It took me 29 days, from the day he passed away, but I was able to run 91 miles, 1 for each year of my grandfather’s life.
Previously, I mentioned that I had not seen much of my grandfather over the last few years of his life, but during this last month I felt more connected to him than at any time than I could recall during my life. I spent a lot of time thinking about him, the times that I had spent with him, and the fact that I will carry his name for the rest of my life.
I thought about the upcoming Brewers season and thought about the fact that even though we never went to any games together, that I will be taking part of him with me to every game I attend. I thought about how even though he had lost his legs in the last few years of his life, that it didn’t stop him.
My regret is that I just wish that it didn’t take his passing for me to realize that he has always, and will always, be a part of my life.
I know that I’ll keep running with him in the future, smiling while I think of him, and knowing that each step I take will be a bit easier because he is there with me.
Thank you for being a part of my life grandpa. You’ll always be in my legs, my mind, and my heart.