I have struggled with depression for most of my life; as have many members of my family. It has caused me to waste so much time. So lately, whilst trying to drive myself in a positive and productive direction, I have often sought inspiration from others.
I have one brother, and three sisters; and they have all inspired me, and continue to do so. Today I would like to talk about my youngest sister, Brigan; who decided to start training for ultra-marathons earlier this year. And who completed her first solo marathon this past Saturday, after deciding to go for it only two days prior.
Brigan truly inspires me, and has allowed me to share her story:
“I have dealt with chronic pain (migraines) every day of my entire life that I remember; as far back kindergarten. I don’t know what it’s like to exist without pain.
“With that came chronic depression, that has burdened my life, and led to a lot of bad and impulsive decisions; almost destroying my marriage on many occasions.
“I was in a particularly bad place mentally before our most recent move. I read some studies about an antidepressant medication that had also helped people suffering from headaches and fibromyalgia. I scheduled an appointment with a doctor, and asked for it. He was surprised that no one had ever tried that medication before, and immediately wrote the prescription.
“It didn’t help my headaches, but it cured my depression. And, for the first time in my life, I could feel the wondrous splendor of a beautiful sunset, dance to a great song with no one watching, and feel at peace.
“There’s this guy, Ken Chlouber, who said, ‘Make friends with your pain, and you’ll never be alone.” So I did, and it doesn’t control me anymore.
“Last week I got up and went for an 18 mile run, and Jon (her husband) asked me why? And it struck me that, since I started this journey, I haven’t ever considered not running. Aside from a devastating week off in May, after rolling my ankle from a trail run fall, I haven’t missed a run since March.
“Now that I am consistent, it just feels like something I have to do. I am compelled to run.
“Long distance running restructured the way I think and feel about pain. It empowered me.”
Brigan has signed up for a 50 kilometer run in October, and continues to work towards completing a 100 mile ultra-marathon next year.
I am so proud of Brigan, and congratulate her for achieving something incredible. I love you, sis.
Below is a video of Brigan checking in during her marathon (WARNING: contains adult language):
The Triggered Limey 