I think most of you know that my mom is dying from brain cancer. She will probably pass today or tomorrow. I am "scheduled" to run my first marathon a week from Sunday. I have already dealt with 2 unexpected "strains" of sorts, one about 6 weeks ago that I can sometimes barely feel, one just Monday when I apparently accidentally stressed a hamstring muscle, which is mostly better today, but I was not able to run the last couple of days. I have run the 26.2 mile distance once, September first, and 22 miles on Monday (when I must have strained my other leg). I worked hard to get ready for this marathon, but I can feel the physical elements of stress and grief in my body, and the drag emotionally, and I really don't know if I am asking for trouble and unreasonable struggle during the race if I attempt this. I can be stubborn. I know how to push through discomfort. I just don't know if this is a good way to try my first marathon! My mom and dad live near me, so travel for burial is not an issue.