Introducing myself...and just graduated.

[Honorsmum]

I've been reading this site since starting the C25K all those weeks ago, but have only just joined.

In a nutshell, I'm a 43 year old mum of 2, who was diagnosed with Crohn's disease 3 years ago. At the time, I was training for a 10K race, but became very ill and had to give up running completely. After diagnosis and 4 months of stroids to put me into remission, I tried running again but started to have problems with my knees and hips (a problem common in inflammatory bowel disease sufferers) and had to admit defeat again.

This time around, I found Laura's podcasts and stuck to them religiously, combined with squats to strengthen my legs...and have found the difference HUGE! No pain and my legs have felt really good all the way through.

Unfortunately, in the very hot weather a couple of weeks ago, I picked up a virus but decided to run on through it...and ended up poorly again and having to complete rest between Week 9 run 2 and 3 - I finally managed the last run of week 9 on Monday of this week. Yay!!

A bunch of friends have entered the Swansea 10k (the race I had to pull out of) at the end of September and I REALLY want to be able to do it this time, although it kind of terrifies me. I am not great at giving in to my limitations - I push too hard and end up getting ill.

So...I need a structured plan (podcasts preferably, as I find even terrible music keeps my mind off my panting and puffing!) to get me from 5k to 10k in about 8 weeks.

Links would be fantastic, thanks!

[greenlegs Graduate]

I'm sorry - can't help with music, as I don't use it any more, but I just wanted to say Congratulations! You have been so determined to get to graduation - I have huge respect for you.

I'm sure others will have music ideas very soon!

[Honorsmum in reply to greenlegs]

Sorry! Being new to posting, I've put my reply to you in the wrong place!

[Honorsmum]

Thank you, Greenlegs.

Until a couple of weeks ago, I was really loving running. Since getting the virus, it's been a bit tough...and today I am feeling a bit dejected, after a friend asked me what I was running from. She meant it as a joke, saying that she thinks running is no good for anyone...but I've taken it to heart, as I use running to deal with anxiety, so it really hit a nerve.