Kaitlyn is a guest blogger who is writing for 42.2 for the 2016 marathon training season. She will be writing monthly blogs, updating us on the ups and downs of her journey from 0 to 42.2.

By Kaitlyn Fulton 

Kaitlyn's dog Oakley enjoying some lake views while she was on a forced break from running. Kaitlyn might not be happy about it but Oakley looks like he's enjoying the R&R. – Justina
Kaitlyn’s dog Oakley enjoying some lake views while they were on a forced break from running. Kaitlyn might not be happy about it but Oakley looks like he’s enjoying the R&R. – Justina

At the beginning of the season, Coach Colleen chatted with our group about training for a marathon and emphasized it wouldn’t be an easy endeavour. At that time, I was of the mindset that anyone who worked hard and followed the schedule would be rewarded with being able to physically complete the marathon at the end of the season. I am now learning that it is definitely not that simple. Training for a marathon takes dedication, consistency and sacrifice. It also takes determination and patience – especially when life gets in the way and takes away your ability to run.

This has been me for the last week and a half, unable to run. I am feeling frustrated, upset and defeated. This all started with getting a really bad cold. I had a sore throat, stuffy nose and a headache, which prevented me from doing anything besides rest. Almost a week after coming down with this horrible cold, I was in the chair of my endodontist’s office getting surgery to remove an infection found at the very tip of one of the roots of one of my teeth. OUCH! After being hopeful I would soon be returning to running, it was determined on the third day after the surgery that it was infected. I was told I couldn’t run until it settled down and was put on antibiotics.

It’s been hard, really hard. Receiving news that my mouth had an infection was gut wrenching. I feel like I haven’t been able to run in forever and the infection delays the heal time and lengthens my time off from running. How will my fitness be when I finally get to return? Will I be able to survive my next long run (3.5 hours)? Will I still be able to run the marathon? So many thoughts – so many worries.

I can’t wait to put my shoes back on and give it my all. I am ready for the next few weeks of training leading up to the race. I miss running so much but I am being constantly reminded of the importance of taking care of my body and the long-term implications if I don’t. I am grateful to those who are looking out for my best interests – even if it doesn’t feel like it right now.

Here’s to feeling better and getting back on track soon.