By Kim Anderson
So I’m going to do something kinda nuts. I am going to do something I’ve never attempted before and had no reason to try. I’m going to test my patience, my tolerance for pain and my character. I’m going to want to give up. I’m going to need support. I’m going to run a half marathon in July (even though I’ve never ran a full mile without stopping) and I’m doing it in honor of a kid at Youth Homes. Some kid I haven’t met and probably never will. I’m doing this because I can’t come up with any more excuses. I’m doing it because I am in awe of what this kid will need to do to survive.
This kid will wake up each morning and might need to fight their urge to self medicate with drugs or alcohol. At age 4, 9, 15, 12, 17 ½ …they will need to overcome self abuse, self hatred, insecurity, chemical dependency, rape, incest, hunger, poverty, mental illness, ignorance, and negative role models that they happen to love deeply. At times they will feel small and alone and need to build themselves up with little or no support from family. And the amazing thing is they do overcome these things (or learn how to deal with them) with time, practice, self determination, love and support.
So, at age 37 I can no longer crack jokes about being middle-aged because I woke up one day and arrived here. After three kids, I have three real big reasons to get healthier. As I contemplate how hard it is to run 5 minutes in a row after a lifetime of never really (not kidding) exercising into a full sweat, I know it pales in comparison to what kids struggle with each day as they try to get healthier with the odds against them. Knowing the odds are against me too…no time, weak bodied and weaker mindset…I will do this, largely in part, because I know you will help me get it done. If I have your support, then that kid will feel the support of the entire community that has in a sense “adopted” them for now through the Youth Homes.
I’m asking you to join the Youth Homes Run 4 Kids team and run or walk the half or whole marathon on July 11, 2010. If you can’t do that, please give a donation. I need to raise $500 (although I’d like to raise more) and I would love your support. In the coming weeks, each team member is able to create their own firstgiving.com page to receive gifts easily. To find these and other information regarding the YHI Run 4 Kids team please go to www.youthhomes.com starting in March 2010 to learn how you can support me or another team member. To join the team yourself, contact Ramey Kodadek by phone at 406-721-2704 x222 or by email.
Kim Anderson is a new stay at home Mom of three. She recently “retired” from her desk job as the Development Director for Youth Homes Inc. Currently, Kim spends her days taking care of her three children and pursuing her passion in art. She is also currently volunteering to write a blog called, The Reluctant Runner as a member of the YHI Run 4 Kids Team that will participate in the Missoula Marathon on July 11, 2010.
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Go Kim! Thank you for all you are doing for the kids at Youth Homes!
Go, Kim, Go!
Kim,
I know the reluctant-to-buy-sneakers-for-fear-of-using-them feeling, the kind that stops me from listening through headphones, wearing my hair in a ponytail, and going to places where runners go. I might be persuaded to use my legs more. After reading your story and a pep talk with my hips I feel closer to the brink of “sign me up!” Your words are motivational and true. Youth Homes, the staff and kids have changed my life dramatically. I have seen the effects of our community wrapping around a child. In 2009 I was matched with a Youth Homes kiddo. Just tonight, while making her first batch of waffles, she said, “I’m really thankful for you.” I didn’t have to hear it to know it; she shows me everyday. I am thankful for her too. With the guidance from Youth Homes (Go Julie!) and permission to relate the best we can she and I have a special, safe relationship. We, the community, do make an incredibly positive difference in the lives of youth. By running, donating, parenting and more we show them how to be part of and feel proud of this amazing Missoula. We eventually get to run with them. That said, if our family of three isn’t in the race, we’ll at least be on the sidelines cheering on the YHI Race 4 Kids team.
That deserves a high-5!
Lindsey – thanks for the note…you guys are proof this relationship stuff works. Thank you for being a foster parent…its the biggest gift someone can give to the kids at the youth homes. You made me teary! And by the way…go get your shoes on, rock the headphones, throw the hair up and get out on the road sista!