3 March 2008
The Call
Posted by Terrence York under: Terrence York (Coach) .
On Feburary 25th about 1:oopm I recieved a phone call from my little sister that my mom had passed away from heart faliure. I felt pretty numb at that time and still feeling numb. She was a very strong Japanese lady that was very strong for her five kids. She moved to Grand Rapids about 12 years ago and started working for Specturm East hospital ( Blodgett Campus) . Last September she was admitted to the hospital for a aneurysm in her heart and had two surgeries since then. She had been staying in Mchenry, Il. with my little brother when this happend. We all decided that she would have a memorial service in the town she had raised us kids.
After calling all our family and friends we made arrangements to have my two daughters fly in to Ohara Airport and pick them up on the way to our home town.
While packing I wasn’t sure if I should pack all my running gear or not. I didn’t know at the time if I would be in the mood to train. I decided to pack my running gear just in case. I also knew that I had to run 18 miles on Saturday for my long run and a great time to thank my mom.
She wanted to be creamated so she could have her ashes tossed into the Pacific ocean and find her way back to Japan. It was great to see family friends that we haven’t seen in a long time. I wish it was under better circumstances.
While we were planning this I found some time in the early mornings during the week to run two seven mile runs and an a eighteen miler on Saturday morning. My friends we were staying with gave me a garmen they had won as door prize and said they were not going to use it. It made my long run so much easier. On my eighteen mile run I reflected on the time growing up in Antioch, Il. and how much my mom sacrificed for us five kids. I had a special moment with my mom somewhere between mile ten and eleven and thanked her for everything she did.
Last year at the 5/3 River Bank Run my mom was there at the finish line. This year I am dedicating all my training runs and the 5/3 River Bank Run to my mom. I know she will be at the finish line in spirit.
Thank you to all my family and friends for all the support through these tough times for my family. Also thank you to everyone who have been following our journey to the Big day.
Terry
8 Comments so far...
Shelly Says:
3 March 2008 at 5:43 pm.
Terry–I know all of us Road Warriors have had you on our minds this weekend. My prayers are with you that you will get through this. I lost my Dad two years ago, unexpectedly, so I know somewhat of what you are going through and I know you will have good days and bad. It’s not easy no matter what. I’m glad you found strength on your run this weekend. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you. God bless. –Shelly
Chaz Says:
4 March 2008 at 10:06 am.
I am so sorry to hear about your mom. I am sure that you will make her a very proud parent this year.
Lori Says:
4 March 2008 at 12:08 pm.
Terry,
I was privileged to work with your mom at Blodgett. I didn’t realize that you were her son until reading your entry here. Please know that you your family have been on all of our hearts these past few months, and especially now. She was such a wonderful woman, with so much wisdom and kindness to share. I can’t tell you how many patients would tell us the difference your mom made in their day. She spoke of you and your family often, how proud she was of each of her kids and grandchildren. She would be so touched to know that you are running in her honor.
Take care,
Lori
Steve Kelly Says:
4 March 2008 at 2:27 pm.
Our prayers are with you and your family Terry. Please don’t hesitate to call if you need anything. Way to use running to de-stress and reflect.
Bob Says:
4 March 2008 at 3:20 pm.
I am sure your mom is extremely proud of you. Keep your head up my friend!
Terry Says:
4 March 2008 at 7:36 pm.
Thank you everyone for your support and kind words. My family and myself appreciate it.
Terry
Julie Hurley Says:
4 March 2008 at 8:04 pm.
I cannot imagine what you’re going through Terry. I’m glad that running allowed you some time that you needed to grieve and reflect upon your mother’s passing. You and your family are in my thoughts. Take care.
Deb Says:
5 March 2008 at 8:46 am.
Terry, I know that your mother is extremely proud of you and she will be with you as you run your race. She did a wonderful job of raising you. I do not know your siblings, but I do know that you have made a difference in my life. You have been a wonderful, encouraging, and tough coach. . . . which I truly appreciate! You are also a kind and compassionate human being. Thank you for all the reassurances about my son as he journeys to becoming a Marine. You and your family are most definitely in our prayers.
Deb