Finish The Race

Derek Redmond was a British National Champion Sprinter. He was in Barcelona for the Olympics to run the 400-meter race. Having had the best time he was favored to win. However, halfway through the race he tore his hamstring. Pushing away from the stretcher he stood up, hobbling to finish the race. Despite the pain, he knew what he had to do. His father was in the stands pushed through security to help his son. “You know you don’t have to do this.?” “Yes, I do.” his son replied. “Then we will do it together.”

My friend Joel Napolitano runs a natural bodybuilding event called WNBF Green Mountain Thaw. Great show held during March in Brattleboro, Vermont. I was in the final stages of my transplanted kidney failing when Joel approached me and extended the opportunity for me to do the show. I didn’t hesitate to say, yes. I needed something to focus on while going through the difficulties of kidney failure. I told him of my situation and committed.

I was so sick at times, but the knowing of my committing and drive of wanting to bring my best kept me going. Yes, there were times when I wanted to renig, but the help from Chris Morley at Portland Nutrition Center carried me through.

I was so sick. So sick I couldn’t walk without feeling as if my soul was leaving my body. I had difficulty breathing and extreme weakness. I was in two events and the competition started. I participated in the first category and felt “good enough” while onstage, but as soon as I went off stage, I knew my body was in trouble. I told Lynn who was helping me that I couldn’t go back out. I was exhausted. One of the competitors yelled that we should line up. I turned to him out of exhaustion and anger, and said under my breath to shut up! No one had called for us to line up. Just as my spirit was about to shatter, Joel walked up to me and said; “How are you doing buddy?” I said ok, but I’m sure my expression said no. He said; “Will, there is no rush. I will hold up the show and wait for you no matter how long you need. You’ve done well, buddy. You’ve got this.”

I received a hand on my shoulder……….

I received a blessing from the touch of his

hand…..

I received healing…..

I received a renewed strength!

I rested a while longer telling Lynn, “I think I’m ready.” “Will, you don’t have to do this.” “Yes, I can do this. I must.”

I went on to finish and received second place. The winner was happy, (congratulations), but after realizing what I was going through he knew I had won. Not the first place trophy, but the hearts and admiration of others. I was a dead man walking and I finished the race! I finished the race because I had a great pit crew that kept me strong by challenging me with a goal. By placing my arms around their shoulders, caring me to the stage. To let me walk out on my own and finish.