So the cheese moved, now what?

So inspirational! Sad to hear about the condition, but it sounds like you will come through just fine!

I'm so sorry to hear you've had to give up your favorite activity. I never was a runner, but I hope you will try swimming. Laps are wonderfully relaxing and invigorating at the same time, and aqua aerobics can be just as tough an exercise as you want it to be. Best of all, there is NO stress on your bones and joints. Perfect for someone with degenerative problems.

Have a wonderful holiday, and here's hoping for a great, active new year.

You have a geat attitude. I'm sure something just as good or even better for you will come along. Happy holidays.

Marian, I am sorry for your loss - yes, it's a loss. It sounds like you've got some good ideas on waht to fill that time with. You might like to reconsider the doctor's suggestion of swimming in addition to the activities you find most appealing. Floating in the water takes the weight off the discs. Just a thought. Glad you didn't need surgery!

I know you love running Marian! I also know you are a smart woman and will listen to what your  body is telling you!  Get that second opinion then find some other activity to keep you fit with less stress and impact on those joints! Chin up, keep the great attitude, my friend.

Marian, are you allowed to take hour walks instead? That would be at the top of my question list.

Good attitude and great outlook. You'll find productive (and active) use for those 7 hours, and while I know you'll miss running, have faith that you'll find new outlets that will cause less pain and stress on your body. Where there's a will, there's a way, and I have the feeling there's no shortage of will in your spirit!

Attitude is what life is all about. Having the ability to accept new limitations and identify new goals.  Maybe it wll not be 100 miles a week but there are still lots of possibilities.  Good luck!

Marian, accepting the fact that as we grow older, doors close and new ones open. .what a great opportunity to take charge and choose a new life and  still be in shape.. . I'm sure you wil find that door and continue wih your passion 

Marian, I had to give running up over a decade ago, but it revived cycling in my life and I couldn't be happier.  No pain and thousands of miles a year.  You can do it outside or in a Spinning class at the local gym.  Give it a try!!

Marion, as the others have said, I know this was terrible news for you to get but I'm glad you're going to switch over to something that is more user friendly!  Running has to be the single worst thing we ca do to our bodies.  I wrecked my ankles and my shins many years ago running and when high impact aerobics was all the rage!

Swimming is much kinder to the package we live in and you'll be amazed at the results in both mind and body!  Good luck with whatever you choose.

Marian - take the news as a sign for change. It is not a defeat. Look at all the achivement you have accomplished. I couldn't even drag myself to run for a mile. To me you have made a great achivement. Take it easy.

Marian, its hard to give up what you truly love doing. Riding a bicycle sounds like a good alternative to running.

good for you! i am positive that those precious 7 hours will come to great avail in the future. and the blessings it will provide to you and others, amazing!!

Lisa, Rye Brook, NY

Make that two bicycles and grab your husband on your way out the door. I'll bet you'll discover places you've never been to.

Hi Marian, you have a great attitude and will overcome this obstacle too. Have a great holiday!!        

Marian, sorry about your news, but bike riding has replaced running for me. I have two bikes, one for the road and always wear a helmet and the other for the beach. Riding here on the beach at low tide is one of my favorite ways to decompress and enjoy the beach. Always rise the bike off of sand and salt. I would suggest you buy a really good road bike with medium wide tires and a cheaper beach bike, since they rust from the constant sand and washing. You will be amazed at the distances you can go on a bike verses the distance you normally run. You might see some new sights.

Running has never had any appeal for me, but I know friends who, like you, find it therapeutic in many different ways.  As others have suggested, perhaps some of the more imaginative exercise routines might work out for you?  Personally I would lean more towards yoga and tai chi for relaxation.

Sorry about the disappointing news.  It has to be hard hearing you can't when you have a passion for something.  You're positive outlook and redirection for other alternatives is an inspiration to all.  You'll find a way to channel it, I hope you're not in too much pain.  Best wishes for the rest of the Holiday Season,