Sunday, September 28, 2014

Salad Sunday-Chinese Chicken Salad

I usually do my cooking for the week on Sunday. Because I was in Phoenix last weekend for the Paratriathlon National Championships, I did not do my usual weekend cooking.

I got home late Tuesday, So later in the week, I found myself grocery shopping after working out.
I picked up a rotisserie chicken from the deli. I had thought about getting Chinese take out. It's tough to find time to cook during the week. Because by the time I work out and check e-mail my evening i pretty much done.  The chicken from the deli was a great solution. A bit healthier than take out and cheaper considering how many meals it makes for m.
 Paired with vegetables and some mashed potatoes it is an easy meal. I used part of that chicken for this recipe.  Hope you like it.



3 cups shredded Napa cabbage
1 small can bean sprouts
1 can sliced water chestnuts
3 stalks of celery chopped
2 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken
3 green onions sliced
¼ cup slivered almonds

Sauce
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger

Combine all ingredients except almonds and sauce in large salad bowl.
In a small bowl mix  together the sauce ingredients.

Pour sauce over vegetables and toss vegetable mixture to coat.  Sprinkle almonds on top right before serving.

Serves 6

***************************
Author at PATCO Dallas 2014

Chris Wodke
Founder & Manager Team CMT
www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  She was the 2012 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division. In 2013 she qualified as a member of the Team USA Duathlon Team and was eligible to compete in 2014 at the Age Group World Duathlon Sprint Championship in Pontevedre Spain.  She chose instead to represent the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete.

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6


Team CMT  is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMT. We have 159 members in 30 states. We also have members in Australia, Scotland, Canada, Vietnam, Turkey, Finland and Iran. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org


CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Additional Link
Follow CMT affected Paratriathlete Timmy Dixon
http://cmtamputee.wordpress.com/

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing


Saturday, September 27, 2014

Super Food Saturday Apple Crisp Smoothie


It's fall in the midwest, my favorite time of year.  The weather is just perfect for working out.  The fall foliage is a great backdrop for a long run or bike ride.  To do my long workouts I need to eat a healthy breakfast and on the weekends that usually means some kind of smoothie.

Runner's World had a great feature this month on healthy smoothies you can make yourself. So expect to see some of these in the coming weeks.  I like always modify mine a bit.  Today's entry is perfect for a beautiful fall day.  All kinds of great fall apples are now available. I think if I made this again I would include half an apple to thicken the drink up a bit.

Be sure you have a blender that is capable of crushing ice.  I got my blender for $1 at a rummage sale about 20 years ago. It has a super strong motor that has no problem with the ice.


Apple Crisp Smoothie



1 Cup fresh natural apple cider
¾ cup unsweetened Greek yogurt.
¼ cup old fashioned rolled oats
2 Tablespoons chopped pecans
1 Teaspoon apple pie spice
1 Cup ice cubes

Put cider and yogurt in blender. Blend on high for 30 seconds.  Add oats, pecans and spice and blend for 30 seconds.  Add ice cubes and blend on high for about 2 minutes or until ice cubes are all blended.  Pour into a glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick.


1 serving
409 calories
Superfood: Greek Yogurt, Oatmeal

Greek yogurt is high in protein.  Oats provide beta-glucan, a fiber that may improve performance for endurance athletes.

*******************
Author at PATCO Dallas 2014 competing for Team USA

Chris Wodke
Founder & Manager Team CMT
www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  She was the 2012 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division. In 2013 she qualified as a member of the Team USA Duathlon Team and was eligible to compete in 2014 at the Age Group World Duathlon Sprint Championship in Pontevedre Spain.  She chose instead to represent the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete.

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6


Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMT. We have 154 members in 30 states. We also have members in Australia, Scotland, Canada, Vietnam, Turkey, Finland and Iran. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org


CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Additional Link
Follow CMT affected Paratriathlete Timmy Dixon
http://cmtamputee.wordpress.com/

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing


Saturday, September 20, 2014

National Championship-Just Du it!





"But I realize that winning doesn't always mean getting first place; it means getting the best out of yourself." -Meb Keflezghi,  New York and Boston marathon champion

When I talked to my current coach Heather Haviland about coaching me, she asked me about my goals and as I planned my season the Para-triathlon National Championship was circled on my race calendar as my "A" race.

I had hoped with the new classification system to be be racing in one of the 6 classified paratriathlon divisions. I continue to be shut out and will once again race in the PC Open division.  It is ironic to me that everyone with CMT that can make it through classification cannot make the time standard. You need to do a sprint triathlon in 1 hr 46 minutes. I can easily make the time standard, but I'm told I'm too strong.

No matter, I've trained and raced all season to be ready for the race tomorrow. It's been a frustrating season for me. Even though I placed well in races, my bike times have been slower all season by 10 minutes or more. I was frustrated because I was not getting the best out of myself.  I did not want to be one of those athletes that blamed equipment, but I was struggling on the bike. I felt the bike was fighting me and I was slow. Just to be sure the problem was not with me I had blood tests. Iron and all other measures were OK.

So I had my bike re-fitted by local triathlete and Olympic medal winning cyclist Brent Emery.  Several hundred dollars later, I was ready to test my bike out in a local bike race for the Wisconsin Senior Olympics. Brent was on the sidelines coaching his wife Julie at the race.

In the 10 K time trial and 20 K road race I averaged 17.7 mph and I qualified for the National Senior games next year. Even better, I felt fast and fantastic on the bike. After a season of bike struggles, I had sorted it all out before my most important race of the year.

I was supposed to write out my race plan for my coach this morning, but I am not sure what race I will be doing tomorrow.  Due to recent rains and floods Tempe Town lake may not be safe for swimming. The E- coli level yesterday was 10 times the allowable rate. As you see from the picture, the green scum, dead fish and debris make it unappealing for swimming.

We will know today at the mandatory race meeting if this will be a triathlon or converted to a duathlon.  Whatever race it is, I will do my absolute best. I had a short bike ride today and was easily hitting 18 mph on an easy cruise. I'm ready to have fun  and put my best out on the course. It doesn't matter where I finish.

Anyone can be put in the PC Open division. It is hard for a CMT affected athlete to compete against tandem riders or those using hand cycles or racing wheelchairs on the run. I cannot control that. I did what was under my control all season but completing the training my coach planned for me. I even got through most of it the last three weeks as I fought a sinus infection.

I do know I've done everything I need to do to get ready and bring out my best racing self.  Even better is I will be racing with Team CMT member Alyson O Connor. I'm rested and ready. See you at the finish.


*************************
hris Wodke
Founder & Manager Team CMT
www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  She was the 2012 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division. In 2013 she qualified as a member of the Team USA Duathlon Team and was eligible to compete in 2014 at the Age Group World Duathlon Sprint Championship in Pontevedre Spain.  She chose instead to represent the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in DallasTexas.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete.

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6


Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMT. We have 154 members in 30 states. We also have members inAustraliaScotlandCanadaVietnamTurkeyFinland and Iran. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org


CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Additional Link
Follow CMT affected Paratriathlete Timmy Dixon
http://cmtamputee.wordpress.com/

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing

Friday, September 19, 2014

Boston Marathon 2015 Yes or No?

Team CMT members Chris Wodke and CJ Charboneau - Boston 2014 participants


"You want to set a goal that is big enough that in the process of achieving it you become someone worth becoming." - John Rohn, self made millionaire and success coach

I've been sick for just about 3 weeks with a sinus infection.  It started as the worse sore throat I've even had and lasted for weeks.  The worse part of being sick for me it the fatigue. I drag myself through work and then my workouts.  I even took off a half day sick, something I have only done once or twice in my 15 year career with my current employer.

It's also been CMT awareness month and I've been working everyday sharing HNF posts and other CMT related material on facebook.  So there hasn't been any time left to blog. I didn't even post recipes this weekend. Besides being sick, I was busy packing to come to Phoenix for the Para-triathlon National Championship.

Registration for the Boston Marathon opened on September 8th and for the first time in 3 years I won't be training for Boston or really for any marathon.

It was a really tough decision. I never ever expected to run the Boston Marathon.  Boston has a strict time standard and only the very best runners have the honor of toeing the line in Boston.  You can be accepted as a charity runner, otherwise you have to run a qualifying marathon in the goal time. The time is 6 hours for athletes that have conditions like CMT that prevent them from making the standard set for age group athletes.  It is tough for most athletes with CMT to make the standard. We CMT affected athletes earn our spots.

When I was diagnosed with CMT I set the goal to run Boston to raise awareness for CMT.  I couldn't believe a condition over 155,000 Americans have could be so unknown.  I can't change the way CMT affects anyone's life, but I can at least give them the dignity of recognition of  their CMT.

When I lined up  for my Boston qualifying marathon in Madison I did not even know if my CMT would still allow me to complete a marathon or even in the needed time.  I learned that I was able to complete the training and complete a tough course under rough conditions.

Team CMT member Joyce Kelly helped me education the Boston Athletic Association about CMT and how it affects athletes. We were able to pave the way for CMT affected runners like CJ and Richard Cook.

It has meant more to me than I can ever express to see others with CMT that big things like running the Boston Marathon are possible  Setting a tough goal and achieving it has changed me in profound ways.

I know almost anything is possible and that the biggest limits I have are the ones I set for myself.

Deciding not to run Boston was really tough. Running the Boston Marathon these last three years have been the single best years of my life as an athlete.  The people of Boston treated me like an elite athlete. They cheered for me like I was Meb crossing the finish line.  The fans along the course cheer  for the last runners as hard as the first runners. The people of Boston warmly welcome you to the city they are so proud of.

I had really only planned to run Boston once.  The race my first year had temperatures around 90 F. It was a brutal experience. I came back for year two to have a good time running Boston and when the bombings happened I vowed to come back to support the people who made me feel like a rock star.

I had a great race last year. My coach had me so ready. It was probably the best time I've ever had running a marathon. I felt strong and the crowds were incredible. We took back the marathon and I'm proud I was a part of this historic race.

Both my coaches have advised me to stop running marathons. It is really hard on any runner, especially one affected by CMT. I loved the training. At heart I am a long distance runner. I love the challenge, I love the solitude of a long run. I always say whatever happens in my life, I will be OK if I can run and if I can write.

Doing the training to run Boston has changed me as a person. It has taught me if I have a dream to go after it with passion and determination.  I still have fears and doubts like anyone else, I just don't let those fears keep me from pursuing the things I want in life.  I don't listen to anyone that tells me what I can't do.

Running Boston has been great for raising awareness. We've gotten lots of media coverage. The best part have been the other CMT athletes I 've met as part of the process. It was incredible to see CJ achieve her Boston dream this year. Who ever thought anyone with CMT would run Boston?  This year we had two CMT affected athletes in the race. I am so proud of CJ, it was an honor to have her represent Team CMT.

But I reached the decision it may be time to put marathon running away at least for awhile.

 Every time I run Boston I seem to pick up another chronic injury.  Both my coaches have advised me to give up marathons.  I've decided to finally listen.  I can't argue that it's hard on my body.  You have to have passion and desire to train for a marathon. I have to honestly say I know longer have the fire and desire to run Boston this year. I don't have the desire to fight the injuries or to spend the time training for a marathon.

When I was first diagnosed I told my doctor that running long distance was getting increasingly difficult.  I told her I planned on transitioning into triathlons.   This weekend I will be lining up for my third para-triathlon National Championship.  It will be the 7th National Championship race I've done in triathlon and duathlon. So I guess my transition is complete. I never ever thought I would compete at a National Championship. This year there will be two of us with CMT in the race.  I am so proud of Team CMT teammate Alyson OConnor. She will be competing with me in the PC Open division.

So while I am saying no to Boston, I am saying yes to making a serious run at triathlon. I want to see just how good I can get. I'm looking forward to the journey. By the end of this season I will have qualified for World Championships in Duathlon and Aquathon.  I can't pursue these and make another run at Boston. There is just not the time and money to do all three.

I'll still continue to build CMT, write about my experiences as a CMT affected athlete and continue to raise awareness of CMT. It is why I started all of this. I had retired from competition prior to my diagnosis. My CMT has given a purpose to my competition.  So no to Boston, but more time for triathlon and CMT related work.

*****************
Chris Wodke
Founder & Manager Team CMT
www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  She was the 2012 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division. In 2013 she qualified as a member of the Team USA Duathlon Team and was eligible to compete in 2014 at the Age Group World Duathlon Sprint Championship in Pontevedre Spain.  She chose instead to represent the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in DallasTexas.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete.

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6


Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMT. We have 154 members in 30 states. We also have members inAustraliaScotlandCanadaVietnamTurkeyFinland and Iran. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org


CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Additional Link
Follow CMT affected Paratriathlete Timmy Dixon
http://cmtamputee.wordpress.com/

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing

Sunday, September 7, 2014

Salad Sunday- Zuchinni Apple Salad


This week's salad is a lot like last week's recipe.  I had zucchini left over from my trip to the farmer's market. So I changed up the other ingredients to create a new salad.  You can do the same with the ingredients you have at home.

Zucchini Apple Salad



3 small green zucchini
2 Gala apples, cored and chopped
1 cup Craisins
1 cup golden raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Dressing
3 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate
3 sprigs of fresh oregano, leaves removed
½ cup olive oil
½ cup balsamic vinegar


Put the cut apples in a bowl and mix in the lemon juice. Set aside. Use a spiral slicer to create long noodles from all three zucchini. Put into large salad bowl.   Add apples, raisins and Craisins.  Make the dressing by adding all the dressing ingredients to a bowl and stir until blended.  Pour dressing over vegetable mixture. Top with the walnuts.
Makes 4 servings


 *******************************
Author on left after 2014 Boston Marahon

Chris Wodke
Founder & Manager Team CMT
www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  She was the 2012 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division. In 2013 she qualified as a member of the Team USA Duathlon Team and was eligible to compete in 2014 at the Age Group World Duathlon Sprint Championship in Pontevedre Spain.  She chose instead to represent the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete.

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6


Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMT. We have 154 members in 30 states. We also have members in Australia, Scotland, Canada, Vietnam, Turkey, Finland and Iran. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org


CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Additional Link
Follow CMT affected Paratriathlete Timmy Dixon
http://cmtamputee.wordpress.com/

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing

Saturday, September 6, 2014

Super Food Saturday- Homemade Sports Drink

Homemade Sports Drink

 
My Selfie for the HNF Awareness Campaign

The first recipe is adapted from Runner’s World Magazine. Commercial sports drinks are often full of sugar, artificial colors and additives. If you are looking for a more natural option to fuel your long workouts, try one of the listed options.
I’ve used when doing long distance training.  The rule is you need to supplement with nutrition for workouts longer than an hour.  When doing longer workouts especially in heat, you need to replace electrolytes.

Home Brew Sport Drink #1
2 cups filtered water, more to taste
2 fresh medjool dates, pitted.
2 teaspoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon lime juice (you can use lemon or orange)
¼ teaspoon sea salt

Place all items in a blender and blend on highest setting for one minute. Strain mixture through a metal strainer lined with a paper coffee filter.

153 calories
42 grams carbs
4 grams fiber
0 gram fat
485 mg sodium


Home Brew #2- Coconut Water

This one is really easy.  I buy coconut water in the can or box. Each box is about 12 ounces. Pour the water into a bike bottle (which is what I carry when I run) add 1 tablespoon of honey.  You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar.  That is hit. I have heard of some runners adding chia seeds. I’ve not done that, but I did use this recipe when I trained for the Boston Marathon.

********************************************************************

Author representing Team CMT at PATCO Dallas 2014


Chris Wodke
Founder & Manager Team CMT
www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  She was the 2012 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division. In 2013 she qualified as a member of the Team USA Duathlon Team and was eligible to compete in 2014 at the Age Group World Duathlon Sprint Championship in Pontevedre Spain.  She chose instead to represent the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete.

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6


Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMT. We have 154 members in 30 states. We also have members in Australia, Scotland, Canada, Vietnam, Turkey, Finland and Iran. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org


CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Additional Link
Follow CMT affected Paratriathlete Timmy Dixon
http://cmtamputee.wordpress.com/

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

My Passion

My Passion



I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.”- Mother Tersesa

I’ve promised myself to do something every day this month to raise awareness for CMT. 
In yesterday’s blog I wrote about the #Unselfies4CMT Text-to-Give campaign.   In case you missed the blog here is the link that explains it all.


You can donate via cell phone, download the UnSelfies flyer and post a picture just like I did. Then of course I shared it on Facebook and challenged three people to do the same.  I hope you will do the same.  Let’s make this as viral as the ALS campaign.

As you can see by my photo, my passion is raising awareness for CMT. I couldn’t believe when I was diagnosed that I’d never heard of Charcot-Marie-Tooth or CMT.  I would experience that over and over again as I told people about my condition. Seems most had not heard of CMT, including many of the medical professionals I talked with.

I have lots of passions: racing, running, swimming, biking, writing, skiing, etc.   I’ve used most of those passions for my greatest passion, raising awareness of CMT.   I think raising awareness is the first step to treatments and a cure. Research and programs cost money. It is difficult to raise money for a condition no one has ever heard about. I think one of the reasons the ALS ice bucket challenge was so successful was that everyone has heard of ALS and has an idea of what it is. The other part of the challenge that helped was calling someone out to participate and using social media.

Sharing our passion, using social media and getting others involved will make this challenge successful for us as well. Will you sit on the sidelines or will you participate?

Because raising awareness of CMT is my passion,  I started Team CMT, set a goal to run the Boston Marathon and wrote a book about my experience. I’ve spent countless hours and dollars promoting the cause and CMT awareness. I don’t do it for attention. I don’t really like being center stage. I do it because I feel called to do it. I feel very blessed to be so active and I wanted to share my gifts to make a difference, even if it is a small difference.

 I got involved because I know I am one of the lucky ones. My mom always used to quote the Bible verse; “To whom much is given, much is expected.”  Maybe no one else expected it of me, but I expected it from myself. I think God gave me these talents to benefit others.  Anyone that suggests otherwise does not really know me.

I’ve always said the world is divided into sitters and doers. I’ve made the choice to be a doer. I hope you will join me. It’s ok to be a sitter.  Sometimes the time is not right or the cause does not fit your passion. Sometimes with CMT you may not have the energy or even the funds to help.

Often sitters are quiet cheerleaders for the rest of us. What I find that sometimes happens in the CMT community is some sitters throw stones at the efforts of others. They do nothing to help raise awareness or funds, but are quick to criticize those that step forward.  I had that happen just a few days ago.

I posted a video about Team CMT to kick off awareness week.  Mary, a woman in one of the CMT Facebook groups said she would not share it because it was a slap in the face to people with CMT.  The disturbing part was that five others liked the post. She directly attacked my effort and others cheered her on.  
She did not like the video because it was too upbeat and downplayed CMT. The text came right from the CMTA site.  We have 46 CMT affected member of Team CMT. For us being active and sharing our passion for sports to raise awareness is a very real part of our CMT experience. We all realize we are the lucky ones.  We are fully aware that most with CMT cannot do what we do. We run, bike, swim and walk for them.  We use our talents to give back to the CMT community.

It is ok to be on the sidelines, but I don’t think it is ever ok to throw stones at the efforts of others trying to raise awareness.  Let others use their passions in a way they see fit. Who are you to judge? Who are you to strike out at someone else out of your pain and frustration?

I’ve seen it happen to others, it has happened to me more than once.  I’ve been called a fraud and an elitist and even threatened with being slapped, all by members of the CMT community. I’ve been told because I help the HNF I stand in the way of a cure.

 I’m trying to help. Don’t be one of those people. That negativity is contagious. Those types of actions may stifle someone from stepping forward. If you cannot support an effort or join in, then don’t attack our honest efforts to help.

We need to support those in the CMT community that are using their passions to raise awareness and funds for CMT awareness. It should not matter whether they work for the CMTA, HNF or MDA.  You may not share our passion or vision, but please don’t denigrate and criticize those of us trying to help.

What should count is their passion and efforts to support a cause so important for all of us that are affected by CMT and for our affected friends and family members.  Raising awareness, using our passions, supporting those affected with CMT……all ripples in the pond that will lead to recognition, treatments and a cure.


*********************
Author representing Team USA PATCO Dallas 2014

Chris Wodke
Founder & Manager Team CMT
www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  She was the 2012 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division. In 2013 she qualified as a member of the Team USA Duathlon Team and was eligible to compete in 2014 at the Age Group World Duathlon Sprint Championship in Pontevedre Spain.  She chose instead to represent the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete.

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6


Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMT. We have 152 members in 30 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, Vietnam, Turkey, Finland and Iran. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org


CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Additional Link
Follow CMT affected Paratriathlete Timmy Dixon
http://cmtamputee.wordpress.com/

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing





Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Text to Give to CMT


Today is day 2 of CMT awareness month.

Watch the video to learn about CMT and how you can help.

Text "CMT"

to 501501

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKmDeIGE4gI&feature=youtu.be


***********************

Chris Wodke
Founder & Manager Team CMT
www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  She was the 2012 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division. In 2013 she qualified as a member of the Team USA Duathlon Team and was eligible to compete in 2014 at the Age Group World Duathlon Sprint Championship in Pontevedre Spain.  She chose instead to represent the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete.

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6


Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMT. We have 152 members in 30 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, Vietnam, Turkey, Finland and Iran. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org


CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Additional Link
Follow CMT affected Paratriathlete Timmy Dixon
http://cmtamputee.wordpress.com/

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.

CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing

Monday, September 1, 2014

Goodbye to Summer


Hoyt Park Pool


“Life is like a river, if you are aiming for a goal that isn’t your destiny, you will always be swimming against the current.”- from the movie “Men who stare at goats”

It's Labor Day and that means the end of summer for me. Here in Wisconsin the weather will begin to turn cold soon. Fall is a beautiful time with cool nights and beautiful fall colors.
Today was the last day for swimmng at Hoyt Park pool.  I discovered this outdoor pool when I met my coach for some individual swim lessons.  The pool was once part of the Milwaukee County park system. When the county decided to close the pool, local residents stepped forward to save the pool. They raised the funds to renovate the pool and even added a beer garden for after hours enjoyment. 
This is just the kind of grassroots efforts we need in the CMT community to raise awareness. I'm beginning to see that happen and it is really exciting.
I joined because it was so wonderful to do my laps outside.  Someone mentioned a few days ago I had a great tan. It was from all the laps done outdoors. I even did a workout in the rain a few days ago.  I enjoyed my last few workouts since I will be locked up indoors for months.
My swimming made great progress this year due to the fun of swimmning at Hoyt Park and open water swims at Pewaukee Lake.  The one on one coaching I got improved my technique and increased my confidence.
Last year I never did more than one lap at open water swim and I missed most of the weekly sessions due to fatigue. This year I made most weeks and most of those weeks I did four or five laps.
I've improved enough that I've signed up for the National Aquathon Championship in El Reno, Oklahoma.  It is a 1500 meter swim, double the distance I am used to.
So even though Summer is over for me, my triathlon season is far from over. I will also be competing in just a few weeks at the Paratriathlon National Championship in Tempe Arizonia.
I'll be joined by Team CMT member Alyson O'Connor. I am really looking forward to meeting her and her family. 
I'll also be busy helping our sponson the Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation to raise awareness for CMT, since this is CMT Awareness Month.
Summer is over, bring on the Fall!

***********************

Chris Wodke
Founder & Manager Team CMT
www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  She was the 2012 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division. In 2013 she qualified as a member of the Team USA Duathlon Team and was eligible to compete in 2014 at the Age Group World Duathlon Sprint Championship in Pontevedre Spain.  She chose instead to represent the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete.

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6


Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMT. We have 152 members in 30 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, Vietnam, Turkey, Finland and Iran. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org


CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Additional Link
Follow CMT affected Paratriathlete Timmy Dixon
http://cmtamputee.wordpress.com/

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing