Sadly our world was struck with another tragedy today. As the events of Boston unfolded, I was jolted on so many emotional levels. My thoughts went out to all of the runners, spectators, volunteers, servicemen, family, and friends. No one expects anything like this and no one expects it at the end of 26.2 miles.
I immediately thought of a Gastroparesis runner, Malinda Hill and her twin sister who were in Boston today. Thankfully her twitter indicated that they are both okay. We have never met or talked on the phone. We have only exchanged a few tweets about running with Gastroparesis & encouragement to each other, but she was the first person I thought of. My immediate second thought went out to all of the runners I knew who had friends in Boston. A good friend of mine had several of his running partners there. Thankfully all accounted for.
Another jolt to my emotions which developed later was thinking about how a marathon is an extremely draining experience. In spite of Gastroparesis, I was able to complete two half marathons last year and am scheduled to complete three half marathons this year. I found myself to be completely drained both emotionally and physically by the end of a mere 13.1 miles. I cannot fathom what it would feel like to add the additional stress of trying to process what is happening, find your loved ones, and update your friends and family. It really makes you stop and think.
It makes you stop and think about what your purpose is in life and if you are achieving it. If you are going on with your life and tragedy strikes have you left the impression on the world that you wanted to leave? Have you achieved your purpose? What will your legacy be? This is when I can honestly say that I am thankful for Gastroparesis. It has provided me with a clear purpose in life and I want my legacy to be making a change for Gastroparesis. I am hopefully that through all of the Gastroparesis groups out there, that we can band together and make Gastroparesis a household name in our lifetime.
There are so many additional emotions going on about this experience, but I think sharing two is enough.
My thoughts go out to all of those involved and I hope that everyone is able to locate their friends and family!
~Millie
Adventures with Gastroparesis 
There was someone where I now live that just crossed the finish line and just a few minutes later heard the bombs go off (I caught the segment on our local news)! She and her mother ran two blocks back to their hotel and called everyone to let them know that they were okay. Like you said, it really makes you think about your time here and now and no one knows when your time is up. I agree that having GP has really made me modify my life, I know that we all do but the main thing is I don’t let things get to me anymore as they once did. I am myself and don’t feel like I have to fit a particular “type.” I am traveling while I can and spending more time with people that are not “energy vampires.” I think we all have doubts on “I should have done more,” but I think that I am satisfied with what I have experienced and accomplished up until this moment. 😉
So glad to hear that you are in a good spot Jen! Finding that balance is so difficult but does make the mind settle down some.
~Millie