Part 1 of the Finish Line of Run Hope!

Hello wonderful friends! I am still having a hard time putting many things into words. It will take a few more days. I am still coming back from the lack of sleep. I still wake up at 4:30 am and find myself running in my sleep! My hearts yearns to continue running but my soul could not be with more peace, love and amazing joy being HOME!!! My family is here, my children are so wonderful. I still can't find the words to thank so many people ALL over America for all you have done for us. Our mission was complete and many children will have a much better life because of all of you. Below is the prayer that was read at the finish line of Run Hope. Pastor Ian Noyes wrote and read it to the crowd and it brought myself and so many to tears. I am left with unspoken words for now but can't wait to share our journey with you.
God Bless and love you all
Lisa Smith-Batchen
http://www.runhope.com/ YOU CAN STILL AND CAN ALWAYS MAKE A DONATION!!! PLEASE CONTINUE TO HELP THE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD

**Gracious God, there are none whose lives and hearts you do not see.
With love and compassion, you stand alongside the vulnerable and the broken...and you have made us to do the same - to join our lives to your purposes that healing and justice might more and more characterize the world you have made. Tonight we give you thanks for a team of people who have answered your call to address the needs of vulnerable children throughout our nation and the world. We thank you especially for Lisa who has with every mile born their loss and pain in her own body. We thank you for her commitment to share in your heart for orphans. We thank you for her tenacity, her endurance, and her reliance upon you for strength and comfort throughout these past two months.
And we thank you for the witness of this team to run hope through America.
For Sister Mary Beth..., for Mike and Julie Smith... and Mike Evans - for their tireless efforts to support, encourage, and facilitate this amazing achievement, for the countless and often thankless ways that they and others worked behind the scenes to make this possible.
We thank you for the hundreds who ran with Lisa to raise awareness about vulnerable and orphaned children, and we thank you for the thousands more who have been touched by Lisa’s passion and commitment. We pray now for fruit to be brought forth from these seeds that you have sown in human hearts. We pray that you would continue to be at work in us tonight to join this effort to bring hope to children who know little of home and less of family. Gracious God and Father be a Father to these children and awaken us to how we might also play a role in your work to heal and redeem and comfort.
Lord, we thank you for Jay and for Annabella and Gabby, who released Lisa for this
purpose these past two months. We pray their time together now would be all the sweeter for this season of absence. Deepen their relationships we pray and bless them. Heal Lisa’s foot and mend her body. Grant her sleep and rest from weariness. May she find peace in knowing that you take pleasure in her, your daughter, who has spent herself for your glory.
We celebrate Lisa tonight, but we also celebrate you who have gifted her so, and we pray that you would help each of us discover your call upon our lives. Help us to know your steadfast love and your purpose for each one here that we too might grow in compassion and give ourselves also to love one another with great abandon. Indeed, with you all things are possible and you promise that those...
who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint.
What an example you have given us tonight of one who has lived this hope.
Be glorified tonight we pray. Amen.

RHTA Hawaii

State 44 Hawaii completed in the shadow of Diamond Head on Waikiki Beach! Bob MacCallister and his HURT (Hawaii Ultra Running Team) members did a terrific job crewing Lisa and Sr. Mary Beth. They were like a NASCAR pit crew! They provided all that Lisa needed and got her out and running again before she even realized it! It was Lisa's fastest day so far. Perhaps Magic Island put its spell on RHTA! What a great place to run- that day there were 3 weddings, a run for Autistic children and a parade for King Kamaima- all on Magic Island.

My 48 hours on the Island of "Run Hope" by Tammy Brown

It was an adventure. I had a great time for two states with Mike Smith, Mike Evans, Lisa and Sister Mary Beth.

They live like sardines in that RV. I had always thought that it would be so much fun to travel that way, and it was for 2 days. But 62 days?

I showed up at the airport in Phoenix to meet Sister MB and Lisa at around 10:30 pm. Lisa was walking like she had been riding a horse for a week. They were both absolutely exhausted after 50 miles in Utah that day, then the flight to AZ. We made it to the hotel in time for about 4 hours of sleep, which they informed me was a long night of sleep for them. They were so grateful to sleep in a bed that wasn’t moving down the highway at 70 miles per hour. (Eventually, I would understand)

We arose at 4:30 am and headed over to the Freelife Headquarters in Phoenix. Colleen Rossi the AZ Captain was so helpful and wonderful. What wonderful, generous people that we spent the day with. Thank you everyone at Freelife! So after an interview, greetings, a prayer and quick route review, we were on our way! Smiling and only sweating a little, at 6 am and 90 degrees. The route was a concrete sidewalk through what I consider a busy street. Very little shade, very hard hot surface. Great camaraderie with the fun "Jule" people, Colleen, Eric, Robyn, Brian, Brennan, Scott, The fun "Chi" shirt guy, (sorry) and all the other people who joined in that day. I was about to experience what they had been doing for the last 40 days.

Lisa , Sister MB and the duo-Mike’s were amazing. Sister MB pounded out 20 miles in her black habit, then spent the rest of the day taking care of other people. Always helping others. Every time even I would come near the RV, Sister MB or Mike would ask if I needed anything. So nice. Mike Smith works all day long, keeping things going. Lisa has a long, long day. She starts off with a fast limping gait in her croc’s. Big smile on her face. The 15 of us on her tail can hardly keep up with her limping start. She changes shoes and grabs quick snacks during the day. That beginning limp evolves into a healthy run. I am amazed at Lisa's running. She visits with many people on the route, returning calls and messages too. She is trying her best to maintain the project as well as her family, life and business at home. She is the ultimate multi-tasker, all while completing her daily 50 mile ultra marathon. With 10 miles left to go, she turns on “her jets” and quickly finishes the final 10 miles while she is in her zone. She completed 50 miles, press, meeting people, visiting, resting and fueling all by 6:30 pm, and is rewarded with an ice bath. We had a wonderful party with the “Jule” people at Freelife and eventually we were on the road. I am sold on the products, especially the energy one! We stopped for a fast food dinner and were on our way to Las Vegas. We were in for a long drive.

We were riding in what I will now refer to as the “SS Jiffy Pop”.

I had watched the movie “UltraMarathon Man” in which Dean Karnazes runs a marathon in every state over 50 days. Pretty cool movie, amazing, inspirational feat which Dean completes with style. He raised funds for children and other projects. He is amazing, has inspired so many people. As a bonus to the movie viewers, Dean looks pretty good with his shirt off. I have to smile when I think of the differences in the ways that Lisa is traveling and the way UltraMarathon man traveled. If you get a chance….check out the luxury bus and private jets that he and his crew traveled on. There was almost no chance of shaking out a dental filling while traveling on Dean’s bus. The Run Hope Crew may need to see the dentist when they return home.

Anyway, the RV is great but it is loud and very bouncy. There is not much sleep had while driving after the runs each day. Sister Mary Beth was so kind to make a space for me on her bed. I had to laugh at first while my heart was in my stomach as we hit each small bump. One of my favorite memories of the trip will be enjoying the beauty of crossing Hoover Dam at 2am. Sister MB and I were like two little girls, it was an amazing sight all lit up and so quiet.

We arrived in Las Vegas around 3 am, parked for about 2 hours and tried to sleep. I must have fallen asleep because the next thing I remember is seeing Sister with a pillow over her head, leading me to believe that I may have been snoring. (So, sorry!)

We got up, and met Ernie Rambo to start our day in Las Vegas at 5:30 am. Ernie and all the LV people were wonderful. We met great people! Thanks to everyone who came out! The route was again a concrete path, but no traffic to fight through. It was nice, but another hot day in the high 90’s. My favorite miles were a few miles that we ran through KMART and Lowes. I seriously thought we might be arrested. What a sight and smell we must have been. Our pace through a busy Kmart was pretty impressive! We also did many miles around an indoor parking garage. It was a fun, but long hot day. I developed some blisters, which slowed me down, and I eventually wimped out in hopes of saving my feet for the following week in Montana and Idaho. Sister MB powered out her 20 miles with her usual smile and cheer. Lisa collected several dollars in change from the road over the day and ran her last few miles hard. My feet were really sore and I was assessing my damage when Lisa finished. She sat down and took off her shoes and socks. She too had new blisters, but she still had 400 miles more to go! Again, I realized……It was all relative. I could limp home and complain. She would be doing it all again the next day! Just like the movie GROUNDHOG DAY.

We had a quick ice bath, which felt great to me. Lisa had a much-needed massage from Rudi an 83 y/o massage guru. At around 7:30 pm it was time for “Jiffypop” to start heading to California.

I was done, time to go to my cozy hotel bed and a glass of red wine. Hugs all around then the crew went bouncing down the road. They all look so tired, they work hard. 9 more days, and they will be done. Only 400 more miles to run.

It is all relative. “Almost done” means that Lisa only has to run the distance between Driggs Idaho and Polson Montana.

God speed SS Jiffypop!

Thank you so much Run Hope Crew. Without Lisa, I would still be whining and not be running let alone covering 80 miles in 2 days!

This project is not about the running. It is about helping kids around the globe. I was able to spend time talking to Sister Mary Beth about the children that she works with all over the world. The orphanages can feed a child with 6 cents per day! I can help 58 kids per day if I give up one latte. (SMB didn't tell me that, I just really needed some coffee at the time). Talking to Sister MB makes it all real, she is the real deal. Her life is dedicated to helping children. Lisa and SMB are a great team fighting for kids, they just do it best with running shoes on. They "Just Do IT".

Lets donate if we can! How about the loose change that we can find in our drawers, cars, or more! Let’s help these kids.

Hope to see you all in Montana next Thursday June 17th!

Tammy

www.runhope.com

RHTA 42nd State Las Vegas, NV

Pictured above Riley and Richard (barefoot) running the last lap with me.

Thanks to Ernie Rambo our 42nd state run in Las Vegas was a great success! Thank you to all who came to run. Also, thanks to the people who stopped by to greet and wish Sister Mary Beth and I good luck with the project.

I’ve always said that when I have people around me that I know and that understand the experience and can give me my space, it changes my whole attitude and keeps me energized and motivated. This was certainly what happened in Las Vegas!

I was able to do my last laps so quickly because Richard was running ahead of me, and I would just kept listening to the patter of his bare feet to keep the pace.

Richard said that during the last laps he kept listening to my feet hitting the pavement that helped him set the pace!

I am so grateful for a massage given to me by Rudi! He is an 83 year-old master's division Olympian sprinter who also has given massages to Jack LaLane!

Thank you all for your prayers and kindnesses to me and the Running Hope Through America team. Continue your prayers as we quickly are approaching the end.

Love,

Lisa

What Will It Take To Finish?... A Lesson In Selfishness

Hi All --

Just to let you know, our new RHTA website is also a place for me to blog. Because of that I've been neglecting this blog... sorry for any confusion.

Thank you to all of the people who have come out to run with me, thank you to all the supporters, media, captains, friends and family – especially my girls who are on the RHTA team back home with their wonderful father and grandmother.

As some of you have read in my recent posts, I’m learning how to think about myself. I’m not saying that I’m a saint; it’s more of a selfish thing, really. I simply don’t know how NOT to be professional when people are around me and I’m in my element – running. I feel like I have to keep up with them, or slow down with them… I just feel like I must be near them. However, I am reaching the end of my rope.

I love that quote by Theodore Roosevelt: “When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.” This is exactly how I feel right now. My knot requires absolute focus… and my focus requires space. My foot is in pain, my knee is in pain, my body aches. Most days my spirits are high, but it’s a crap-shoot – I never know what the day will bring.

So, from now on, with only two weeks left before the big finish line in Idaho, I am learning the Art of Selfishness (which is actually a great book by David Seabury).

I am promising myself that next time someone wants to run with me for 25 miles and talk to me the whole time, I’m going to say, “I appreciate you, but NO”. And, next time someone wants to give me advice on how to raise my children while I’m running and already upset about missing them, I’m going to say, “I understand your concern, but NO”. And next time someone would like advice about their running form for a full ten miles while I need to focus on putting one foot in front of the other, I will say, “Trust your body, I have to focus on mine… and NO”.

People that know me, know that the last thing in the world that I want to do is appear unprofessional and/or unkind, however… the finish line and goal of RHTA is more important than any one individual at the moment… especially me.

I do worry about how people will view me. But, at this point the pain and journey takes precedence over almost everything else.

Will everyone understand? Will they get it and allow me my space to keep my pace and do my 50 miles everyday? I wish I could be sure.

“Anybody who's ever mattered, anybody who's ever been happy, anybody who's ever given any gift into the world has been a divinely selfish soul, living for his own best interest. No exceptions..”

–Richard Bach

Hmn… I’m going to have to work on it a little then.

Love,

Lisa

Our life these days on the road to HOPE

As St. Paul says, suffering leads to endurance which leads to hope.

Our experience these days we have come across many people who are suffering. Some externally who have suffered physically and many who are suffering internally, either from the death of a loved one or sickness that has ravaged their families.

But all, even though they are suffering they give us hope from their endurance.







My long time friend Dan Jensen who had his leg blown off when he was 21 from stepping on a land mine in Viet Nam came to run all 50 miles.

Lisa and Dan ran the Marathon des Sables together 13 years ago and Dan gave Lisa great strength during this run as she watched him run with one leg. Having two legs certainly put it all in perspective! This man is more than extraordinary, he has something so special that it can't be put into words.



On Nov. 5th last year Dan lost his beautiful wife Robin to brain cancer. Lisa found about this as she and Dan ran together in North Dakota. Lisa was very quiet all day and in such a somber place. She wanted to run the last 3-5 miles alone. Once the day was over Lisa had an out pouring of emotions thinking about Dan, Robin, their children and most of all the amazing love they shared for 35 years of marriage. Dan and Robin were always together at all the races and the joy they shared for life and love was always such a bright light for everyone. Lisa ran in Robins honor all day long and we will continue to do so as we run through the rest of America.

Suffering comes in so many forms these days, it puts life in perspective and reveals more than Lisa can bear at times. Her feet hurt but what is this in comparison to someone who has lost a spouse or a child? So many have lost jobs, homes and come to Lisa and Sister Marybeth to ask for prayers of hope.
Lisa said, "I am not suffering so others can have a better life". "I am suffering physically, emotionally and spiritually by choice to help others." At the end of the day I get a shower and a meal and perhaps a bed. At the end of the day so many have none of this.

We all have our sufferings at this very moment. What will you do about yours today? How can we help each other through to a newer and higher level?

Lisa has been helped by so many along her journey of HOPE.
Dan, Roy, Dale, Albert..all who have come to share their stories about suffering and stories about how they have or are getting through to the next level.

Taking an ice bath is NO fun you know, but it helps the suffering from the day on your feet.
Try it, you may find some wonder yourself in the cold hitting your skin!

We are praying for all who are suffering in all ways. Emotionally, physically and spiritually.
You will forever be in our hearts and on our minds as we continue our run through America for the children of the WORLD.

Love you all
Team Running Hope
CHECK OUT THE NEW WEB SITE
www.runhope.com

It's a Beautiful Day In Green Bay!

What a day it was in Green Bay on Friday...

We couldn’t have asked for a better day: Perfect temperature, not too humid, lovely run along the lake, and great energy and enthusiasm from everyone! Media came out to cover our efforts, which is always a blessing. The entire school of Wisconsin International came out! I ran about two and a half miles with them.

My running buddy, Roy Pirrung, came out as well and ran with me. He fed me inspiration and empathetic words for miles, and it was such a joy to be around him… Thank You Roy!

Sometimes, I feel that there can be a great distance between the rest of the world and me. The professional in me automatically separates in order to be able to handle the intensity of the task at hand. I think that sometimes it’s difficult for people who aren’t pro-athletes to understand the amount of stress and strain that must be overcome to complete a task (such as, say… running 2500-miles in 62 days).

But, I really felt that Roy understood. And, whether I’m correct or not in thinking this, I felt better for having someone around that I felt understood me to my core.

I felt exceedingly well. I’ve come through a major hurtle, not only on this journey but also on the journey of my life. God is testing me to my bones, and has provided clear answers to my questions through lessons: I’ve learned how to ask for help, how to say I’m not feeling well, how to stick up for myself, and most importantly, I’ve learned to accept situations and consequences as they are.

This was a day that I needed for me. I feel thankful, blessed and loved in this world again!

Love

Lisa

BE A PART OF THE CELEBRATION TO WELCOME LISA HOME!

Here in eastern Idaho, in breathtaking Teton Valley, we’re ready and anxious to welcome Lisa home. She’ll run in our neighboring Jackson Hole, Wyoming on Friday, June 18th with eagles soaring overhead leading the way and her human supporters lining the streets of Teton Village to cheer her on.

This will be a very emotional day for Lisa given her close ties to the Jackson community and the many close friends she and her husband Jay call their own in this iconic western town. However, nothing will compare to the Idaho welcome we’re throwing for Lisa, her running companion Sister Mary Beth and her on-road support crew, a team that’s been as critical for Lisa as her shear grit.

I wrote a blog on Lisa Smith-Batchen a few weeks ago...

Anyone who sets out to run 2,500 miles across America; 50 miles in 50 states in 62 days to be exact, kinda deserves a blog... and so much more. Wouldn’t you agree?

Anyone who knows Lisa personally, as I do, is inspired by her athletic resume. But seriously, 50 miles a day, almost every day?!

I’ve been thinking about Lisa’s latest conquest a lot lately but it’s hard to wrap my head around it. How could anyone, even someone as talented and committed as Lisa, achieve this insurmountable goal? I got part of my answer today on the phone as Lisa said, “it’s one mile at a time, and sure, while some days I feel desperately in need of God’s help, it’s my faith that sustains me."

"Everyone has their share of misery and feelings of helplessness; we just need to all find that inner strength, and be committed,” she continued (Haltingly. She was of course running as we spoke).

Committed she is, “Running Hope through America,” is a shared crusade to raise $1,000,000 for children; orphans, foster children and the homeless around the world. Visit www.runhope.com for information and more importantly, to donate, to the organization and the reasons why Lisa and Sister Mary Beth continue to run and run and run.

Early Saturday morning, June 19th, Lisa will don her worn running shoes for the last day of this journey and weave her way through idyllic Teton Springs Resort in Victor Idaho. Join her for a loop at .85 miles on a pedestrian path she has followed many times before (her 80 miles “80 for Haiti” run being the last) followed by a 8.5 mile trek through the quaint town of Victor and finishing at the historic Spud Drive-In nestled in Driggs, Idaho.

The party at the Spud promises to rock the Tetons! At this historic venue we’re pulling out all the stops for kids, and adults who want to feel like kids, with all the joy and raw emotions that will undoubtedly be in everyone’s heart & soul as Lisa crosses the finish line. We’ll laugh, sing, and cry, not just for Lisa but for ourselves. Safe to say we’ll all feel like we’ve completed our own journey of sorts, filled with an inner peace that somehow we’re all witness to something pure, and good and real. As Lisa will attest, it’s for the children... it’s all about the children.

Lisa will rest her weary head at Teton Springs Lodge & Spa this night, surrounded by friends, family and admirers. Sunday morning we’ll wake in the shadow of the Tetons, sip coffee on the green grass in front of the lodge with Lisa, Sister Mary Beth, friends and family. We’ll give thanks for all of our blessings and reflect on this one journey complete but imagine the many more to come. Won’t you join us? Lisa would relish having you there.

Teton Springs Lodge & Spa has set up a special arrangement for your visit. Call the nice people at 877.787.8757 – www.tetonspringslodge.com and mention “Friends of Teton Springs.” For party details, visit www.runhope.com. Hurry Lisa, we’re waiting!

Love You Always,

Suzie Bichon

Big LOVE in the Windy City!

The compassion that I have for myself has grown through this process. It seems like the more open I am to accepting my own pain and suffering the easier I can deal with it. I've learned to say my feet hurt, but somewhere else in the world someone's feet hurt more. I've learned to say I'm feeling upset, but someone else may be losing a loved one to hunger, AIDS, or another tragedy. The more I accept my pain, the more I can relate to others, and the more I learn from my beautiful life that's a shared work in progress.

Speaking of shared...

Chicago was Magic! Such incredibly positive energy! I had a substantial break through with a faster walking and running pace; we smoked the last 10 miles and clocked a 7:40 mile 48. My feet are feeling better and my emotions are in great form!

Many family members and old friends spent the day and really lifted my spirits! Chicago was very Hot & very Humid. Thank God for the lake breeze in the Windy City!

God answered our prayers and granted us a perfect day full of love, light and beautiful people. I am honored to run all day with our state captain and fellow ultra runner Adrian Belitu who's remarkable energy made my heart sing. He lifted me up with positive encouragement, recognized my sense of purpose and renewed my hope. God's love surrounded us today and it felt so pure!

Blessings,

Lisa

Read All About It!

Today's ARTICLE in the Chicago Tribune!

What's Your Gift? Just do it!

It’s day 27 and it’s been quiet today. As requested, people have given me some space for the past couple of days allowing me to breathe and get out of my despair on my own.

Today’s a new day and I’ve come back from the darkest dark that I’ve ever experienced in my life. I never gave up the faith and hope, but at times like these you can’t help but question it.

I’ve run marathon after ultra marathon, like the Badwater Double and the Marathon des Sables, but nothing has been as challenging as this. What makes it worthwhile is remembering all the people that can benefit from this – just a little bit of sacrifice on my part and others will have food in their bellies and options for life. It’s a small price to pay.

It’s been an emotional rollercoaster so far, and I don’t doubt that it will get any easier – although one does hope. One minute you feel like a peaceful warrior moving through space and as soon as you start feeling great about it all, you get smacked down to the ground again.

Thank God for Sister Mary. If she prays for my feet with Holy water, my feet are going to feel better! So, I have to keep my faith with her around; we agreed that I am allowed to ask questions if I want, they’ll always be answered!

Why are the wisest people around me right now children? I get the most inspirational, real, heartfelt and connected words from children. Two little sisters showed up with a sign in Kentucky the other day, saying something like, “Go Lisa!” Everyone knows that that day was a very challenging day for me. I was feeling horrible, things weren’t going well and I was on the brink of a breakdown. I thought, God, if you really want me to do this you have to pull me out of the darkness some way, some how.

A little while later the six year old came over to me while I was crying off in a corner somewhere. She said, “What’s wrong?”

Of course normally I wouldn’t show my emotions, especially to a six year old. But I responded with a question, “What do you do when you feel so down and out that you feel like you just can’t keep going?” She answered back, “Well, you made a commitment to help the kids, right?” “Yes” I said. To which she responded, “Then, I think you’ll be a little tired, but I know you can do it.”

I went up to the girl later and told her, “You have no idea how much you inspired me today… Thank you!”

Moving out of despair is not always easy. Our minds can become clouded, our bodies fatigued, our emotions will say NO to every offer of help. But, after the other day I’ve made a commitment to myself to be open to receiving help and advice, especially from children!

One word, good or bad, can change the path of your moment, week, month, year or life. Don’t ever assume that your words don’t mean anything. The smallest ripple in the sea can create a title wave. Greet people with a hug, a smile, say I love you, inspire them to have a better moment somehow.

When people feel inspired, their true gifts shine through. Those gifts can benefit millions. So never assume that anything you do is small and insignificant. Sometimes we need reminding of how amazing we are. You can remind me, and I will remind you...

Then we can take our gifts and spread them as a force of good across the planet to heal and help wherever necessary!

I’m doing my thing. Are you doing your gift? Do you even know what it is? Please find out and, as one of my sponsors says… Just do it!

With Love,

Lisa

More than Half Way Done!!!!

CORRECTION!!

Just a quick correction to the last post. I would not have bothered but it's a neat story. Good Shepherd School (below) was actually not having a coincidental fire drill as Lisa came by. I (Ashley) had called them (as planned early that morning without Lisa knowing) to let them know when Lisa was coming by, as the school was along the route. They fire drilled all of the kids out of the school FOR Lisa because they wanted to cheer her on as she was running through Frankfort, Kentucky. We are so proud of her and happy that we got to be her halfway mark! Thank you Good Shepherd School for your support, and for asking Sister Mary Beth to speak to you about our cause!

RHTA Day 25 Frankfort, KY

Memorable Fire Drill!
Good Shepherd School was having a fire drill just as Lisa and Sr. Mary Beth were passing by. What encouragement and great rounds of applause! Today Sr. MB spoke to the children of Good Shepherd School about the orphans that she and Lisa are trying to help.
It was a great day to run. Plenty of cloud cover in a peaceful beautiful city!

God, Give Me Grace... in Memphis

Today we’re in the 24^th location, Memphis Tennessee, on the journey of Running Hope Through America. We’re at the largest urban park development in the US, Agri-Center International.

It took 14 states to get into a rhythm and by the 20^th state, in Louisiana, I thought I was in great shape. All my aches and pains went away, and it was a significant milestone that my family, team and I celebrated. I guess I was wrong…

Over the weekend I got hit with fatigue, pain – both emotional and physical. Now I have to dig deep into the well of my personal process that I thought had dried up a while ago, thinking I had everything figured out. So, I have to ask myself, “What else is there for me to learn?”

Sister Mary Beth says that this journey, for me, is like the last year of a nun’s novitiate. She says that it’s this year that tests you the most, and the year that shows how attached you are to your ego. “Ego? I don’t have any ego about this,” I said. But after thinking about it, I know she’s right…

People come out for a day, maybe they’re marathon runners that have done 20 or 30 miles, and they are so excited that they get to do their first 50-mile run with me.

My feet are killing me, the balls of my feet especially, my legs, and my hips. With people around I feel like I have to perform – I’m a professional athlete after all. If you’re up ahead of me, I have to keep up with you, if you’re behind me I need to stay behind. I want people beside me when if we’re running together. And, I don’t want them to see the pain that I’m feeling inside.

Someone said, “50 miles? How hard can it be?” People forget, this is not a 50-mile run, this is a 2500-mile run broken down into 50-mile segments. They also forget that I’m doing this almost every day. They get to go home, relax, watch a movie, be with their families and recover the next day. I miss my children a lot, and after a hard twelve-hour day of running when I need them most, I get to try and relax in a bumpy, uncomfortable RV without them.

So, because of all of this I need to be left alone… just for today. I know that I have to take this breath by breath, one foot in front of the other… just keep moving forward, with Love.

My friends from Trinity Cross, Brian and Coleen Rossi, came out to Dallas on Sunday. What a day that was! When he showed up in his wheelchair and reached out to put his arms around me for a hug he said, “I can feel your pain”. I said, “Brian, my legs hurt.” He said, “Mine do too.”

This 13 year-old kid has been through so much more than most adults, he really does understand. He says, “I don’t know why God chose me for this, but he did; and to do this Run, he chose you.”

So many children and people in the world are suffering, and they do it with dignity and grace. I feel like I’m not doing that well today, or yesterday. I’m not suffering with grace, I feel tortured. But, Sister Mary Beth is the divine force behind our effort. She’s amazing, and I’m so lucky to have her by my side. I truly don’t know what I would do if she wasn’t here.

Our goal is a great one, $1,000,000 to save lives, feed children and make their lives better! I am most certainly grateful that people show up to run, it makes our effort come alive! But, PLEASE lovely supporters… remember this is a fundraiser! If you show up, please give something for the cause.

And… for the record: I never realized it was going to be this hard.

My orthopedist says that I can’t run today, or tomorrow… so I’m walking and jogging a little.

Thank you to all the people that support RHTA, please come and joint the race one day in your city if you can. Give what you can and show your support, help us to achieve a goal that will change the lives of thousands.

Love,

Lisa

RHTA 24th State Memphis, TN

Beautiful cool humid free morning at Shelby Farm Park here in Memphis. No sign of Elvis!

24 miles down in the 24th state! Lisa is moving at a steady pace but fighting fatigue and foot pain.

Tarrell, a young woman from the Orphan Foundation, came out to thank Lisa for all the good she is doing for the orphans.

Lisa's Uncle Monty and Cousin Ann also

dropped by to wish Lisa well on this venture.

And Vanessa, a free lance writer for Runner's World, interviewed Lisa and Sr. Mary Beth and did a few laps before leaving.

She feels very hydrated and raring to get to the end of this day. On to

Kentucky tomorrow.

How we KNOW Lisa is running 50 miles and fundraising

Thank you all for the comments, they are appreciated. God Bless you all.
To get the 50 mile distance each day we have a state leader who is marking a course for us. Most are an out and back or a loop.For the first several states Lisa did not even have a watch she only ran and walked on her best effort and we all marked the laps. It became clear that Lisa was running extra miles most days because even running to get the bathroom 1/4 mile in Central Park should count. Every step counts! In Maryland Lisa ran 52 miles and it was 97 and very humid. The courses have been googled and calculated the best people can and Lisa now wears her own brand new Garmin 310 that holds a charge for 20 hours. The Garmin is very accurate as far as we can tell with the distance, mileage and pace of each mile.This is not a race, this is not a world record attempt. To bring Guinness world book on board costs a great deal of money.At the end of the day Lisa's Garmin says 50 miles and when it says 50 miles......then we celebrate. This is one very difficult undertaking Lisa is doing. She is suffering with great sacrifice for many children and if anyone knows her heart,her desires it is God.For many days people ran all 50 miles with Lisa..all wearing a Garmin. This became exhausting and left me with great concern for Lisa's well being. Talking and listening all day is difficult although we are full of gratitude for all those who are coming to support. They are coming to be inspired but they are also inspiring Lisa and our team.We have Lisa now doing the first 15-25 miles with all those who show up. Then we send her off for 5-10 miles on her own and with her music. She then does all the last miles with many people or Mike on the crew. Pray she can continue to do this amazing run for the children, it is all for the children.
I am the one who has kept track of all the money raised over the last 18 year's with Lisa's running and the total is 4.5 million just as she says it is. You may consider coming to visit some of the places where the children are.If you have any questions you may also call me directly.916-202-6382 If anyone would like to match what Lisa has accomplished with her efforts we would love to have your help. $1 does make a difference. www.runhope.com
God Bless you
Team Running Hope and Sr Marybeth Lloyd

RHTA N.Little Rock, Arkansas

Sleeping under a bridge usually does not

have good conotations with it! But Lisa and her crew had a great night under the bridge in

N.Little Rock, Arkansas, near the stadium! We were able to park adjacent to the riverboat, Arkansas Queen. The running trail is beautiful and follows the river for miles with the availability of taking a bridge to downtown.

Thanks to Patrick, Sr.MB was able to attend the noon Mass at the Cathedral and see how life is here in downtown Little Rock.

Lisa has a few more miles and we will be on our way to Tulsa, Oklahoma!

Thanks for all of your help and support. Please ask your friends and relatives to go to

www.runhope.com to see how they might help the children.

RHTA Getting in Order

May 13th was used as a day to get all in order...even the rv...an awesome taks in 90+ weather and humidity in Louisiana...arrived late that night in North Little Rock, Arkansas on the Arkansas River. Thank you to all the sponsors that have given us all the shoes, shirts, socks, salt, monetary support,etc. to keep the run going...God bless you all.

ps send your friends to www.runhope.com

20 States and 1,000 miles

Hello wonderful friends and supporters of Running Hope To America. Lisa has run and walked 1,000 miles. The past 4 days have proven that Lisa is getting in shape as each day goes by.
The plan for Lisa all along was to be in shape, strong with core work and start this journey in shape but not in great shape. Seems crazy right? Lisa's thoughts were that she would be in shape by state 20, 1,ooo miles in the 2,500 miles. If she would have been in great shape she would have been over trained by state 20. It has proved to be working! Lisa ran her very best so far yesterday in Louisiana where she was surrounded by her family. What a joy to watch how this has all come together and how the plan Lisa made for herself physically, mentally and spiritually is working. The past week has been cold and then very HOT and HUMID..the worse the weather, the worse the conditions the better Lisa runs and walks. Really something amazing to watch. Lisa is now able to walk between 13.5-14 mph all the time and a 9 min. mile run seems easy. Most days it takes 10 miles of good walking to recover from the day before. In Louisiana Lisa knew it was going to get very hot and humid and was able to run and walk well the first 20 miles which blew us all away! The focus, determination and the power behind this project has blown us all away. The love, support and generous giving of people all over the USA has simply been touching. People are so good, we just need to step out and ask for help.
Many have asked about blisters??? what blisters? Lisa started with 3-4 small blisters but now has no blisters. Sister Marybeth prays over Lisa all the time and the magic between these two women is something extraordinary. The love of children and the will to suffer to see that others have a better life.
Sister Marybeth is running 20 miles each day. People from all over are coming to run and walk with both Lisa and Sister Marybeth. Lisa has asked that all who are coming to run with she and Sister to know that after the first 15 miles she will need space and to be on her own. It has become very difficult many days to deal with the heat and all the sleep deprivation that talking and even listening becomes draining. If you have questions for either Lisa or Sister Marybeth please ask them in the first 15 miles, when they take a break or at the end of the day. You can also post questions on the Running Hope To America facebook page.
We are so, so thrilled and inspired that so many are coming out each day in each state. Your support is beautiful and we are so blessed and thankful. If your goal is to run 50 miles with Lisa please know that after 15 miles you will need to either run ahead or behind Lisa on the course.

Right now on the road Lisa and Sister Marybeth are only getting about 4-4.5 hours a sleep each day. A day looks like this:
4:30 am wake up
5:30 start and then continue all day for 12-14 hours with few breaks for ice bath.
8:30 pm eat dinner, shower, stretch and get ready for the next day. Drive to the next state,
Lisa is not able to sleep well at all in the RV with the moving so she falls asleep around midnight when we arrive to the next state. There are some long drives ahead of us. We ask you all to pray for the safety of the crew, that we can stay on schedule and that we continue to get the word out about the orphans.
We are still in need of a few hotel rooms along the way, plane flights to Hawaii and Alaska. If you can help or know anyone who can please let us know.
Below are some photos from the run..The one of Sister Marybeth and Lisa is at the 1,000 miles!!!!
God Bless and Love you all.
Team Running Hope!