Run, Bike, Swim for Autism

Thanks to my 1st Sargent, A big step was made in getting the word out. If you go here you can view the news article that was printed in the Airlifter newspaper. The Airlifter is McChord Air Force Base's only newspaper solely covering airmen and their families.

I would like to thank Sgt. Avery for her efforts in helping get the word out. Also a huge thanks to Tyler Hempstreet from the Airlifter. He's the gentlemen that came to the base and wrote the story. You two have been a huge help and we now will be able to reach many more people and hopefully raise more money.

5 Mile Lake Triathlon

On June 9th I competed in the first triathlon I've done in over 20 years. This was a sprint tri (.25 mile swim, 15 mile bike and 3 mile run). My goal was 2 hours 15 minutes. I completed the event in just over 1 hour 34 minutes. I did learn a few lessons:

1. Red wine and Carrot cake is NOT the preferred meal to eat the night before the event.

2. It rains in the Pacific North West. The pre-planning needs to account for rain.

3. The swim is difficult. If you get out of breath in the water, there's no where to rest. Start Slow!

Thanks to my beloved wife, granddaughter and good friend Alex for being there to support me. These events are much more fun and exciting when you can share them with family and friends. Alex and Gina took a lot of photo's so I'll get some posted soon.

Do I Need to Vaccinate My Child

Today, according to the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule, a child receives 36 shots containing a total of 126 vaccines from birth through six years of age. This is quadruple the number of vaccines a child received in the 1980’s. In 1983 a child received only 10 shots containing 30 vaccines. Could this quadrupling of the vaccination schedule be responsible for the drastic increase in childhood disorders we are seeing today?

Today, one in five children suffers from asthma, one in six children is diagnosed with a learning disability, one in 150 children is diagnosed with autism, one in 250 children has some form of arthritis, and one in every 400 children has diabetes.


Are we trading chickenpox, measles, mumps, rubella, and other harmless childhood illnesses for a lifetime of chronic disease?

Did you know, If you have religious reasons or a family medical history that would give you cause for concern, your child may be eligible to NOT be vaccinated. Click HERE for a list of Vaccine Exempt Forms by State.

Keep in mind, you have legal battles ahead of you is you decide not to vaccinate. Please research thoroughly before making your decision.

I joined South Sound Triathlete club. This has put me in touch with a number of people who have successfully completed multiple triathlons of varying distances. They also have proven workout schedules to help me meet my goals.

My first day out with the club was most humbling. I really felt my cycling skills were above average for an old guy. But, my 50+ miles with the club was torture. These guys and gals, both younger and older, drove me into the ground. I had one of my best days on the bike and still was inadequate compared to the rest of the team. I'm excited because there's nothing I can do but improve.

I'll keep you updated on the progress.

Digestive Issues and Autism

Researchers are studying a gene that may cause both autism and gastrointestinal disorders, a study in Monday's Pediatrics Report. More than 30% of people with autism also have some kind of stomach or intestinal problem, compared with fewer than 10% of people who aren't autistic, says study author Daniel Campbell, research assistant professor at Vanderbilt University. Campbell is focusing on a gene called MET, which is involved in brain development before birth and in connections between brain cells after birth, as well as in the process through which the gastrointestinal system repairs itself. In his study, a variation in this gene was associated with both autism and gastrointestinal problems in 118 of 214 families.

Hopefully this research will begin to unravel the mystery of Autism.

My Ironman Competition has Gotten Tougher

Lance Armstrong has a new challenge, and it involves competing in Hawaii. The seven-time Tour de France winner wants to compete in the Hawaii Ironman in Kona, in either 2011 or 2012. Armstrong says the year depends on if this year or next year will be his final Tour de France. The 38-year-old says he wants to compete for fun, but thinks it's possible to finish in the top ten. He ran marathons, was a swimmer as a child, and a national-level triathlete in his late teens.

Product Review

This is a new section I'll try to keep up so you those of you who are ensured and motivated to take health and fitness more seriously can get my insite on products that I use.

First off, lets discuss hydration. (and no, I'm not this smart. I got my info from Hammer Nutrition - My preferred event supplement)

When we exercise, we burn molecular fuel, mostly glycogen, but also some protein, fat, and blood glucose from ingested nutrients. The breakdown of these energy providers releases heat that builds up and raises our core temperature. The body must rid itself of this heat and maintain a core temperature within a few degrees of the well-known 98.6 F (37 C). An active person needs a reliable cooling mechanism. Actually, you have several. You lose some heat through your skin. Blood carries heat to the capillaries near the skin's surface, removing heat from the body core. You breathe harder to get more oxygen, expelling heat when you exhale. But by far the most important part of the cooling system, accounting on average for about 75% of all cooling, is your ability to produce and excrete sweat. Your skin is like a radiator and the water you intake is like antifreeze. You run low on antifreeze, you overheat. So, you need to hydrate during exercise. All that to get to the product review....

I've used 2 hydration systems. The Amphipod Runlite Trail Endurance and the Nathan Speed 4R. Both are belt systems (you wear them around your waist during training/events) and both carry about 40 oz of liquid. The Amphipod uses bottles that clip into the belt where as Nathan uses silicon pouches to hold the bottles in place. To get to the point, I prefer the Nathan by far. The main issue for me is, the bottles on the Amphipod do not easily clip into place and you have to change your stride and slow down to get them in and out. Also, the belt on the Amphipod has to be adjusted and clipped into on. If you don't have it right from the beginning, it slides around and is pretty uncomfortable. The bottles on the Nathan are easy to get to and easy to put back. The waist band is a limited stretch elasticized material that works awesome. Both are equipped with attached pockets to store the ever important iPod and fuel gels.

The Great Graduate

I'm excited to report Isaiah participated in a graduation a few weeks ago. When asked if he'd like to say something Isaiah's reply "Time for Oreo Cookies". If he only knew, it's always time for Oreo Cookies!

A Lot Going On...
I've been in contact with the Autism Society of America (ASA). They're affiliated with American Research Institute. Long story short (a quote form Alex), I've added a link to donate to ASA of Washington. This is significant for 2 reasons, any money donated to the Washington chapter of ASA stays in Washington and they except PayPal (just for you Chris).

On the Fitness Front

On Sunday, May 2nd, I participated in and completed my first half marathon. My goal was a 10:45 mile pace. My actual was a 10:23 pace. I believe I could have done better but for this being my first time (ever) running that far, I'm pretty happy with the outcome.
For those who are interested, click here to view my race profile (thanks Garmin).

10 Things

I got the below list from an Autism workshop our church conducted. When I read the list, it made me very sad. If you know Isaiah, or any child with autism, it will make you sad too.

10 things every child with autism wish you knew:

1. I am a child with autism. I am not "autistic." My autism is one aspect of my total character. It does not define me as a person


2. My sensory perceptions are disordered. This means the ordinary sights, sounds, smells, tastes and touches of everyday life that you may not even notice can be downright painful for me.


3. Please remember to distinguish between won’t (I choose not to) and can’t (I’m not able to).
   When you call to me from across the room, this is what I hear: "*&^%$@, Billy. $%^*&^%$&*" Instead, come speak directly to me in plain words: "Please put your book in your desk, Billy. It’s time to go to lunch." This tells me what you want me to do and what is going to happen next. Now it’s much easier for me to comply.


4. I am a concrete thinker. I interpret language literally. It’s very confusing for me when you say, "Hold your horses, cowboy!" when what you really mean is "Please stop running." Don’t tell me something is a "piece of cake" when there is no dessert in sight and what you really mean is, "This will be easy for you to do."


5. Be patient with my limited vocabulary. It’s hard for me to tell you what I need when I don’t know the words to describe my feelings. I may be hungry, frustrated, frightened or confused, but right now those words are beyond my ability to express. Be alert for body language, withdrawal, agitation, or other signs that something is wrong.


6. Because language is so difficult for me, I am very visually oriented. Show me how to do something rather than just telling me. And please be prepared to show me many times. Lots of patient repetition helps me learn.
   


7. Focus and build on what I can do rather than what I can’t do. Like any other human, I can’t learn in an environment where I’m constantly made to feel that I’m not good enough or that I need fixing.


8. Help me with social interactions. It may look like I don’t want to play with the other kids on the playground, but sometimes it’s just that I simply don’t know how to start a conversation or enter a play situation.


9. Try to identify what triggers my meltdowns. This is termed "the antecedent." Meltdowns, blowups, tantrums or whatever you want to call them are even more horrid for me than they are for you. They occur because one or more of my senses has gone into overload. If you can figure out why my meltdowns occur, they can be prevented.


10. If you are a family member, please love me unconditionally. Banish thoughts such as, "If he would just ..." and "Why can’t she ... ?" You didn’t fulfill every last expectation your parents had for you, and you wouldn’t like being constantly reminded of it. I didn’t choose to have autism. Remember that it’s happening to me, not you. Without your support, my chances of successful, self-reliant adulthood are slim. With your support and guidance, the possibilities are broader than you might think. I promise you I’m worth it.

It all comes down to three words: Patience. Patience. Patience.

Training Update

I've increased my cycling and run miles considerably. However, my weight loss has hit a standstill. My guess is, with all the cardio work I do, my lower body is getting stronger (more muscle) but my upper body is getting weaker (less muscle). I'm going to begin an upper body strength program designed to make you stronger and leaner. I hope the extra muscle mass with aid in fat burning.

Also, I've entered the Tacoma half marathon. 13.1 miles! This will be my longest ever running event but it's the next step in the progression. My goal will be 10 minute mile pace for the entire run. If I break 9:45 I'll be stoked. Wish me luck.

Why do you do it

I watch a lot of cycling and triathlon shows on TV (that you Universal Sports). As Gina and I watch these shows she will frequently make the comment "Those people must love pain". I don't really know how to respond to that statement so I don't. But, while talking to my friend Sean yesterday, he made a statement that really defines why people do these crazy endurance activities. As we were discussing my grandson Isaiah's nightmare life and how he goes through each day, I said "if Isaiah can wake up in the morning with a smile on his face, then I can endure a little pain to try to help him". Sean's reply was this..."It's great that you found the thing that motivates you. Now, I just need to find MY thing". That's when it hit me. The answer to Why is different for me than it might be for you. I have a young boy who gives me strength through a handsome, toothy smile and a two simple words, "Hi Papa". I challenge you to do something to make a difference to someone. I promise it'll be one of the most rewarding, life changing acts you will ever do. With that, I'm going to make an effort to motivate you through this blog with stories of people who found their motivation. Most of what I find will be sports/endurance related because that's what most interest me. However, I'll be happy to add a motivational story of other interest if someone sends it to me.

MEET HARRIET ANDERSON

Harriet has competed in the Ironman World Champ 18 times. Since her first race in 1989 she's missed triathlon’s most famous race only three times. She’s won her age group nine times. Anderson has never failed to place in the top five.

In the 2009 Ironman, eighty miles into the bike, Anderson is riding along smoothly. The 5:30 p.m. bike cutoff is a non-factor. Then, out of the blue, a male cyclist drifts beside Anderson from behind, clips her on the left side and knocks her to the ground.

“He didn’t say ‘On your left,’ ” recalls Anderson. “He just bumped right into me and I went sliding down on my right side.”

Anderson stopped to assess the damage. Her shoulders and ribs were sore. So was her right thigh where she landed. The bike took a hit, too. The brakes were rubbing on the rim of the tires. She released the brake lever and after at least a 10-minute delay, on she pedaled.

She still beat the bike cutoff by nearly an hour.

Harriet Anderson is 74 years old! How old are you?

For more on Harriet Anderson you can go to Unstoppable Harriet Anderson.

Frustration

It's been many days since I last wrote something. You get up earlier than the chickens, do your first workout, get ready for work, go to work, come home, do your 2nd workout then call it a day. There's no time to keep the blog updated! Until you realize, I watched TV for at least an hour. What a waste of time. I also realized, I don't write the blog for you, I don't write it for me. I write for Isaiah. He doesn't complain, he just goes about his day dealing with life and the unfair cards he's been dealt.

Another reason for my frustration...

To date, I've seen no donation assistance for this cause except for me and a couple people who've never even met Isaiah or have Autism touch them in any way. At the same time, I've seen family members donate to the girl scouts, the annual local school kids selling their goods and other causes. Don't get me wrong, these things are important but are any of these things more important to this family than the disease that effects one of us? How many countless hours have YOU spent shopping on the internet, watching TV... and you can't take 5 minutes to donate a single dollar to help one of our family members. I don't get it.

Well, even through the frustration I've still been able to focus on training. My fitness level is the best it's been in 2o years. I'm to the point now where I actually look forward to running a 10k. Finding a swimming venue is still posing a challenge. I know I can do the bike leg, I'm pretty confident I can complete the run but the swimming is still the unknown. Any suggestion would be greatly appreciated.

578 days to go

EARLY SIGNS OF AUTISM

It's important to be familiar with the symptoms and signs of Autism. In the last 20 years Autism has increased dramatically (it's important to note: some "experts" believe some of the increased diagnosis are due to a change in the definition of Autism. However, everyone agrees the number of children effected has gone up). Awareness is important so the child AND THE PARENT can get help as soon as possible. It's human nature to ignore the signs because no parent wants to admit there child has a fault. This is due to fear not neglect. Autism-help is a great resource for education. I recommend everyone, even if you do not have children of your own, get as educated as possible.

HEALTH AND NUTRITION

This is a new section of the blog. Since the goal of this blog is for Autism Awareness, this section will related to Autism but I hope everyone can find benefit.

FOOD SENSITIVITY

There is growing evidence that many people with autism are sensitive to certain food products. This is also true for people who do not have Autism. The most common food products to which this sensitivity develops are grains (e.g., wheat, rye, oats) and dairy products (e.g., milk, cheese, whey). Other foods, which are often consumed during the spring and summer, are strawberries and citrus fruit. Food sensitivities are considered by many people as allergies in that one's immune system is overly reactive to these substances. Food sensitivities may be responsible for numerous physical and behavioral problems, such as headaches, stomachaches, feeling of nausea, bed-wetting, appearing 'spaced out,' stuttering, excessive whining and crying, sleeping problems, hyperactivity, aggression, sound sensitivity, temper tantrums, fatigue, depression, ntestinal problems (i.e., gas, diarrhea, constipation), muscle aches in the legs, ear infections and possibly seizures.

If you're starting a weight loss program or are experiencing any of the above systems, it could be food allergies. This is easily my most successful attempt at getting healthier. Some may say it's because of the amount of workouts I do each week. But, for those of you who've known me for for a while can attest, this cardio work is pretty normal for me. I believe the success I'm having is because I write down everything that goes in my mouth. I compare that with how I felt during my workout. This tells me what foods are good for me and which ones to stay away from. Of course, you'll find the foods you crave the most are the one's you'll need to stay away from. No more pancakes and waffles for me :-(

GOAL UPDATE

We have confirmed donations totaling $100.00. It may seem small but it'll grow exponentially. Thank for all your help.

580 days to Ironman

AUTISM DIET AND NUTRITION

The Autism Research Institute asserts that nutritional treatments have shown great success in autism treatment. They suggest for an autism diet avoiding yeast, glutens, casein and any allergens. The Chinese medical diet is determined by flavor (pungent, sweet, salty), temperature (both physical and energy quality) and action on the body. Central to the philosophy and practice of Chinese medicine, it is thought that many, if not most, of our health problems are related to imbalances in our diet. Sensitivity to foods is not the cause of autism, but it does appear that certain components of foods exacerbate some of autism's symptoms. Dietary therapy, by creating a healthy autism diet, helps patients treat illness and maintain health. The general rule in Chinese diet therapy is, "Warm foods restore balance. Just go to the center and forget either extreme." The following are Mary Cissy Majebe's suggested practices for an autism diet.

• Warming foods that have been lightly cooked or steamed are beneficial for autistic people. Medicinally, warming foods warm meridians, strengthen yang, invigorate Blood, open collateral meridians, and eliminate cold . A "warming" food refers to the physical temperature of food as well as its energetic properties. Dry ginger and garlic, energetically, are both warming foods -- they create heat or warmth in the digestive tract.

All vegetables, particularly root vegetables, are considered warming. Suggested vegetables include: acorn squash, spaghetti squash, butternut squash, pumpkins, kale, spinach, Swiss chard, collard greens, mustard greens, sweet potatoes, yams, turnips, radishes, carrots, button mushrooms and scallions. Grains such as brown rice, white rice, amaranth, millet, barley and quinoa are beneficial. Suggested legumes include lima , navy, adzuki, kidney and lentil beans. Many animal proteins such as chicken or turkey are also considered warming, but should be additive, hormone and antibiotic free.

WHAT THE KALE

A couple days ago I mention that I had an excellent kale dish (perfectly prepared by wife). Well, my friend Lou asked that I post the recipe. This is a link to recipe from Food Network.

For those of you unfamiliar:

Kale is absolutely rich and abundant in calcium, lutein, iron, and Vitamins A, C, and K. Kale has seven times the beta-carotene of broccoli and ten times more lutein. Kale is rich in Vitamin C not to mention the much needed fiber so lacking in the daily diet of processed food eating Americans. The "Icing on the Kale" are the natural occurring all important phytochemicals sulforaphane and indoles which research suggests may protect against cancer. Let's not forget the all important antioxidant Vitamin E. Rest assured kale spares nothing in providing one with much needed nutrients and associated health benefits.

GOAL UPDATE

It's brought to my attention that some have donated but I haven't been notified. If anyone has donated please send me an email. As you know our goal is $50k by the Ironman. I need the info so I can update our efforts.

TRAINING UPDATE

Still plugging along with the 2-a-day training. Still only cycling and running but the results are still coming. My friend Ryan has volunteered to help me with the swimming leg. He's one of those special operation military types who's competed in many triathlons so, I think I'll be in good hands.

Kestrel USA has agreed to work with me on a triathlon bike. I'm not sure if it'll be free but I know they want to not only help me with gear but they'll help with the Autism cause as well. I'll keep you updated on the progress and look for a link and logo to their website.

582 Days to the Ironman

THE CHILD WITH AUTISM

Most infants and young children are very social creatures who need and want contact with others to thrive and grow. They smile, cuddle, laugh, and respond eagerly to games like "peek-a-boo" or hide-and-seek. Occasionally, however, a child does not interact in this expected manner. Instead, the child seems to exist in his or her own world, a place characterized by repetitive routines, odd and peculiar behaviors, problems in communication, and a total lack of social awareness or interest in others. These are characteristics of a developmental disorder called autism.

This is an excerpt from a document I found on the web. To download a .pdf of the entire article, click HERE.

FUND-RAISING UPDATE

As of today, we've received many kind reply's and words of encouragement. But, NO MONEY!!!
This thing doesn't work if we can't raise any money.

I've been told that I can "Brow Beat" people into anything. Well, The brow beating will commence NOW! I don't care if you don't follow anything I do but I must have your support with the fund-raiser. Come on people. Even if it's only a dollar it'll help.

TRAINING

Today I ran a 5k this morning before work and biked a 50k after work. In case you haven't noticed, there's a reoccurring theme here. I have not yet swam. At all. A triathlon consist of SWIM, Bike and Run. The swim is more difficult than both the bike and run together. If I don't start getting to water soon. This is going to be a short lived goal.

583 days to the Ironman

Why is Autism on the rise?

One possibility is Thimersal. Thimerosal is the preservative of choice for vaccine manufacturers. First introduced by Eli Lilly and Company in the late 1920s and early 1930s, the company began selling it as a preservative in vaccines in the 1940s. Thimerosal contains 49.6 percent mercury by weight and is metabolized or degraded into ethylmercury and thiosalicylate. The Department of Defense classifies mercury as a hazardous material that could cause death if swallowed, inhaled or absorbed through the skin. My question is, If mercury is classified as a hazardous material, why is it allowed to be injected into our children?

For more on this you can go to Natural News.

Donation Update

We have some verbal confirmations for donations. Thanks. Please don't forget to add Isaiah's name as the "In honor of" area of the donation page and make sure to add me as "Acknowledgment" person. Without it, I won't be able to correctly track the donations and update our goal.

Yesterday I received a call from Florida. A cycling friend, Lou, got wind of our fundraiser and is on-board. Lou is not only going to donate to Autism Research Inst. but he's also going to use it as a motivational tool to get in better shape. Way to go and Thanks for supporting us.

My friend Alex has also agreed to jump on Team for Isaiah (as he put it). I like the name. I'm going to check into having shirts, cycling jerseys, hats... made up. If I can get them made inexpensively maybe we can resell them and donate proceeds to Autism Research. Thanks Alex.

We Need an Artist

Would anyone be interested in creating a "Team for Isaiah" logo? It would be a donation of time on your part but we would greatly appreciate it.

Training Update

Ran a 10k last night. My time was a little slow but it was pretty hilly, at least for me. I'll be working and traveling today but I plan to do some cycling at some point today. I've decided to start my morning at trainings at 0430. That means waking up at 0400. YUK! But it'll give me the chance to do two a days without taking so much time away from the family.

584 days to the Ironman

I'm going to take you back a couple days.

Sunday, Feb. 28
My friends Alex and Ken joined me in riding the Chilly Hilly. 32 miles, 2800 ft of elevation gain. It's nothing like a stage of the Tour de France but for 3 hacks... pretty challenging.
Later that night Gina, Serg and I was watching a program about the 2004 Ironman. There was a guy in the event, who lost 7 men from his military unit. He was competing to raise money for those men's children. My beloved wife said, "Honey, you should try that". That's what got this thing started.

Monday, March 1
Happy Birthday little brother Mark!
Road 20 miles today and followed it up with a 4 mile run. My legs were pretty sore when I started (thanks Chilly Hilly). The bike ride was pretty good. A few hills but not overly challenging. However, the run was painful. My quads started cramping during the run at about mile 2. On a downhill of all things. But, this project is for Isaiah. He goes through much more everyday than some cramps. I can fight through this. And, I did. Thank you Isaiah.

Tuesday, March 2
No workout today. My legs needed the rest. Today was a focus on nutrition. Gina made a great kale dish. If any of you are interested. Let me know and I'll post a link to the recipe. Although I didn't do any cardio today, my lovely wife got on her bike for 20 minutes.

Wednesday, March 3
I have to go to Richland, WA for the next couple of days. I need to be on the road by 0700 so I was up at 0445. Took care of Grandpa then on the bike for an hour. Plan to run and swim tonight.


Lolly, thanks for the encouraging email and donation to the Autism Research Institute. You were the first to help our fight.

Please keep in mind, this is about Autism and Isaiah's fight. He is my inspiration! What we go through everyday is nothing. You can find stories about how this disorder affects families all over the web. This is just one of the many.

Last thing today. I just kind of write this stuff as I go. Whatever comes to mind is what goes on the blog. Again, I'm not doing it for me it's for the cause so, if you have any ideas about something you want to see on the blog, let me know. I'm open to suggestion. And, as my friend Morrie knows, I need all the help I can get with this stuff.

Thanks everyone. God Bless You All!

I need your help!

My Grandson, Isaiah, has Autism. No one knows why or how someone is affected by this horrible disorder or how to cure it.

What is Autism?
Autism is a severe developmental disorder that begins at birth or within the first two-and-a-half years of life. Most autistic children are perfectly normal in appearance, but spend their time engaged in puzzling and disturbing behaviors which are markedly different from those of typical children.
To learn more you can go to What is Autism?.

What can I do?
Isaiah's been living with this his whole life. The only real help he's gotten is from his Father (thanks Scott). Well, it's time to get in the game. Since I can't be there (geographically challenged) to give him my time I have another plan. I'm going to turn my cycling, running and triathlons into money to help find a cure for this disorder.

What can you do?
Donate money, but not to me. I found the Autism Research Institute in San Diego, CA. They're rated very high by Charity Navigator as far as putting the most amount of donation money to the actual charity. I believe that's where your money can do the most good.

How will it work?
I'm going to use this blog to track training, events and the money we raise. My goal is to raise $50,000.00 by the Hawaii Ironman event. I currently have 3 events planned.

Seattle to Portland (7/17/2010)
This is a 1 day, 206 mile bike ride from Seattle, WA to Portland, OR

Lake Meridian Triathlon (8/22/2010)
1.5k swim, 40k bike, 10k run

Hawaii Ironman Triathlon (10/08/2011)
2.5 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run

Obviously the culminating event will be the Ironman. I'll be adding events as I go but the main goal is to raise money and awareness for Autism in the name of my very special grandson. I also hope to add sponsors along the way. I'll keep this updated as much as possible.