Gotta Give it to Harriette.

By Amy Coward

Well she’s done it again. My inspiration, Harriette Thompson, has set another record as the oldest woman to complete a half marathon at 94 years of age. And she completed it in 3:42:56. Go, Harriette!

I am so hoping my genes will allow me to do the same.

I am living vicariously through Harriette and well, all runners right now because I’m sidelined due to foot surgery. It’s funny how you miss something so much that at times you curse while you’re doing it. Running is, after all, kind of a love/hate relationship for me. While I love the feeling it gives me when I’m feeling strong or when I’ve completed a race, there are times mid-run when I question my sanity and think, “who said this was fun?”

Not being allowed to run, though, has given me a new perspective. And a new appreciation for being able to do such things.

I had surgery on my right foot in December and was finally permitted to run on a treadmill after 3 months. Yes, three stinking long months. It felt so good to finally move again and build up a sweat. Then at 5 months I was released to run on the street. I ran in a couple of 5ks to get back in the swing of things and felt a little like a beginner again, since I was used to registering for the longer distances. All the 10k folks were at the front of the line ready to bolt and I was in the way back wondering if I could run the whole 3 miles. But it was a start. And it was exhilarating to finish the race and realize that life would soon be back to normal.

Then my other foot beckoned and it was back to surgery. So here I am, in a boot, watching longingly as people enjoy their daily run.

Today’s article about Harriette was just what I needed. She’s 94 and has no doubt had some starts and stops along the way. In fact, I know she has because she’s a two-time cancer survivor (and here I am complaining about foot surgery). Harriette got back up each time, put on her running shoes and hit the streets. That’s where she finds joy and satisfaction, I’m sure.

And the same will be true for me in due time.

So just wait, Harriette. I’m coming to join you soon. And with any luck at all, I’ll be running at 94 just like you.

Amy Coward is a public relations professional in Columbia, SC. When she is not managing the madness of event planning at Palmetto Health Foundation, she is turning her empty nest upside down looking for fun and finding it.