We are very proud!!

Evergreen, CO

Sunday afternoon  August 5, 2012

We are very proud!!

Some of you have followed our daughter Kelly's cancer diagnosis.  She was diagnosed with breast cancer on  March 11, 2011 at the age of 42.  She had a double mastectomy on May 6, 2011.  We documented “The Journey” in several posts on this blog starting here.

Our family watched in horror as we saw how devastating this surgery is.  We witnessed the terrible pain from the original surgery (as well as two subsequent surgeries) and the inability to perform even the most basic functions with her arms (huge muscle damage) including holding her daughters.  We were amazed at her very positive attitude and how diligently she performed her rehabilitation. 

A few months ago she set a goal of completing a triathlon.  Not just any triathlon, but the “Tri for the Cure” which raises funds for breast cancer research  (information here)


Well today, a day short of her 15 month surgery anniversary, she completed the event in 1:54:45.  Her goal was two hours and she beat that!  She participated in the “survivors” wave and folks were so enthusiastic for this group.  When she crossed the line (photo), there was not a dry eye in our group!!!

There were 1971 finishers and her time was just about the middle of those finishers. This is a huge accomplishment, considering that she has never entered a triathlon.  As is the case with everything she does, she put a huge amount of effort (both mental and physical) into her training.  This is even more amazing when you consider that, while her recovery has gone well, she still is not a 100%. 

We are so very glad that her recovery is almost complete and that her husband and daughters have been so supportive.