Fight For Air Climb – March 24, 2018

(Written on March 24, 2018)

Sitting in the Omni hotel where we have many memories, I just finished the fight for air climb, a stair climb organized by the American Lung Association to raise funds for lung disease. I didn’t think I would be at my best because I haven’t had any motivation or desire to work out in the two months since you passed, but I did the practice run last month in over 7 minutes and I’d be damned if I didn’t do this. Two months of no exercise made this difficult. I almost threw up at the top after 22 floors of stairs. But I did it. For you, and for me. And I was FASTER! 6:28 minutes! And I know you’re here, cheering me on from the stairwell and sitting across from me having coffee. You have always inspired and motivated me and you will continue to for the rest of my life. I listened to this song every drive to and from the hospital every day when I was in North Carolina with you, and I listened to it on repeat during the climb just now. A song I used in reference to you is helping me now, just like you are. Thank you for everything you’ve done. I will continue to run for lung disease in your name for as long as I’m able. 💗

“Like a small boat on the ocean
Sending big waves into motion
Like how a single word can make a heart open
I might only have one match, but I can make an explosion

And all those things I didn’t say
Wrecking balls inside my brain
I will scream them loud tonight
Can you hear my voice this time?

This is my fight song
Take back my life song
Prove I’m alright song
My power’s turned on
Starting right now I’ll be strong
I’ll play my fight song
And I don’t really care if nobody else believes
‘Cause I’ve still got a lot of fight left in me”