Since qualifying for China, I check the weather there often, A few days ago the forecast was 'chilly and smoke'. That's right, "SMOKE"! I knew from the Beijing Olympics that air quality can be a real problem there, but will be especially challenging for me as an athlete with asthma. I never had asthma as a kid, it started in my early twenties after moving to LA from the pristine mountain air of the Adirondack Mountains in NY. It has been a challenge - with the occasional attacks during races. Now if I feel asthmatic I carry my inhaler with me on the run (see pic below).
Some the best runners on my college team at the University of Louisiana had asthma, like Kelly and Dodi, and they were/are amazing runners. I'm tired of people using the excuse that they can't run or exercise because they have asthma. I do it everyday. You can too.
Star athletes with asthma:
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20306639,00.html
Amazing!! You are an inspiring person, and I hope and pray for the best for you, I'm not able to donate right now but as soon as I can I will. Take care, and I look forward to watching your journey.
ReplyDeleteEvangeline
What a great post...it's helpful for other athletes and potential athletes to know that they can overcome health obstacles to achieve their goals. I know I witnessed some heroic races with you, Kelly and Dodi fighting asthma. The link is great too!
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Robin
great post, laura! i've had asthma since i was two, and exercise (especially running) makes it easier to manage, not worse. i'm really hoping that you have no asthma issues in china!
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