47 years ago a man and a woman vowed to love each other. 
Last year, for the first time since their 37th wedding anniversary, they are together in body & spirit.

Together, my parents had 37 years of marriage before we lost my dad in 2004 suddenly, and unexpectedly to a heart attack at the young age of 57.  In October 2012, we lost my mom the same way - suddenly, and very unexpectedly to heart disease at the much too young age of 64.

My Dad was a truly great man. He was strong – a brilliant mind, a heavy fist, a courageous heart. He was a man with integrity, who's heart was just, frank and kind. He was the one to wear 'Paco' brand jeans or read the manual and do it himself rather than calling a professional. He was a man's man.. yet, he would tear up at a commercial of a baby laughing. He was silly, and had a great, witty sense of humor. He called everyone "my friend" and would strike up a conversation with anyone. Even when times were the hardest, he was never angry with life. In fact, he is one of the only people I have come across who would wake up feeling so blessed just at the fact that he was given a new day to live. He would make up songs and sing to me in the car so I know this to be true. He never gave up, he was a dreamer. He was a handsome man, the most incredible father, and a husband who's love for his wife serves as my definition of what true love is. 

My Momma, wow! She is a woman to strive to be like. She was strong – an unwavering ability to keep going, a voice that would stand up for herself, a faith that could not be shaken. She was an unbelievably caring, selfless, hopeful, generous, and loving woman. She was the one to buy too many ottomans or lamps because she got a good deal from work .. or overstock the freezer from her latest Costco trip. She worked harder than anyone else in my life … and for much less. She was a beautiful face and a smile that could brighten up a room. She always had the softest skin, the most soothing touch, and the most pleasant smell. She was a silly joke.. I mean cheesy humor, a mispronounced word when her nearly lost Louisiana accent came through, church every Sunday, a rosary before bed, and never could figure out how to control the TV. Her idea of being adventurous at a restaurant was.. "mmm.. That sound's good, I'll have what you're having" and she never missed an episode of her soap, All My Children. She was the most comforting, incredible mother and a wife, who belongs with her husband. 

Together, they have six kids, and are now up to 10 grandkids and 2 great-grandsons. Nearly 20 years into their marriage is when I was born. I didn't get as much time with my parents as I had hoped for but I am blessed and so thankful to have had them. I have learned that life doesn't always take your plans into account, and the future cannot be predicted. I have also learned from my parents so many lessons, tips, and qualities that have made me better. Most importantly, they taught me what it truly is to love. When I get to the end of this life, if I have the type of unconditional love, respect, and friendship that my parents shared, I don't see myself needing much more that that. 

So now – we must celebrate this love and follow their example of helping others – I am fundraising in honor of Rod & Margaret, my parents.  

I'm striving to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation and to bring awareness to such an important cause.  Heart disease is the UK’s BIGGEST killer as well as in the United States. Not many people realise that. And women are especially at risk, with more women suffering from heart failure than men… these are shocking statistics when you start looking at it, so do some research and dontate to my page - and help in the BHF's lifesaving effort.

In addition, these two incredible people, my parents, worked harder than most for their family and gave to everyone - but never took for themselves.  Neither of my parents ever were able to leave the States and I hope through my eyes, they are able to experience the beauty and awe of Machu Picchu - I know my Dad would love it. Momma too, just maybe not the heat. 

 

My first 10k - 5th October 2013; 2nd 10K - 7th May 2014

Trek Peru Inca Trail - May 2014