For the past three years, one of my goals has been to complete a 5K run (3.1 miles) in less than 30 minutes. I have written about that over and over.
Therefore, it may come as a surprise to you that this post is all about running 13.1 miles, and I don’t have my heart set on a specific finish time.
I will be running the 2012 Allstate Life Insurance℠ Boston 13.1 Marathon® on Sunday, September 16, 2012, as part of the Autism Speaks team. When I told my husband that I wanted to do this, he asked, “why run 13.1 miles in Boston when you could do it here in Tallahassee?” It has to be Boston, it has to be September 16, 2012, and it has to be with Autism Speaks because someone I have never met asked me to.
Perhaps these statements …. running 13.1 miles in “whatever time I can do” when my main goal is 3.1 miles in 29:59 or less; traveling to Boston to run because someone I have never met and never verbally spoken to asked me to; running as part of the Autism Speaks team when my child does not have autism …. don’t make much sense.
Here are some of the reasons I said, “this has to happen” when I read Luau’s blog on February 14:
1) Beyond the fact that I had seen some made for tv movies about children with autism and done a little reading, my life had not been directly touched by autism until the day my almost-one-year-old failed most of the indicators for “typical development” on an assessment given by the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. No eye contact, no words, no pointing, nothing. Even though Wayne was not diagnosed with any condition on the autism spectrum, I have felt one teeny tiny scintilla of what I hear from my friends and acquaintances who have children with autism. That scintilla is wedged deep within my psyche and even though I have no right to say “I can relate,” …….. I can’t walk away.
2) I have worked for Florida’s State Child Health Insurance Program for 17 years. Our program does not cover autism. Even though I know it’s “just my job” to explain this to families whose child needs far more than the “24 therapy visits in a 60 day period when significant improvement is expected to result,” that are covered, it still breaks my heart to be on the other end of the phone line when they say, “But how will he/she get the intensive, year-round therapy he/she needs?”
3) Because several times a week, I read Diary of a Mom, and am given the gift of Jess’s wisdom, raw candor, and selflessness in sharing her journey (and Luau’s) journey through parenting a “neurotypical” child and a child on the autism spectrum. The only way I know how to pay her back is to try to do something to help her child and other children and adults with autism.
Therefore, I signed on to the Autism Speaks Team knowing that my end of the deal is to raise $500 for Autism Speaks. The good news is I have raised $130.
More good news is that if I accumulate the most or second-to-most comments of everyone participating in this promotion that is hosted by Amanda at Parenting by Dummies, Paula Foster from Moments in Frames will donate a dollar per comment up to $250. Just for your comments!! (This lasts through May 6.)
(ps – if you just want to donate, of course that’s fine too! Click here to be taken to my personal donation link.) [link no longer active – pk]
Wife of one, Mom of two, Friend of many. My pronouns are she/her/hers.
Anonymous says
Paula thank you for all that you do, Your advocacy for so many causes is enduring and inspiring. Have a great run and bless your ample heart
David Wiley, Tallahassee , FL
Blacksmithink@gmail.com
Laura Chan says
Go Paula! We will be cheering for you from Tally! 🙂
Jen@runfortheboys says
This. Just this. YOU are amazing and have a gift for the written word and a heart of gold. God Bless You, Paula!
Patricia says
Wish I was running with you – good luck, Paula.
Patricia says
Good luck, Paula
Robert says
Paula: Knowing your Mon TRX, Tues at FSU track, Wed bootcamp at Doak and on and on and on, you are ready and a winner already. Enjoy!
Lynne says
I love your heart and how you reveal it each week through your blog. Good luck to you, Paula. I'm so proud of you.
Littlepol says
Paula this is a great cause you are running for.
jsbh says
Paula you are so giving! I love all that you do for the community and support of others! Thank you
Anonymous says
Good for you!!! I wish you the best of luck in your endeavor 🙂
amy_z. says
Run, Paula, Run! Thanks for being an inspiration and supporting families who are living with autism.
Annette says
Go, Paula, Go! Thank you for all you do for such a great cause!
Sara says
I'm super excited to be witness to your training and achievement of your first half marathon! And for a great cause! Good luck, see you out on the road 🙂
bobbi says
Love this! Thank you!
Stimey says
Very cool! I love me some Jess and Luau too! I can't wait to hear how your run goes!
mom outside the box says
Awesome! I'll be walking with Jess…hope to meet you!
Luau says
Oh Paula, I am so touched by this and am honored that you would make this trip in part based on a request from a guy you've never met. I look forward to breaking bread with you on the 15th and sharing the course with you on the 16th.
CB says
this is all kinds of awesome! you go girl!
Jess and Luau's inspiration is catchy, huh?? Good luck!
mom-nos says
Paula, you are a hero. Thanks for running for our kids!
Anonymous says
Thank you for joining the team. I believe Matt has single handedly recruited all of the 13.1 team members so far. I look forward to meeting you and celebrating your 13.1 victory on race weekend. – Lara
Anne Payne says
Paula, you are an inspiration!!
Jen says
Good on you! Thank you for taking on the challenge. 13.1 is a great goal.
Robin says
What a wonderful thing to do!
Enjoy the run and the day!
Cheryl says
Allies really ARE everywhere!
The Rev. Lindsay Lunnum says
This comment has been removed by the author.
Lindsay says
Thank you. Enjoy the run and know that we are very grateful.
Kim says
Thanks from a Mom of a 7 year old daughter with Autism.
Anonymous says
Have a great run, Paula! An excellent cause and sure to be a rewarding event on many levels.
April says
From a mom of a FL kid with autism, who is in the Healthy Kids program, thank you so much for doing this! You are awesome, Paula!
Kerri says
Imagine if more people took action like you are doing! Thanks so much, from a Mom of an 8 year old daughter with autism and a 5 year old “neurotypical” son in TX!
Graceful Lady says
Beautiful post. Beautiful you and looking forward to meeting you in September!
pixiebytes says
This is a wonderful thing you're doing! I would love to be in good enough shape to run for the cause someday! Till then on behalf of my 7 year old daughter I thank you! 🙂
Suzanne Locke says
LOVE!
We are kindred spirits. I too am running the 13.1 in September in Boston because someone I never met asked me to and despite the fact that I live in Tennessee.
Boston was and always will be my home and I can think of no better way to celebrate kids like Brooke and my Shea (a 7-year old on the spectrum) than to run 13.1 miles with people I've never met, but nonetheless adore.
Suzanne
Anonymous says
I admire you for doing this Paula. You have such a caring spirit.
Dee Kring
Anonymous says
Thank you! – from a mom of a son with aspergers
Alysia says
On behalf of my two boys I thank you. I caught the luau/Jess fever too 🙂
MarfMom says
awesome! you do so much for people, and i love your blog! i hope you are one of the two winners! 🙂
Danielle says
Thank you, from a mom of an ASD son… and good luck!
Susie Kline says
I am always impressed with runners. And even more so because you are running for a cause. Good luck! Happy running!
bailzebub says
Go! Go! Go!
Thanks for doing this.
Beret says
Best of luck!
Lauren says
Have a great time!!
Ami says
Go Paula! You are an inspiration! We'll be rooting you on from Tally!
Emily says
You are truly inspirational. I wish you the best of luck in running this race and in all of your efforts to support this cause!!!
Kelly @ Running Kellometers says
Good Luck!
Ginger Foxxx says
You're going to do AWESOME!!
Unknown says
There a bunch of us New England Daily Milers who will be there participating as well. many of us have autistic children of our own. We look forward to seeing ya' there. Great post!
kelsey says
good luck rock it!
abemiddleton says
Way to go Paula, way to go! (clap clap)
Anonymous says
Thank you. You are a shining example of what raising autism awareness is all about.
Joe Run for Dom says
Paula – just a tremendous thing to do – I will be looking forward to following your journey both here and on Daily Mile training for your half marathon in September.
Anything you need, please ask (I'll be happy to support your cause with a gift as well).
Best to you Paula! You are what it is all about.
Vern says
Your work for Autism is commendable! Keep up the good work and have a great half!
bill.hurley says
Best of luck Paula. You will meet some great DMers that day. Great job for a great cause.
Anonymous says
Best of luck with everything!
Anonymous says
goodluck!
Erin says
You are an inspiration for doing what you can where you can!
Anonymous says
Thank you! I too love Jess's blog and dabble in running…have wanted to do a half or (gasp) full for the Autism Speaks Team. Good luck to you!
Robyn says
Kim from healthystrides sent me. Good luck to you.
Greg Strosaker says
Good luck Paula, will enjoy watching you prepare for this. I know about Luau's struggles with autism and pay close attention, as I have an autistic son myself.
K says
You are a hero in the lives of children!
PREZ says
What a wonderful cause, Paula!
I started running in Jan 2012 and i can relate to your pace goal. I just signed up for a half mary as well. I admire your advocacy and warm heart. God bless!
BabyWeightMyFatAss says
THank you for doing this for our children!! I read Luau's and Jess's blogs as well. Go Paula Go!
Angela F says
I too am going to participate in this 13.1 mile marathon for Autism Speaks because of Luau's invitation (mostly because he said I could walk if I need to!) I am not a runner but I look forward to this event – I have 2 sons with autism and will think of them with every stride. I hope to meet you there!
David R. says
Run with Heart!
Nilsa @ SoMi Speaks says
Good luck, Paula!
Kimberly says
Good luck!
Fuzzbee says
Go Paula! See you at the race – I'm on the Autism Speaks team as well, raising money in honor of my little boy!
Teamarcia says
WTG Paula! You are such an inspiration.
Anonymous says
Very inspirational! Wishing you all the best!
Tina Fisher says
What an awesome goal! You will love the 13.1 challenge! 🙂
God Bless!
Schotz says
You are relentless! I am sure you are going to rock this race.
Schotz says
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous says
It's nice to know that there are people out there putting their hearts on the line for our kiddos. As a teacher of special education, it's refreshing to hear we've got support; we'll take it from wherever we can!
shannon says
Paula, this is such an awesome blog – and decision! You know the Badass Army will be cheering you on from afar!
jess says
i am simply overwhelmed with gratitude, can't wait to meet you!
SABRINA says
As a mom of a little boy,4 yrs old,with Autism,i thank you with a heavy,happy heart! You cant begin to understand how it makes me feel to see someone who doesnt have a family member with Autism care and respond so deeply.God bless you in your race,every step you take is a step forward for families like mine.
Anonymous says
Go Paula!
Thank you
Emily
polina says
<3 good luck
termite says
sending nothing but LOVE and support your way!
FINISH STRONG!
wOOt!
~termite.
Carol says
Good luck Paula! We will be cheering for you from Arizona!
Andrea Carlile says
Fantastic goal for a great cause 🙂
Amber says
Thank you. Not only for the four that I have on the spectrum, but for all children on the spectrum.
gail says
As captain of Team Isabella, I thank you!
A & W + E = Coleman says
Thank youfor thinking about all of our kids! I wish you luck on your run!
Katie says
A very big thank you Paula – for my little girl on the spectrum and for all of our kids. Good luck!
Anonymous says
Awesome….such a great story and good luck!
Anonymous says
Thank you from another parent with a child with autism !
wolfedenmom says
Thank you for running for our Sam!!!
Anonymous says
I'll be cheering for you from Atlanta. From a parent of a 6YO girl with Aspergers.
Lisa says
On behalf of my son, thank you! Good luck with your race!
Unknown says
We appreciate everything you do….
G's momma says
Thank you from this mom of a 7 year old son with Aspergers. Best of luck!!
Luna says
This is spectacular! Jess said reading this would be worth it, she was right. The fact that your life has not been directly affected by autism just makes this more bad ass. Got goosebumps reading your words. It's so encouraging to hear about people like you, those willing to take action and actually do something. The idea that you have taken up a cause when you have no personal stake in it is humbling, inspiring and heroic. Seriously. Big thanks from my entire family!!!
Good luck on the run!!!
Stacy says
We need more people like you who may not live it every day, but “get it” nonetheless. Thank you.
Kathy says
You are awesome to do this!!
MollyW says
Thank you so much – you truly are running for every ASD kid out there. My 3 year old daughter is one of them. Much love and gratitude from our family.
Patty O. says
I can't tell you how much it means to have a parent who hasn't been directly impacted by autism make such an effort to help kids like my own. I don't think I can really explain how significant this is to me. Your willingness to stand up for a cause like this is so heartwarming! Thank you for doing this!
surprised by joy says
The world needs more people like you!! Thank you!
Anonymous says
Go Paula. You rock!!
Lauren @ www.laurenruns.com says
Paula – you're incredibly inspiring in crusading and dedicating your training & your race to a cause that has touched you – maybe not deep and close (like a dagger), but at least scratches periodically. Best of luck in your training to get to Boston in September!
Unknown says
Good luck! I love that you responded to Luau's challenge. I've responded to Jess's request, and commented here. 🙂 They both rock. Hope you rock your run!!
Anonymous says
thank you, and rock the run!! -Marylou
Peter Smith says
Inspiring. Good work Paula
Mom says
Thank you so much Paula. You are one special lady!
Jess' Mom
Anonymous says
THANK YOU and best of luck!!!!!
Niksmom says
Paula, I don't know you but came via Jess. I DO know Jess and her beautiful family. Now? I LOVE YOU for what you are doing. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for doing this for all of our children.
Gus Z says
Thank you Paula and Paula!!!
Kerry says
For my girl and all the beautiful kids like her, thank you.
ngspitznagle says
Thank you for what you are doing! I have two personal friends with autistic sons and I know what they go through on a daily basis. My own nephew, while on the spectrum, was never “labeled”as he fit too many categories. Luckily his case is mild comparatively speaking. You can be sure to also fnd a donation from me soon. You are awesome!
Gary says
You'll do great and you will get it done, Paula! Thank you for doing this!
Grandpa DD says
Thanks for all of your support!
Grandpa DD
JenK says
Thank you Paula! I read Jess' blog as an autism mom, and Luau's blog as a runner (very amateur). You are inspiring on both fronts. Good luck and have tons of fun!
Anonymous says
What an awesome and big heart you have! I bet that training for a half marathon will also help you with that 29:59 5K goal. Best of luck.
Kim says
Wow. Just Wow! Thank you so much! You are amazing 🙂
Anonymous says
Thanks & God Bless!
Rebecca says
Thanks, Paula for your kindness and generosity to the kids and families on the spectrum. Am trying to work my schedule so I can be at the run in September as well. Hopefully I will see you there.
Black Knight says
Go Paula, you are amazing!
Hi from Italy
Margaret says
Best of luck Paula!! You'll do great!!
Alicia Jay says
Hey Paula!
You are just so awesome! You were the one who introduced me to Jess' blog and now I'm glued to it. I just participated in our local Autism Walk & Expo last weekend but it's nothing compared to what you are doing. Good luck!
Amy says
Thank you Paula! Our kids thank you!
Mike-El says
Get out there and rip it up, cupcake.
Kelsey S. says
Very inspirational. Good luck!
mikepey says
Go Paula!!!!!
Girl In Motion says
You rock, Paula, may it be a wonderful race!
Anonymous says
Hey Paula this sounds awesome! The only real contact I've had with autism is through a movie I made about a year ago. One of the main characters was autistic so I had to do a lot of research. Since then, I've been more aware of causes like this, and I wish you all the best!
-Arlene
Garry Trammell says
Excellent! Watch your training regimen (don't overtrain and injure yourself)and you'll do fine. Love the perseverance! Go Paula!
Don Guitar says
If they accepted PayPal I'd have just made a donation. You're a good'un ma'am.
Jacqui Graham says
Paula, I am so looking forward to running this 1/2 marathon with you! You have inspired me to run in honor of some very special young folks with autism whose have come into my life. I feel blessed that our paths have crossed — I know I am the better for it!
Sharon {Grumpy, Sleepy and Bashful} says
A fabulous cause!! Good luck!
Suz and Allan says
What a great cause! Good luck Paula!
Sherry Pagoto says
What a great cause! Go for it Paula! Don't forget to plank for good luck before the race! #plankaday
Anonymous says
Good Luck accomplishing your goal! Just keep pushing one step & one day at a time! 😉 Teri C
Patty says
Wishing you the very best of luck in the marathon and applauding your efforts on behalf of such a worthwhile cause.
Michael Selmer says
Great job, Paula … on the blogpost and the fundraising. I hope you reach your comment goal. In the original draft of “Harvest of the Heart,” Elsa, the main character, was mildly autistic. That element was dropped at the suggestion of my editor, but after all the research I did, I still feel an affinity for autistic children and autism research.
Rick says
I hope you have a great Half Marathon!! I did my first last year at age 64 with only about a year and a half of running experience. Your goal should be to train without injury, and to finish the half! Enjoy the run! A reasonable time goal (secondary to finishing) might be 2:30. If you can do a 5k in 30, 2:30 for the half is doable.
Jester Queen says
I have to say. As the mom to two kids on the spectrum, I am extremely ambivalent about autism speaks. They do a LOT of good, but tend to focus on the negative almost exclusively, which is frustrating for those of us hoping to present a more balanced picture. Note, however, that I'm commenting. Because in the end, they do a LOT of good.
Xarah says
It doesn't matter in what time you run it. It doesn't even matter if you finish the run or not. All it matters that you are going to start. I applaud you!
Anonymous says
best of luck from Tally…cheers
Kim says
Sending you positive running energy, you can do it!
Anonymous says
Admire you for doing this – so much!
Anonymous says
This is awesome and inspiring!!!
Poonther says
Once again you demonstrate why I call you Wonder Woman. Best of luck with this difficult but important task.
Traci S says
Good luck Paula! Thank you from yet another parent of a child on the spectrum.
Anonymous says
Good luck! You'll do great!
Teresa says
Have a great run! Thanks for doing this from another mom of a child with Asperger's.
Anonymous says
Good luck in your run and thank you for supporting such an important cause!
Tracy says
Good luck!!! What you're doing is really wonderful!
Chris and Jill says
Thanks for doing this in honor all everyone affected by Autism. Best of luck with your run!
Carla says
Go Paula! Looking forward to seeing you at lots of the local races while training! Have a great run
Maura says
Good luck in Boston
alicia says
Good luck on your run! Thank you so much for doing this and for all of the causes you pour your heart into!
SaJo121 says
Best of luck Paula- I found your post via twitter and 1) having grown up in Tally and 2) having worked with children with autism please know I'll be cheering for you and the awareness you're creating.
Wrenn says
Have a great run! And I think it is great what you are doing for such a worthy cause. Keep up the good work!
Amy Stevens says
Paula, you go girl!!!! I've had the same 30 minute goal (I've only kept that to myself until this moment) so if you have a breakthrough, let me know. Good luck and keep on being an inspiration to us all.
Anonymous says
Hang in there! Hopefully it will work out for you! Keep moving forward!!
Teri C
Anonymous says
I thank you for doing this. We have a nephew who has autism and he has never ceased to amaze us in his 19 years. Go Paula!
Kristi, Live and Love...Out Loud says
What an awesome cause! I'm so glad that you're using your voice for good. Good luck on your run!
Anonymous says
You rock. Thank you for doing this. You are an amazing woman!
Jannyk9 says
finally found. mention on facebook to scroll to bottom to comment on blog. thanks for doing this. Jan
Donna Meredith says
Nothing could tear at you like feeling powerless to heal a hurt to your child. Thank you for your devotion this and so many other good causes.
RunnergirlNV says
This brought tears to my eyes…Paula I think you are an amazing woman.I get it has to be Boston and it has to be this race. I was the smae way for my first half. I will keep you in my prayers and I know you can do this…”DON” FALL AND FINISH”
Deena says
Paula!
You are an inspiration to us all! Good Luck!
Barbara Forbes-Lyons says
Great work, Paula. Appreciate all you're doing for the organization.
Anonymous says
Thank you for doing this – there are so many affected by ASD, and the numbers are growing. We need to stop the epidemic.
Anonymous says
You are such an inspiration and soooo awesome!! #plankwars
Khorton says
Paula thank you so much for what your doing … what a wonderful, touching thing to do.. we would be so better off if there were more people in this world like you~!!!
Jane McPherson says
Good luck, Paula! Great effort for a great cause.
Barbara says
Awesome, Paula! You are such an inspiration. Best of luck!
Anonymous says
I think it is wonderful of you to do this, I am pushing “memory miles events” for Military families and we are attempting a fund raiser here for a two year old's medical bills (kidney cancer). Other friends are raising funds for charities also. I hope you meet your goal and more. Prayers are being sent – God bless!
Kathi says
good luck! may your feet be healthy and your legs run strong!
Kristine says
Good luck, Paula … I admire your strength and discipline, and your advocacy is inspiring. Wishing you the best!
Anonymous says
Heard about your aspirations from Amy Z and wanted to say — you rock!
Laura Ferenczy Eck says
Good luck Paula!! I'm so excited for you, thank you for doing this!
WashingTina says
You are an inspiration! I can't wait to hear how this all goes down. Bravo!!!!
nolenbucs says
Thanks so much for your commitment to autism Paula! It has always been something near and dear to my heart as I know several children on the spectrum and there are never enough affordable services for them as you say!
Laura says
What a generous and kind thing to do! Wishing you a safe run- thanks for supporting those of us who deal with autism daily.
Simply Southern says
what a great idea. Best wishes in your run
Anonymous says
What a GREAT thing to do…good luck to you!
~~Friend of Amy's… 🙂
Ali J says
This is inspiring! As an aspiring teacher of students with disabilities, it is always amazing to see individuals showing great support & bringing disabilities to light. Thank you for running & good luck!
DrPepperDiva says
I wish you the best of luck.
noelle says
My teaching partner has twins with autism. She routinely inspires me with how she celebrates the small things and smiles through the challenges. Thank you for helping families like hers!
Lavender Luz says
Your efforts are helping so many people. You go, girl!
Volodymyr says
Wonderful and amazing! Good luck for you! I think you should be oriented on about 2:30-2:35.
Gail says
Beautiful woman with a beautiful heart 🙂 I have two little ones with an autism diagnosis. People like you make strides for their future every day. Thank you!
Anonymous says
I know a family with an autistic child. My experience with autism is limited to a few brief home visits, stories from the child's older brother, and a quick run to the hospital to assist the mom when the dad was overseas.
Good luck and best wishes for bringing attention and assistance to a condition that the lives of so many. — a childhood friend
gratefulsurvivor says
Go, Paula, Go!
Anonymous says
Paula, you are one of the most special ladies I've ever met. I am so proud of you and excited for you. You are going to meet and exceed all of your goals! You're truly a gift, to me, to GWTC and now to the Autism community for grabbing a hold and not letting go, bringing funds and awareness to Autism research. Love you!
Robin
simplerobin@comcast.net
Anonymous says
You will do great, Paula! And if you need a partner for a long run I am happy to join you as long as it isn't at 10 p.m. I have a friend with not one but TWO autistic children.
Beth Alexander
Gary C says
If everyone would do half as much as you do to help others, the world would be a much better place.It is good hearted people like you that make me proud to be a part of Gulfwinds Track Club.I know you will be ready for 13.1 in Boston.I wish I could do more to help.Have fun at the race!
Anonymous says
You can do it Paula, I did my first 1/2 in Feb. & I'm no runner! Your Sunday yoga buddy, Angela!
Unknown says
Good Luck!! You are truly an inspiration!
Maureen says
Paula, I'm in awe of your energy and enthusiasm! What a great cause. Good luck and have fun!!
AShoestringLife says
As a mother of a child on the spectrum I want to say thank-you and god luck!
Patricia says
You are such an I spiration to so many. Thank you for showing anyone who is determined can make a difference. Have a great race!
Anonymous says
Go Paula,go! Good luck and wish you the best!
Miao
Anonymous says
Go, girl go! Blessings!
Roberta says
Good luck, Paula!
SlowbutSteadyWinsTheRace says
Such a great cause. I used to work at a residential treatment facility for children with mental health issues, and dealt with children with disorders on the autism spectrum on a daily basis. God bless those children, their families, and others who love and work with them! Go Paula!
–Dustin
simonesel says
Your willingness – scratch that, your enthusiasm – to support people is really astounding, Paula. You champion anyone who needs help, whether it be college students making movies for fun or parents trying to raise happy and healthy kids. You're the best. Thank you so much and good luck on your run!
-Simone Lapidus
Anonymous says
Go Paula!!
Mandy M. says
Don't be afraid to be amazing! Paula's not.
Natasha S. says
This is pretty awesome. The world needs more people like you. Good luck and have fun in Boston!!!
Kathy says
Good luck to you as you reach your goals, Paula! 🙂
Peter Carlock says
More people need to learn what Autism is all about. This is a great cause. I'm with ya in spirit. I'll leave the running to you.:)
Missy says
Thanks for getting the word out and putting actions to your words. God bless you!
Laura Rainey says
I'm so happy for you and the good work you are doing. Good luck!
wally says
GOOD LUCK.GREAT CAUSE.
Jennifer Noel says
Go Paula go!!! That's so awesome!!!
Kristine says
Paula, this is an amazing charity that you are running on behalf! I am really proud of you. Great work!
Anonymous says
Thanks, Paula!
Judy says
There isn't anything I can say that hasn't already been said, Paula. Just know that while you are running 13.1, I'll be with you in spirit, pushing & encouraging you all the way to the finish line. You are an amazing lady!
Fondly,
judy
Anonymous says
One foot in front of the other. Good luck! LB 🙂
Joann Milford says
So proud of you and your advocacy for children with Autism. Boston is lovely in September. We will cheer you on from Tallahassee! Happy Training!
Christi says
Wow, I had no idea! Keep up the good work.
Anonymous says
Good luck Paula. Have fun and stay healthy.
TeamHarrison says
Paula, you are an amazing inspiration. I have NO idea how you manage to do everything you do!
Simply amazing! Good luck!
AmyO says
Great effort for a great cause! Best of luck to you Paula – you can do it!
Anonymous says
Nancy Kaiser Winter Park, FL
What a wonderful thing to do. Go Paula! You will be the winner of this race, regardless of your time!
Anonymous says
Joe Winter Park, FL
Go Paula!
Life On A Shoestring ... In Beverly Hills? says
Paula you are inspiring and a wonderful example to do this run and other projects you work on for the betterment of others — always a great way to lead! Run on and on and on – enjoy! ~ XO Christine
Anonymous says
Good luck and God Bless.
Anonymous says
even if you move slow, you're lapping everyone on the sidelines
Anonymous says
Thanks for what you are doing to help others!
Tallahassee TrailBlazers Gulf Winds says
TRAILBLAZERS LOVE PAULA!! We are so proud of you! Go represent Tallahassee proudly! you're an incredible woman for stepping up to this challenge!
ilovemyeeyore says
You are awesome!
Tara Reynolds says
Go Paula! And after running, we shall go dancing all night!! 😉 You have a great heart (and legs), thank you for raising awareness and money for this!
Alex says
Run Paula Run!
Alex says
You go girl. Run Paula Run!
Anonymous says
Run Paula Run
Anonymous says
Run Paula Run! good luck
McKinney Mommas says
Woo Hooooo. You go girl!
Jannyk9 says
good luck, how's it going
Lawrence Weru says
You've got my vote Paula. Good luck!
Kathleen Carr says
What a wonderful goal and cause! Go Paula Go!
Susan Fields says
Good luck Paula – you'll do great!!!
Lois says
What a wonderful cause. You go girl!
Debby says
I love ur blog. U have so,much insight. My mom worked with autism children in middle school for years in jax. She loved them and they loved her. Then,my niece got to help autistic children for abt a year and was hired to help after school with one child. But then they decided only those with degrees could work there. Could not believe it! She and the children loved each other so much.
Tabitha says
Great job Paula! I hope you enjoy the training for this as much as the fund raising! Have a great time
Samantha Kelley says
Good Luck!!
Meredith says
This is incredible!! What an awesome idea for fund-raising! This is cool.
I will pass this post along to my friends!!
Lindsey V says
This is awesome! You go, girl!
Anonymous says
It is a great cause what you are supporting…you should be so proud of yourself!!! Not too many people have the same passion that you do…I wish you the best of luck!!!
You are my inspiration in so many ways!!!!
Cruz
Nikki says
Wow. You are inspirational. Best of luck to you!
Kimberly Moore says
YOU rock – what a wonderful thing and I am going to share this! GOOD LUCK!
Utpal Vaishnav says
Great cause. Keep rocking!
Unknown says
you are amazing!! I am happy to call you my friend. Your dedication is amazing….Cant wait to hear about your 13.1 mile journey!!
Anonymous says
go Paula go!!! so proud of you!!!!! 13.1 here you come!!!
Anonymous says
Continue inspiring Paula and running through life's marathons.
All the best,
Mark Castaldo/Destiny Pictures
Jannyk9 says
had to check, made comment on the 4th. best of luck. will post again after church.
Anonymous says
Best of luck
Nancy6841 says
Paula this is awesome!! You go girl!!!
Anonymous says
What a great cause!! Wishing you the best of luck! Kristin Rising
Anonymous says
Good Luck and God Bless you!
http://www.facebook.com/AnnsHopeChest
Jannyk9 says
Paula, thank you for taking up this cause. need everyone who ever posted to finish in a BIG way.
liesl says
Paula – I have been wanting to comment on this post for some time. You are such an inspiration in what you do and in the way you dedicate yourself in the service of others. So proud of you! And feeling very blessed that our lives crossed at literary mama!
IVF mom says
Amazing! Someone told me about the Avon Breast Cancer 3-Day: I can walk 60 miles; I can sleep in a tent; I can even raise $2,500… it's doing all three at the same time that's overwhelming.
You have your own trifecta of amazing!
Jacqui says
Every now and then I check in for a booster shot of inspiration! Thanks, Paula! 🙂
Tammy says
What a great goal 🙂 Good luck Paula!!! HUGS!!!
Michael Selmer says
An inspiring task, Paula. It is the big final day for comments and I hope you will be successful in reaching your goal.
indieb says
To my friend, and fellow runner…. run long and taper my friend. Keep running, inspiring, and reminding all of us runners that we can make each mile count for reasons far beyond our own health. Love to you girl!
Shonali Burke says
Woo hoo – I made it! I am SO proud of you for doing this, Paula – you're a winner either way, though, you know that, right?
Joanna says
Wonderful of you to do this. Good luck!
Kimberly says
Good luck, Paula! I'm supporting you from Tucson, AZ.
Peggy Kassees says
Thanks for the opportunity to help with this, Paula. I love your posts.
Joellen says
Great article, Paula!
Greg says
Good luck Paula. We have no doubt you can do this!
Unknown says
Good luck, Paula!!! -Carissa
Vicky says
Paula, this is great! My brother has 2 autistic stepsons and our whole family has been learning more about autism. Thank you!
Bethany says
GO PAULA!!!
Lisa Cox says
Paula, I think you have 10 Whole Hearts! You do so much. Blessings to you as you run for this worthy cause!
Michelle McCaskey says
Good luck!
Julie Newberry says
You inspire many and are such a great friend.
Anonymous says
go Paula! best of luck – you are doing a wonderful thing!
Anonymous says
Good Luck!
Anonymous says
Following from Mike Holcomb in Athens – good luck and thanks for all you do!!! – di hall
Mary Foley says
Thank you, Paula for such kind words on the Autism Speaks website regarding my blog. And, an even BIGGER thank you for adding Kyan to your list…words cannot begin to describe what that means to me! Thank you!!!
Paula Kiger says
You’re so welcome, Mary!