WE DID IT!!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!
Listen to the 30 second NPR Interview of one of our supporters (Jim Kahn) talking about Lea.
Nothing sums up the experience better then this. It’s worth it!!!!
The race was wonderful… and difficult to say the least. Despite having the flu all last week, I went into the race feeling positive and excited. We met with Lance Armstrong and Joan Benoit Samulson on Saturday, and it added to the inspiration.
The crowds were fantastic and the weather couldn’t have been nicer.
The first half of the marathon went really well. I had promised to go slow, to savor every aspect of the fans, the runners and to think of all of my wonderful supporters!
I started to have some of that chest congestion like I had last week around mile 14, and by mile 20 (Heartbreak Hill) the “wheels were coming off the bus.” Breathing was a bit tough, but I saw my family and friends on the hill… and it made a HUGE difference (thank you for being there!).
Some cramped legs and a little “Kona Shuffle” brought me in the rest of the way. I finished well over an hour beyond my projected time, but I’m really not disappointed at all.
This journey started in the depths of winter with my sister enduring rounds of Cytoxin, my mother watching her baby girl lose her hair, my brother-in-law having to leave his wife overnight in the hospital and Christine, my constant companion seeing the impact of this hell on me.
This entire marathon was a journey of hope, of family, of friendship and of faith. The fact that I found myself suddenly a little under the weather reminded me of the millions out there touched by cancer who are fighting to LiveSTRONG. I was running for THOSE people who couldn’t have this opportunity and I was running most of all for Lea… who in classic grace and athleticism ran this course in just over three hours a few years ago.
Sometimes the greatest joy comes from the challenges that are most difficult… and this race was no different. Of all the races I’ve competed in, this is the most significant for me.
I know you’ve been with me every step of the way. THANK YOU. I know Lea’s struggle and the battle against cancer has touched you in a unique and very real way. I’ve truly felt the support.
There’s very little that sums up our cumulative feelings better then this 30 second interview I heard this morning on NPR. One of our friends who was out on the course was asked “why he was out there.” Grab some tissues… because it’s the same reason you all have been with us:
CLICK TO LISTEN TO THE 30 second NPR INTERVIEW of one of our supporters (it’s worth it)
Jennifer Jennings - Brian,
For all of us who couldn’t be there… and are in a battle with cancer… THANK YOU for the awareness, compassion and sensitivity that you’ve shown not only to your sister, but to your community.
You have done us a great service, while still being there for your sister and your family.
You are our hero!!
Jenn
Dinghy - Congratulations Brian!!! You’re an inspiration to all of us!
Beth
Katie - Amazing. I had no idea about your sister or why you were running this race. God bless you for being out there to promote awareness and support your family. I am truly touched.
David - Terrific job, Brian! I would have cheered you on but, as you know, I was out on the course myself, having my own triumphs and setbacks (calf cramps). Wouldn’t have traded the experience for anything, and I know you feel the same way. You have a great sister and your sister has a great brother!
Kevin - Wow Brian!
I just found this blog searching old friends on Google and LinkedIn. It has been a long time buddy but I can see you have stayed true to yourself. I remember Lea vividly… always running all over town and always so nice to an underclassman. I used to think I was so cool talking with her in the halls.
I can relate having lost much of my 20’s to surgeries and know her strength will serve her well! Drop me a line and let me know next time you are back in MA!
alison p. - awesome, totally awesome and inspiring…go team wedge!
Boston Marathon Video | Brian Wedge Photography Blog - […] I’ve been a part of hundreds of races, but Boston has been my favorite… the best fans and best organization ever. Last year at this time, I was running to raise money for LIVESTRONG and The Lance Armstrong Foundation in honor of my sister Lea… and if you haven’t read that post from last year (or need a good excuse to cry) the link is here. […]