Throughout our lives we will meet many different people.Some pass through our lives for a few seconds, while others stay longer and touch us in a special way.
My friend Deddie Swaney is someone that touched my life, and the lives of many others throughout her life. She is a woman of courage, determination and kindness, and with 47 marathons under her belt, recently lost her fight against cancer at the age of 44.
I first met Deddie nine years ago at work and was drawn to her kindness.Deddie was an avid (酷爱的) runner and was known around the office for her love of the sport.She soon inspired (鼓舞) me to join her by first training for a relay, later followed by a marathon. Throughout the years, she bridged many close friendships and coached many of us to our first marathons.
I will never forget Deddie's strength as she pulled me through some very long and difficult runs. No matter how cold or how early it was, she would always make time for a run and the chance to spend time with her friends.
It was Deddie's goal to run a marathon in all 50 states. She proudly finished 39 states and 11 remained unfinished. Throughout her marathons, Deddie would stop to help other runners along the way who were struggling. For Deddie, it wasn't about the time she finished the race in, but meeting other runners throughout her journey and helping coach them to reach the finish line.
Deddie was first diagnosed (诊断) with cancer almost five months ago. Although the true source of her cancer is undetermined, it is a very rare form of cancer for someone of her young age. With great determination and her 47 marathon medals, Deddie never lost her courage, hope and faith.
Deddie lost her fight against cancer on July 8, 2007. Deddie was more than a runner; she was also an inspiration to many and will be missed by those that she touched in her life.
