If you are reading this because you were excited by my Facebook post of "big announcement", please be prepared to be woefully disappointed. But for those of you who are interested, which probably includes my wife and maybe the dog (and his interest is questionable), my athletic career is slowly winding down (probably better described as a screeching halt, like a big, fat locomotive that just slammed on the brakes). I can hear all the cries of disappointment and I appreciate your love, but I just can't go on any longer (I'll spare you the professional athlete excuses of "wanting to spend more time with my family," or "I've accomplished all I want to accomplish in the game," because I have always spent time with my family, that's why I run at 5:30 a.m. and I haven't accomplished ANYTHING in running!) However, I have committed to running the Nashville Half-Marathon for the purpose of raising money for the People for Care and Learning, a great organization that is doing amazing work for the people of SE Asia (http://www.peopleforcare.org/), and I plan to see that through, so consider supporting my efforts by giving whatever you might afford to www.active.com/donate/pclrunforhope/mattryerson.
I mean, seriously, if I can get up at 5:17 a.m. (by an old habit, I must set my alarm clock on odd number NOT ending in 5 . . . yes, it sounds crazy and my wife would agree with you, but that's a different story), run on a treadmill for an hour and 15 minutes in total pain, couldn't you find it in your heart to support these courageous efforts with a small donation (how about that for an awesome guilt trip, how could you say "no" to that)?
Unfortunately, the back problems I suffered two years ago in my training for Nashville have struck again. I have throbbing pain running down my lower back, into my hip and all the way down to my knee. Now if you are one of my doctor friends (of which I have none), I know you'll probably say, "Go get that checked out!" And I will relieve your concern by saying, I have. I know what the problem is at it isn't fixable except by surgery and I am not willing to submit to back surgery at this point.
You ever hear the joke of the guy that goes to the doctor and says my elbow hurts when I move my arm like this (imagine this guy twisting his arm into an awkward position behind his back) and the doctor simply says, "Then don't move your arm like that." Well, that is the solution to my problem. My back hurts when I run, the solution is to stop the pounding on my back and hang up the running shoes. So, once Nashville is over, I'll solve this pain problem and stop doing the thing that causes the pain . . . running. It is true. You won't see my blazing speed on the treadmill at the Y or at the Greenway (which shouldn't be missed, since I didn't have blazing speed to start). Yes, I am retiring. The fat guy (me) is singing. Thanks for your support along the way (and for not laughing at me as I plod along) and if you feel really sorry for me, show me by giving to the above cause (another sorry guilt trip, don't you love it?)
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