The Day we met “in the woods”!
Two Women – The bond between Cherie and Trena began when they literally met “in the woods!”, while running a trail marathon in 2014. Since then, the two have shared many miles, stories, and goals during their weekly runs. Cherie has played the role of motivator in her support of Trena, as well as many others looking to benefit from all-types of running. Cherie’s kindness and support for others consistently goes above and beyond.
Two-Challenges – When the two met, Cherie was on a journey to run a marathon in all 50 states, but now faces the most significant challenge of her life; having been diagnosed with a form of Kidney Cancer. She is now on the other side of surgery and faces six months of chemotherapy. Everyone knows someone who’s been through this difficult process. While Cherie and those around her face her next mountain head-on, Trena will be training for one of the world’s most challenging foot races. She is one of 2,500 runners chosen to run in the 105-mile Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB), a race that crosses portions of the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps over 46 consecutive hours. This race is an experience of a life-time and Trena is hard at work preparing for the August 31st race date. She has dedicated all of her training miles and her UTMB race to Cherie, and her battle with cancer.
One Goal – As destiny would have it, shortly after Cherie finishes her journey through six months of Chemo, Trena hopes to be crossing the finish line of UTMB for her. I kindly ask that you consider dedicating your miles, positive thoughts, and prayers to Cherie and her family during this difficult time. Be sure to check back for updates on their progress as these two women, with two challenges, reach one goal… success!
UPDATE
On July 18th, 2018 Cherie finished her last Chemo Treatment and “rang the bell”! It was a long and sometimes difficult journey for her, but she says the support of her family and friends are what saw her through it all. STRENGTH doesn’t come from what you can do, strength comes from overcoming the things you thought you couldn’t!
On September 2nd, 2018 Trena completed the UTMB race in Chamonix, France after 45 hrs and 52 minutes. It’s considered the toughest trail race in the world! It was during a very low point in the race, when Trena came into an aid station around mile 58 that a video cued up from the MARC running group. Trena saw Cherie in the video and knew she couldn’t quit. Just as Cherie had not quit, no matter how hard things were, quitting just was not an option. Both had learned that STRENGTH doesn’t come from what you can do, strength comes from overcoming the things you thought you couldn’t!
Two Woman! Two Challenges! One Goal! Success!
Trail Running 100 