t deserve it, that others must always come first. You found your power, your worth, your divinity. And in finding it for yourself, you open the door for all of us!

God bless you!!

Ileana

   


Hi Kelly, your story is so inspiring! What strength and determination. Thanks for making me feel that we can accomplish anything we put our minds to. Congratulaltions.

Sandy Froggatt

   


Kelly: You did it…you are amazing and you made your dream come true….You did it….no one did it for you…many many warm fuzzies for you….Sandy

Karen-Marie

   


Oh Kelley-thank you, thank you, thank you.
I don’t think that I knew a strong WOMAN until I met you!

Jon

   


Way to go girl, my hat off to you. Kudos

Christine Panoho

   


hooray Kelly I admired your strength and staminar to carry on when the going got tough… Even though your thoughts were for the sick your heart & soul had accomplished for yourself… It has been years since I last ran a race I came last but finished in the end and that’s KOOL.
In New Zealand we say KIA KAHA Wahine.
means very strong Woman…. Awesome to hear the support of your Family & Friends

Best of KIWI Luck. Have an awesome smily day.

Best Regards

Christine

Julia Neiman

   


OMG! Kelley, this is so awesome. Congratulations! You’re story brought tears to my eyes. Your telling of the story was amazing and I was with you and could feel your pain and your determination. You just keep adding to your credential as an inspiring woman. WOW!

Julia

Alana Lea

   


Kelly, WOW. I knew you were powerful and dedicated and a servant leader and utterly amazing in so many ways before, but now, WOW. You show us all that we CAN if we don’t give in to discomfort and doubt.

Amazing Woman. You are Amazing.

Kellie Frazier

   


I have no story that would compare to this victory but for the one where the weight of sin made Jesus sweat blood. Kelly truly has done a remarkable thing.

I recently interviewed Pauline Victoria, who has no arms or legs, but is a mom raising 4 kids and is a motivational speaker. Then there is Jessica Cox, the pilot with no arms, also a motivational speaker, who I’ll be interviewing as well. Remarkable people doing extraordinary things like Kelly.

The inner voice that says, “Just one more step” is how we all make it. Those who want to quit…well…we’re here to help one another learn how to listen more closely to the inner voice.

All My Best,
Kellie Frazier
dot com

Deb

   


Congratulations Kelly!! You did it!! The true meaning of never, never, never give up on your dreams!

Marge

   


Kelly, I can’t even imagine what it would be like to go 26 miles on my feet alone. I don’t know you, but I’m so proud of you! I’ve had times in my life where just putting one foot in front of the other physically, mentally, or emotionally seemed like an impossibility. But I’ve learned that faith and purpose have made me a survivor and I, like you, just keep putting one foot down to move ahead. Congratulations!

Lisa

   


I like to find homes for pets in almost no time flat when the local shelters won’t even talk to the distraught dog or cat owner.One at a time I focus and apply what works…It is my extatic moment upon each competion…to get a truly good home,and to have made one persons nightmare go away.

annabellebondar

   


Way to go Kelly, your determination,
courage and commitment, it is a HUGE
accomplishment to not only run a
marathon, but to train and complete
and for a good cause.

Good for you!!
Annabelle

Kim Yanuskiewicz

   


Hi Kelley ~

Wow!! What a story of inspiration, motivation & hope! Your courage is amazing … I, too, am a runner & the most I’ve competed in is 2 10K’s – nothing compared to what you’ve accomplished! I know how I feel when I get to the 6-1/2 mile point – yikes!!! You are proof that we can literally ASTOUND ourselves when we put our mind (& heart)to something. You will always look back & remember that JOY when you crossed the finish line … YOU ARE STRONG & YOU CAN DO ANYTHING!!! BRAVO!

Inspired, Kim xoxo

Barbie Gummin

   


Kelly – Thank you for sharing your heartfelt, powerful story. Can I use it in a book I am writing for people who are considering entrepreneurship? It fits well with my chapter on “never giving up”.

Congratulations!

Lydia Kolejo Akinwunmi

   


Congratultions Kelly, your have victory on every aspect of life, you have proved yourself a winner. Your story inspired me and I am going ahead a 5 miles run for charity that I have been procrasting about. You challenged me to take action
Thank you and God bless.

Ivy Butler

   


Congratulations!

Earla

   


Kelly you are amazing. You kept on going when you had pain, fear, and tears. To run 26 miles and not give up. You are an inspiration to me for my business. When I get a negative answer from a customer I give up so easily. Thanks for your story. You have much strength and courage. Good luck in the future.

Sharon Tan

   


KELLEY…. YOU are a true LEGEND!!!
Love YOUR audacity, commitment, drive and how YOU conquered your fear and doubt and victoriously broke-through!!! Proud of YOU.

For me I’m living my dream and have invited around 120 people to come and experience a coaching group called
“Change Your focus,Change your World in 30 Days” for the month of May. actioning steps forward and also experience worry and doubt,, will keep going inviting, creating the package. and having FUN. Sharon Tan Australia.

Vickie

   


Wow what an inspiration! I’ve always wanted to run a marathon, your story gave me hope (and made my eyes water)! That is fantastic!!!

Jennifer

   


What an inspiring story to read, and at a very interesting moment. I am getting on a plane tomorrow morning to go and run my second full marathon in Big Sur, California. Excited, and nervous, but realizing that I am blessed to be healthy!

Susan Wight

   


I’m proud of her, I’ve done it too, and biked 150 miles in a weekend more than once for MS; and ran the marine corps marathon for TAPS…it is amazing what the mind can make the body do. You go girl!

Emily Summers

   


WOW, that is an amazing & very uplifting story!! Thanks for sharing & keep up the awesome-ness:O) Wish I had that in me, you ROCK lady!!!

Donna Trostle

   


Kelley,
you are amazing!!
what an inspiration to the rest of us that let things get in our way…big time!
I felt like crying I was so inspired when I read this…thank you!!!!
All the best,
Donna

Irina

   


Kelly,
After being affected by your story, I want to share story about my son Nicholay:

http://greentoteam.com/

He ,like you, teaching me to boldly go to new territories, where I was afraid to go before.

As” professional athlete in the past” I appreciate your physical pain and straggles, but doing ‘IT” for myself is a -step up- a new level for me, as asking for help.

With your lead, I am sharing Nicholay’s dream.

http://greentoteam.com/

Thank you for teaching me that being a winner is an easy choice!

Irina

Cynthia

   


Hi Kelley,
It’s my birthday; a day that is always a time for new beginnings, and your story reminded me that all it takes is the FIRST STEP!
Congratulations!

Georgene

   


HI Kelly,
Your inspiration of making the marathon a reality is awesome, along with that you are a talented writer. Your story as you told it was an inspiration as well. One challenge revealed another blessing your ability to write. Blessing you and thanking you for sharing so deeply.

Kara Steedman

   


What a fabulous story, Your effort and determination is a huge inspiration. Good on you and well done. I am sure that this huge learning curve will spill into so many other areas of your life. What a gift to find strength you never knew you had. How special :)

Penny

   


Hi Kelly,
As I sit here with tears drenching my face I take heart from your inspiring story.
When you said “What also mattered was that I had the courage to push myself. What also mattered was that I had the courage to try something knowing that I might fail. What mattered is that I would finish no matter what others thought or thought of me. I found the strength to take just one step. For a moment, I realized that I was proud of me.” my heart lept as I realized that I don’t try so many things because I was worried about not finishing and what others might think of me for failing.
I have heard this said so many times but it has never penetrated my heart like your words did.
WOW!!!! How much of my life have I not lived because I was afraid. Fear of what others think of me is stopping me in so many aspects of my life. It paralizes me. Your story has made me think about how many other people are missing out because I selfishly don’t try to use my God given talents.
Thank you for your courage and inspiration.
Penny NZ

Yvonne Lovejoy

   


Hi Kelley,

Congratulations and well done!!! You fabulous woman goddess of power and achievement. I could sense the struggle you went through, and I could also experience your strong determination to succeed. The wonderful feelings of achievement of “doing it and succeeding are yours forever.

Margie

   


Congradulations! I’m proud of you!

Teena Miller

   


I felt your pain and I felt your Determination – courage is what it took and you had it! Bravo to you and your finishing the race, a Marathon, no less. I cried tears of joy for you – my husband was training for his first marathon when I was diagnosed with breast cancer a month before he was to run his race. We both decided he had to do it – run the marathon without me. I remained in California and he flew off to Hawaii. I sat at my computer screen at 5 in the morning with my drainage tubes from my mastectomy hanging on my lap, watching the fireworks go off over Honolulu and the start of the Marathon with over 30,000 people participating, hoping against hope that my beloved JD would turn up on the screen. He, like you, completed his marathon with great effort. He, like you thought of others on their cancer journey and fought to reach the finish line. Thank you for making those steps, EVERY step counts! I’m cancer free now and JD is still running his races!Blessings to you because now you will do whatever you set your mind to! Much Love, Teena

MaryEllen Gray

   


My gosh! What an accomplishment!! You must be so proud of yourself. What a wonderful feeling! You are an inspiration and I thank you for that.

Ingrid

   


Wow! What an incredibly moving story, Kelley!! I used to run 3 miles everyday (some 20 years ago), but I can’t imagine running 26.2. You are truly an inspiration to others as well as to yourself! Keep going and keep growing!!

Blessings

Margaret Loughnan

   


I truely admire you, a champian of determination

Regards
ML

Julie Jones

   


Kelly,
I am thrilled, excited and motivated to keep pressing on – moving forward to my dreams. You are indeed inspiring. Thank you for being so willing to share and allow us to see your doubts and your difficulties. So often we fail to see the hard work, commitment and time in takes for success – we see someone else’s success and imagine how easy it is for them. It is as you say for all of us – success in the journey begins with one step – and repeating that step – 26.2 miles and beyond. WOW.

Ginny Carter

   


Kelley,
WOW! I can only imagine what that experience was like, physically and emotionally. What an inspiration you are. What a commitment to your dream, pushing through your reality – pain, blood, exhaustion. And using your resources and seeing that resources come in many different ways – direct and indirect. In reading towards the end, I could see you being “carried” by love. Thanks for sharing your dream with us!
Ginny

Morgine

   


I am crying and thank you for knowing you could do it….and for knowing you were doing it for all of us… we are all interconnected and inspired so many of us who often give up way too soon for even more simpler goals!! Thanks so much for sharing your courage!!

Hugs of love, Morgine

Laida Williams

   


Kelly,
Even though you don’t know me, I would like to extend my congratulations and hugs to you. I am proud of what you have accomplished. Not everybody can do what you did. You are a winner in my book because winners never quit.

Sincerely,
Laida Williams

Jan Cooper

   


Kelley,

You don’t know me. But, I want to Thank You and want you to know how proud we all are for you! You are an inspiration to all of us.

Looking forward to seeing what your next Dream is. Thanks for being you!

Jan

Maxine

   


You were great. I am so proud of you.

Janice Hope

   


The courage it took to do this is just awsome! but what really got to me was you got to the point of not caring about what others thought and you did it for you and what your motivation was! Blessings, Janice Hope “the Angel Lady”

Manon Laurin

   


CONGRATULATIONS KELLY !

This is real team work to be ready to suffer for the ones you belong too .
You are my hero.

Alelua

Manon Laurin
90 day program 2010

Sieg

   


Nice! Be proud.
What’s your next mountain?
:-)

Michelle

   


We’ve never met…I read your story…It brought tears to my eyes. Tears of happiness for you!!!

What courage you have!
M.

Crystal Harding

   


What an inspiration you are! You will never be the same, now that you realize the power of taking the next step, even when it’s painful. God bless you and keep moving forward.

Nicole

   


Kelley, congratulations to you! And thank you for giving me the inpiration & courage I need to accomplish a personal goal! I’m in awe of women and men like you. Thank you for sharing!

Linda KIernan

   


Hi Kelley,
Thank you for such a real, heart-felt recount of your experience during the marathon. I have the feeling I will be carrying these words with me, and they will offer support when I am in need of some courage, determination and commitment.
Congratulations!
Linda

Evelyn

   


So brave! I felt for your doubts and agony and know how going one step at a time can get you through and even create miracles. Even if this a once in a lifetime achievement, you can certainly be proud of yourself and happy for having held on to do what you set out to do.

Kathi

   


How awesome Kelley! You have touched so many with your courage, and I think mostly your spirit. I am beyond inspired! You reinforced many beliefs for me with your “ride!” It came from inside you, and you went to where your truth lies. Aside from the training…it was the integrity, intention, purpose, and your dream. I appreciate the tears rolling down my face hearing you be YOU! Cheers my dear…I’m grateful for you and this incredible ride that you chose and overcame all obstacles! With love, Kathi

Judy

   


Thank You for sharing this story. You truly are an IN-SPIRIT-ATION to Me! OneLove1

PeggyLee

   


Kelley, I remember when you asked for support on the Community to hold you in our hearts and thoughts for this run. It was such inspiration — and insightful to do so! Imagine, another dream you had, the Dream University Community website, actually being a container that held another dream of running a marathon! You literally took all 10 steps of the Dream Coach process and are now living your dream! And we all on the Community got to be on your Dream Team! I am so honored and feel blessed that our paths have crossed. And I am very proud to call you and have you as a friend. Yes, indeed! You keeping going girl!

Erin Sarika Delaney

   


You are one awesome mama! Felicidates and thank you for all you do for the world, Kelley.

zafer ali

   


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Sandy

   


What a great story. Congratulations, Kelly! You are an inspiration. Now go and get a massage.

Charmaine Kannemeyer

   


Kelly I salute you,you my hero.What an awe inspiring story I felt your pain,blood and tears.Your Dream has been fulfilled.Thanks for sharing your wonderful and challenging experience.Yes We Can !!!Just Do It!!!

Kim

   


Your story is so inspiring, it brought tears to my eyes and hope to my heart! It has inspired me to reach beyond what I know I’m capable of…thanks for sharing

Abhas

   


What an achievement!! Its such stories of courage that inspire us with a tear in eyes and lump in throat.

God bless you and have a great life ahead.

Best of luck.

Leela Breedlove

   


Thank you for putting your experience in writing. Your thoughts are applicable to my journey in spiritual life. One step at a time, one mantra at a time. I have committed to chanting 1,728 mantras a day for the rest of my life. That is about 2 hours a day. I made that choice some 15 years ago. There are days that I have no desire to chant at all yet my goal would be lost without it. Looking at the whole picture sometimes prompts me to say I don’t have time today or I feel overwhelmed even though I know I will feel so much bliss if I take those initial steps into my daily meditation and commit though to completion. One step at a time is MUCH easier than looking at the whole picture when it comes to most goals that feel large. Thank you for that reminder and for your inspiration. You hung in there through all the stages of the journey and made it to the finish line. Congratulations!!! Hare Krishna

Kathy G,

   


Thank you for sharing your story Kelley. It is truly an inspiration to everyone. Your accomplishment will always provide motivation and energy for you in future endeavors.

Karen

   


Kelley!!!!!!!! You are the WOMAN! I am so proud of you. I live in Dallas and I “walked” the full length of White Rock Lake by mistake. I parked the car and took off walking not realizing that there was an 11 mile trek in there. Sure I could’ve turned back, but why? LOL!!!

Kelley, YOU will always have this to pull from in those times of fear, uncertainty.
What a beautiful gift you gave to yourself, Jordan, Murray and anyone else who hears your story!

Thanks I am in Awe!

Glenn

   


Great Kelley keep it up. You inspire me.

Judy Felton

   


Kelley,
What an inspiring story!
Your courage,inner strength and compassion is truly amazing Go girl.

Jack Kellythorne

   


An awesome story. I am so proud of Kelley and am in awe of her toughness. I feel so lucky to call her my friend.

Jack Kellythorne

Glenn Joseph Francis

   


WoW
That was good and inspiring and all the best of wishes to you!!!!!
A sincere wish of God’s blessings be upon you.
GOD bless!!
Glenn

nancy

   


WoW…kelley your story is so inspiring..great job..i am just beginning to run and i am having a difficult time but after reading your story..i am pushed to continue on..thank you!

Seela

   


Dear Kelley,

Awesome!!! and what a great job. I know how it is to come to the finishing line cause i am an athlete myself. But running 26.2 miles isn’t something to compare with what i do. The distant itself shows a huge challenge and courage for anyone to do it. Thank you for the great story, i really need it to boost myself and be more motivated.

Many Congratulations to you…:):):)

Nathi Vincent Ngwenya

   


You are amazing and a clear example that MAN can do what man believes he/she can do when he/she acts on it inspite of challenges. Thank you very much, Kelly!

Ron

   


Kelley,

Thanks for sharing your story so well and taking us with you through the marathon.
The truly great people are those whose compassion and courageous persistence are mixed with genuine humility and openness.
blessings

heather

   


way to go Kelley – you are a real
inspiration for many of us who don’t know
you as well as your TNT teammates,family,
friends and the Leukemia and Lymphoma
patients you were supporting with your run.
You took on a difficult goal and completed
it one step at a time – totally awesome -
keep up the great work
Thanx for trying and not giving up.
Heather

Veronica

   


Wow, Kelly, you are just so amazing.

Anna

   


Kelley,
Thank you for sharing your story with us. It inspired me and reminded me that as long as I know where I’m headed, all I need to do is take the next step. I will get “there” because I’m there NOW and others will support my journey to have it completed in the physical realm. I send you and all those on Earth Love and Peace.
Anna Lee

Elena

   


Congratulations!!
And thank you!! for encouraging us!

Susan L. Frank-Kama

   


What an incredibly super-duper story, Kelly. Mahalo nui(many thanks)for sharing. I feel so very proud of your huge accomplishment. God bless you in all of your endeavors. Success galore, Girl. Aloha pumehana(Warm love)…malama pono(take care).

Melisa Reyes-Stewart

   


Proud of you girl! And thank you for taking me back to my day almost 6 years ago when on a warm day at the start of summer in Alaska I too carried the names, spirits, and dreams of many from TNT and found that winners cross the finish line.

Mostly thank you for reminding me that the journey to be courageous enough to try knowing that I may fail is what separates thee dreamers from the doers.

nancy

   


kelly…to do what u have done takes more courage and strength than most people have and to hear this story makes me believe a little bit more that maybe i could do something big – run my own race and it gives me hope- THANK YOU FOR GIVING ME HOPE!!!!

CONGRATULATIONS GIRL!!!!!!! CELEBRATE YOU – FOR U ARE TRULY SPECIAL!!!!
NANCY a friend and sister :-)

shelly

   


Kelley,

What an inspiration!!! I am so inspired but what you did I think of you all the time whenever I feel like stopping.

I’m 60 and I just climbed to the top of both sides of a climbing wall at Miraval and did “swing and prayer” from 35 feet over the dessert with you in my mind.

You go girl!!!!!!! It just goes to show what we can do when we’re committed. Congratulations.

Christine Lunn Russell

   


I must say this story has inspired me to really come out of the box and live life to the fullest. It has caused me to face my fears and step out in faith in areas of my life that I was afriad to. thanks so much Kelley for your story cant wait to share my own because am jumping out of the box even as I send this email. Don’t give up we need this kind of testimony!!!

Love Christine

Liz Blumenthal

   


What a wonderful story. Kelley did it all, no matter what the circumstances. Women can do anything and here’s an example of walking, running the talk. Wow! What a way to be on the court out there doing what your dreams call you to do no matter what the pain, fear, and tears. YES!!

Shravana

   


Hi Kelley,

I cried while reading your story….you are truly an inspiration!
Congratulations on your success and thank you for inspiring so many of us!!
Love,
Shravana

Marie-France

   


Good God, you are amasing! And very inspiring to me and others. Congratulations and many thanks for sharing. It goes a long way – all the way to Switzerland, where I live.
MF

Ana

   


Loved it, thank you for being an inspiration.

Sue Edwards

   


Kelley, great story, I feel like I ran it with you. I always wonder what the runner’s are thinking, what drives them to the end point. I have a better appreciation for the journey. Thanks for sharing the pain and gain. Sue :)