Dear TA’s,

By now, you probably know that I avoid talking about myself and my personal life. I prefer to focus on my love of, and expertise in travel. I believe that you have more to gain from what I share about those topics.

Once in a while, like today, I take the time to talk about some personal experience because I truly believe that if I can make you aware of something, or help you learn from my mistakes, I could be helping you tremendously.

It is easier for me to care about and advocate for others than I do for myself. Let me share with you that in addition to being a travel lover, I am a power walker. I walk fast (not run!) 8-10 miles a day, 7 days a week.  This is my mental relief; I just enjoy so much.

For the last 3 months I have been having shooting pains in both of my heels. Right away, I knew that I had plantar fasciitis. After a month of pain, I mentioned it to a friend who recommended a great acupuncturist to me. I like acupuncture, so it seemed like an easy fix.

Seven weeks later, the pain continued. Sure, I hadn’t listened to the acupuncturist when he told me to reduce my walking to 3 miles a day. Why? I “needed” my mental fix.

Like the red light in a car asking for maintenance, I ignored and postponed – until I stopped. I couldn’t put my feet on the ground; the pain was excruciating.

Luckily, a very well-respected podiatrist could see me the same day.

I’m now off my feet until I am better. I have physical therapy 2 times a week, special shoes to wear at home, splints to wear while I sleep, special orthotics casted especially for me, special tennis shoes, exercises to do at home 3 times a day, and if I want cardio (I definitely need it!) I can do stationary biking for now.

At first, I felt very sorry for myself.  But once I had a one on one talk with myself, I can now see the light at the end of the tunnel. I will continue with my plan to power walk a half marathon on November 7th. And the best news, my physical therapist believes I can do it, and so do I!

Thank you for letting share my story. Please don’t ignore your pain! Get it checked out right away even if you think it might go away!

To life, and to health!

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