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Clemson Sports Icon [59893]
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Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 11:15 AM
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Yesterday, I was able to get back something that I have loved – and missed – for a long time.
In late July I posted my story of having contracted Rheumatoid Arthritis over the summer. And I also shared my story of how God showed up in orchestrating the circumstances that allowed me to see a well-regarded rheumatologist at just the right moment. Thanks to Him, I avoided having to endure a long nine month wait (which I would have had to endure otherwise).
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is different from the more common osteoarthritis. RA means that my own immune system is attacking my joints. This summer I began dealing with a lot of inflammation all at once – including swollen, stiff, and sore: fingers, wrists, feet, ankles, and knees. Thanks to the doctor, I have begun getting treatment, which has already helped tremendously. In many ways, this post is an update on how the RA treatment has been going.
For decades, I had been running. Typically, I was running about three times per week and just over three miles per run (basically just over a 5K). My wife is the one who got me into running after we first got married (we celebrated our 30th Anniversary in December). Before then I never thought about running – at least not on purpose.
Now I love it. For people like me who have fallen in love with running, there is nothing like the joy of running. Those who run consistently know what I am talking about. It is a feeling that you only get when out moving, running your course. At the beginning of the year, I had even thought that I should get back to running in some races this fall. Having recently turned 60, I would finally be competing in an older age group in many of the race competitions. That said, I still doubt I would win anything even in this older age group – but maybe I could finish a little higher (LOL)!
Over the summer, however, the stiffness and soreness (particularly in my knees) ended my running. My last run was in mid-June. I have been missing it greatly. I did purchase a Peloton bike. (Note for any other educators out there: Peloton offers a $500 Educator’s Discount!). But I still missed running.
Yesterday, I was able to do something I was not sure I would ever be able to do again. I was able to run. I ran my full normal route (about 3.3 miles that includes multiple hills). It was wonderful! At first, it felt a little awkward as my muscle memory had seemingly forgotten all about running. But once I got going, it felt so comfortable and so wonderful all over again!
All in all, yesterday was a Great, Great Day! Sometimes we take things for granted – until they appear to be taken away. Yesterday, I received a gift by getting something I love back again! And that gift goes back to the earlier gift from God to begin treatment in late July – without having to wait!!
In some ways, it might seem like a small victory. For me, it was a major milestone!
Message was edited by: CBProf®
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Legend [6724]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 11:23 AM
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Keep on Truckin
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Top TigerNet [28429]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 11:29 AM
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Glad to hear you are getting back to business. God is Good!
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Ultimate Tiger [35196]
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good on ya mate***
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Sep 5, 2025, 11:30 AM
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Heisman Winner [83112]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 11:43 AM
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Great to hear this. I'm happy for you. I know what is like to miss out on something you used to love. The old song line "you dont know what you've got till its gone" is very true. It is especially true of the basic pleasure we take for granted. Godspeed on your journey to deal with this. Please know I enjoy your posts also
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Paw Warrior [4828]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 11:59 AM
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Great to hear CBProf! Continued well wishes. PS Would love to hear more about what the treatment has been that has proven successful. I bet many could benefit to learn more about your experience.
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Clemson Sports Icon [59893]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 12:52 PM
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Thanks, JohnstoneD626®!
You are correct that there are several other TNetters whose lives are affected in some way by RA. When I posted the original thread in late July, several TNetters also shared their own experiences with this disease. Each of them was a HUGE encouragement to me!!! I was definitely blessed by each of their stories!
If interested, here is the original thread:
https://www.tigernet.com/forums/message.jspa?messageID=37114592#37114592
Personally, I am taking a relatively low dosage of methotrexate. Methotrexate suppresses the immune system. It does include some side effects (hair loss, nausea, blisters around the mouth). Fortunately, I have not yet experienced any of the side effects. Hopefully, that will not change, but, of course, it could, especially if the rheumatologist increases my dosage when I see her again in two weeks. Since I am not all the way back to normal yet (still some knee, fingers, and wrist stiffness), she might want to increase the dosage.
All in all, I am quite blessed!
God is good!!
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Ultimate Clemson Legend [109444]
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Awesome***
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Sep 5, 2025, 12:00 PM
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Valley Legend [12999]
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Good for you! Motivate the rest of us!***
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Sep 5, 2025, 12:55 PM
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National Champion [7384]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 12:59 PM
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Glad to hear you are doing better CBProf. Keep on moving forward.
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Clemson Conqueror [11727]
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congrats!
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Sep 5, 2025, 1:08 PM
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Paw Master [16670]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 1:58 PM
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I ran for years but never go that runner's "high". I just got tired.
Was I doing something wrong? I'd like to start again.
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Clemson Conqueror [11727]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 2:11 PM
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lots of folks go too fast for their own good
most people 'run' when they should just 'jog' easily. the effort should almost always be at a 'conversational' pace/effort
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MVP [530]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 2:48 PM
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Fantastic story--congratulations!
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Clemson Sports Icon [56799]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 4:09 PM
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That's awesome news, CBProf! Prayers are answered every single day. I'm really happy that you found a great rheumatologist because the right treatment makes all the difference in the world.
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All-Time Great [92008]
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Awesome for you. That's about how I would feel if I ever improve to the point
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Sep 5, 2025, 4:12 PM
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that I could chase golf eggs around a golf course again. Just started taking supplements after finding out I have been at least mildly anemic and iron deficient for at least the last two years. So, maybe someday...
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Oculus Spirit [40204]
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Good to hear CBProf
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Sep 5, 2025, 5:29 PM
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Glad to hear your treatment is taking effect and you can get back to the things you love. Growing up, I loved biking and hiking in the great outdoors and working out. Getting RA mid 00s along with some other problems caused me to get depressed and lethargic and lose interest in enjoyable life stuff.
My then young son (BigAl) was a big inspiration and the catalyst for my Tnet account. I had to persevere for him. Last decade, I started hiking, biking (exercise bike), and working out again. The increase in energy, stamina, and mood was amazing. I think I felt better in my 50s than I did in my 30s.
But then I passed 60 and now I'm working towards retirement in a couple of years which seems to consume me. I've slacked off from exercising as much the past four years. I hope you don't do the same. I'm convinced exercise growing up and more recently helped me manage RA along with the meds and their side effects.
Hope you keep running. You may have inspired me to get back in action. Exercise is good for mental, physical, social, and spiritual health. Endorphins and serotonin are great drugs of choice. Godspeed.
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TigerNet Elite [74647]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 5:53 PM
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I'm happy for you, CBProf! God IS good!!
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Clemson Sports Icon [59893]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 7:01 PM
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Thank you to all of you who responded with such encouraging words!
All of your comments are very much appreciated!!
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Dynasty Maker [3125]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 7:10 PM
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That is awesome!! Been running on regular basis either outside or on treadmill for years. It’s a great stress release and helps my sleep, energy, and mood . Glad you are able to do it again and staying active and exercising in anyway makes a big difference.
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TigerNet Elite [72606]
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Glad you were able to do that!***
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Sep 5, 2025, 8:21 PM
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TigerNet HOFer [125873]
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glad for you man
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Sep 5, 2025, 8:31 PM
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I probably do not have to mention that diet can go a long way in mitigating RA. I am not there yet, but it runs in my family and I was having knee and back problems a while back. I switched to a Mediterranean diet. My hands are another issue; it is getting harder to play the guitar.
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All-Time Great [92688]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 10:36 PM
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Keep it up!
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Ultimate Tiger [38709]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 5, 2025, 10:41 PM
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I am your age and I miss running. I gave it up when plantar fasciitis set in over a decade ago. I no longer suffer from its effects, but worry that if I start back running, it will return. Best of luck on your arthritis battle, keep up the fight.
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Solid Orange [1343]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)***
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Sep 5, 2025, 11:43 PM
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Varsity [144]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 6, 2025, 12:33 AM
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As we all get older and our bodies sadly give out, I truly appreciate our health. Kudos to you.
I remember being a kid and hearing adults being grateful for their health and I was thinking “why would you be grateful for your health? We all have it.” Not until an adult later would I begin to understand and appreciate.
I’m thrilled for you. Keep in keeping on!
Go Tigers
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Top TigerNet [32987]
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congratulations on your recovery!
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Sep 6, 2025, 7:52 AM
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Game Changer [1899]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 6, 2025, 8:46 AM
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I commend you follow tiger. My spinal date of surgery June 18, 2018.it Changed my life forever. I used to be aavid walker putting in 4 1/2 -5 miles a day while I weight lifted. every Saturday I caught the football game at home and occasionally made a road trip until that day. Everything just turned upside down; my life prior going in I was told that if I didn’t have the surgery there was a 50% chance or greater that I would be paralyzed because of the damage that was being done to my sciatic nerve daily. I had two plates, screws, installing two different sections of my back was broken And something that happened to me citizen with a night security person. I have 15 years experience with retired Social Security for 2 1/2 years I’ve given him my disability. I have yet to walk past 15 yards around the corner 0r ride in a car 30 miles is my price. But I hope the day will come when I be able to see my beloved tigers and catch the game. to be able to hear the pounding of cement or smell the energy in the air as They were about to run down the hill. Enjoy your gift and I am so glad that God gave it back to you.
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Game Changer [1899]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 6, 2025, 8:54 AM
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I commend you follow tiger. My spinal date of surgery June 18, 2018.it Changed my life forever. I used to be aavid walker putting in 4 1/2 -5 miles a day while I weight lifted. every Saturday I caught the football game at home in Clemson and occasionally made a road trip until that day. Everything just turned upside down; my life prior going in I was told that if I didn’t have the surgery there was a 50% chance or greater that I would be paralyzed because of the damage thay was being done to my sciatic nerve daily. I had a platscrews, installing things in different sections of my back that was broken And something that happened to me a civil servant citizen with I have 15 years experience with correctional supervision retired Social Security and was retired medically and after 2 1/2 years I’ve been given my disability. I have yet to walk past 15 yards around the corner of my home 0r ride in a car 30 miles . But I hope the day will come when I be able to see my beloved tigers and catch the game. to be able to hear the pounding of cement or smell the energy in the air as They were about to run down the hill. Enjoy your gift and I am so glad that God gave it back to you.
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CU Guru [1596]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 6, 2025, 10:17 AM
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Excellent news, CB! As you always do, you gave the honor and praise to whom it was due. I am so thankful that you are doing so well. You are blessed, as you well know, to be able to return to a sport that you love. Continue to inspire others on TigerNet, and everywhere you go. Run,CB, run!
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Orange Immortal [64690]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 6, 2025, 5:00 PM
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I'm really glad to hear that your health has improved, my grandmother and my mother had RA, but sadly they passed away before treatments had been discovered that could have made their lives much easier to live with RA. I am glad that the treatment has worked for you CBPROF!!!
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Letterman [189]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 6, 2025, 5:50 PM
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Do you have any eligibility left? Kidding aside. Congrats on getting back out there! That’s a heckuva accomplishment
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Recruit [-33]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 6, 2025, 8:35 PM
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Adam Randall is that you?
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Head Coach [934]
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Re: Yesterday, I was Able to Run for the First Time in Almost Three Months (Long)
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Sep 6, 2025, 8:55 PM
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Praise God!
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