Ben, Congratulations!!!! What courage, endurance, strength, and persistence you possess! Words can't express how special it was sharing the Badwater course with you. We leapfrogged for a couple of days, from a little ways past Furnace Creek into Stovepipe Wells, and then into the Panamint Valley and into the descent of Father Crowley and into Keeler. Each and every time I saw your face, and that of your dad's, it was as if I was receiving an injection of life. Seeing you coming down from the Portals was a thrill I can't describe. I powered up to the Portals like there was no tomorrow. I knew that the discomfort I experienced due to gastrointestinal problems during the race would end soon for me as the race would come to an end eventually. For you, however, diabetes is a daily reality and a part of you. That you have come to embrace it and work in concert with all of its ups and downs shows a strength in character so rare for someone of such tender age. You are an inspiration and role model for everyone. Thank you for inspiring me to be my best. I wish you well on your future journeys and adventures and am proud to know you. Thank you, Scott, for helping me correct my electrolyte imbalance and other issues during the race. I couldn't have done it without you and the presence of your awesome son. Happy Trails, Connie Karras www.active.com/donate/con nieshotrun www.run100forcharity.info www.badwaterforum.org

said ConnieKarras1 2007.07.08 at 12:17:54 PDT