“Pain is temporary.  It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place.  If I quit, however, it lasts forever” – Lance Armstrong

Last night, I read to Emilee that quote from Lance Armstrong.  She must have uttered those words yesterday during the Adidas KOTR.

Thousands of runners, both from the 10k and 21k race, converged along the stretch of Buendia Ave from the Kalayaan Fly-over downramp up to Reposo St.  Approaching the Kalayaan Fly-over when Emilee was on her way back to The Fort, she accidentally twisted her right ankle.  She was down for a while but managed to get up with the help of those kind-hearted runners near her. 

With bruises on both knees and a sprained right ankle, Ems continued her run until she reached km#12.  She almost thought of going back and quit.  But being a fighter, she took a right turn going up 5th avenue.  I saw her at the Bayani Road when I was on my way back to Lawton Ave.  All she said was “I’m okay”.

I immediately got back to the 5th Ave after I crossed the finish line.  I saw her running as she makes the turn on the 26th street.  She didn’t mind the pains on her bruised knees – and later on her right ankle – to finish the race beaming with PRIDE and HONOR.

Congratulations Mom!  I’m so proud of you!!!

 

note: our deep appreciation for those unnamed runners who helped Ems and the Red Cross team who attended to her at the Finish Line.