If there’s one thing most people take for granted it’s their health. Unfortunately, warning signs of a bigger problem are often ignored until it’s too late.
This Sunday’s Goddess Run is a good reminder that you cannot ignore your health or the health of your loved ones. In Wednesday’s edition of the Gazette, we featured Goddess Run participant Julie Power, a single mother and marathon runner that suddenly found herself battling leukemia and trying to support her family.
While she acknowledged many think completing a half marathon just three weeks before being diagnosed is a badge of honour, she said it was an accomplishment that could have killed her because she didn’t listen to what her body was telling her.
So many men and women ignore the early warning signs of illness. Whether it’s pride, a busy schedule or just not wanting to face it, there are so many reasons to put off talking to a medical professional if something seems off. But waiting will not get you the help you may need and it could ultimately cost you the biggest price.
Those warning signs are something the B.C. Cancer Foundation knows all too well. The Foundation is this year’s charity of choice and funds raised at the Langford run will be going to purchase a PET/CT scanner for Island residents. According to Cathy Noel, Goddess Run founder, last year roughly 1,400 people had to travel to Vancouver to access a scanner.
By supporting the B.C. Cancer Foundation and getting more people access to the equipment they need sooner, participants in this year’s Goddess Run are helping those going through some of the worst times in their lives.
But Sunday’s big event isn’t just a reminder about the preventative measures we all should be taking – such as getting checked regularly, we should also be thinking about adding a little bit of exercise into our daily routines as a way to increase overall health and mood. The benefits have been proven beyond a doubt and there’s no point in arguing against them here.
If running isn’t your thing, there’s plenty of activities that will fit into many different busy schedules.
But if there’s only one thing you take away from this editorial, please, let it be the inspiration you need to talk with your doctor. Who knows, it may just save your life.