PIVOTING

 PIVOTING

Hello. The world is in chaos and I'm writing. I haven't logged on in YEARS. I miss this, but I admit, I've been scared to face the keyboard and let my thoughts pour. 

How Are You????

When I was driving home tonight, after engaging in enlighting conversations, I was cursing out loud. I won't repeat the exact words but somehow, someway, the curse words changed to the phrase... 

"That's what I do. PIVOT."

Normally, on a night like this, when my emotions are at an all time high and my mind is moving like a bullet train in Tokyo, I'd be dancing by myself. I don't know why this evening, now early morn, is different. 

I've been hesistant to share. The judgement can be harsh. I'd rather live my life as I wish and carry on. I can't even begin to divulge the life experiences that have wrapped me up and spit me out, as I've navigated the art of Pivoting.

I actually decided to be scholarly and look up the definitation of "PIVOT." EVERY SINGLE FREAKIN DEFINITION MENTIONED THE WORD "BUSINESS" and NOT THE HUMAN SPIRIT. What is that? Our Psychology 101 college courses need to be edited, STAT! Immediately. For this is the only way we will survive this trauma induced, chaos world is by learning how to PIVOT.

I can't spill my secrets on my approach to writing but I can share, right now, I'm breaking every rule. To survive, we must learn how to analyze and realize when it's time to turn around, touch your toes, do jumping jacks, maybe a burpee or two, to impress yourslf, and of course, add a push up, and run a mile,  mixed into the spontaneous routine of life.

Be strong. Be confident. Know right from wrong. 

But in a chaotic, mixed up message filled world, your head can begin to spin. And then you just want to freeze and do nothing. It's like you are stuck in a pile of concrete and you want to move but you can't. The situation seems hopeless.

How Are You?

I've experienced SO MUCH TRAUMA in my life that very few know about. And just when there was a light guiding me, in the direction of everyday happiness, one of my best friends disappeared without a trace, the world shut down, my dad died, my chronic/fatigue invaded my body with a vengeance, and I've been on strike for, let's see...95 days. And that's just what I've personally had to sort through, dig myself out, and PIVOT. 

The world is a mess right now and each day, I try my best to navigate positivity and joy, but it is really (curse word) hard.  You lnow that my husband dosen't like it when I swear. But when I'm angry or upset, I give myself permission.

I want you to know that you can PIVOT too. Practice the art of pivoting everyday and your days will begin to feel differently. You will slowly, but surely, rise from the aftermath and do better in this world, after absorbing the grief that engulfs each and everyone of us, thrashing your emotions, and trying your best to comprehend the reasoning behind the unnecessary suffering. This is why I was never the scholarly type.

I never said, ignore. 

Repeat after me "I can PIVOT."

But HOW? You have a voice, you can listen, you can advocate, you can stay still and meditate and empathize, you can be a changemaker, a fundraiser, or a donor. Just don't stay still in the concrete.

That is all. 

Good Night.

Wake Up.

Go PIVOT.

The Pretending Game

Surprisingly! Somehow, someway, my blog is being viewed, all around the world! To be honest, I've had writer's block for quite some time. I'm not sure why and I thought it would magically disappear but to my dismay, it stayed.
So here I am, typing at a keyboard for the world to see what words will appear...
I'm not your typical writer and I acknowledge this in a world of predictability.
My daughter decided to go rummaging through a stack of old college papers. These are not ordinary, boring, college essays. She had leaped upon a pot of gold...my essays from years of my creative writing classes where I poured out my heart and soul. How I wish I could unload such honesty and emotion these days? As she read through my essays, I kept yelling for the world to hear "Oh my gosh, WHO wrote this?"
And it made me quite a bit sad because that piece of me has disappeared for quite some time. So, here I am, digging deep, and letting the words fly, as I type.
Honestly, if I tell the truth, the words hurt too much. Life has been good. And life has been a jack in the box. I wake up everyday, praying not to hear "please call me" from my Mom.
Father's Day was a bag of mixed emotions. I wanted to push the thoughts far away and tried to distract myself. Who am I fooling? My Dad is my Everything. I honestly don't know what will happen when he is no longer in this world. My world might go spinning out of control. I've warned my husband. I'll need an anchor. I'll want to run. I'll probably start running ultra's again. When I'm in the woods, I have this feeling of being one with nature, a certain calmness takes over me. Even when I'm lost in the woods and have no idea where I'm going, I always end up heading the right way.
My Dad has Lewy Body dementia and it's absolutely devastating. I wish my parents hadn't moved away. I wish I was closer to help my Mom. I think about her everyday and all that she is going through. I have flashbacks of that tearful moment with my Dad, visiting with my kids, and me, and my husband, and I knew, that he knew, deep inside his mind, who we were and the flashbacks of soccer games, basketball games, band concerts, and family celebrations. The tears are endless. A sort of traumatic grief of losing a wonderful man to a dreadful disease that robs your mind and body.
Honestly, it is hard to express the rage I feel. I want my Dad back. If only I had known the brief window of time we had, I would have relished all those moments spent with him. I can't even begin to explain how sad I am. And if you see me, you might never know, because I hide it well, and carry on.

REMEMBER EVERYTHING....it's not fair

I write as I run. My thoughts are a million miles a minute, Here they come...
IT'S NOT FAIR.
I've been so silent for so long. Because I knew the emotions would absolutely flood me.


And now here we are.

IT'S NOT FAIR.

Hello. Wake Up. No One EVER said life would be fair. SO GRIN and Bear it.

Yesss....I stay silent as I scream to the moon.

I wish I could write more often. I wish I could just sit here and spill all my thoughts to the Universe, Could you imagine how freeing that would be??????

My life chases me.

There are so many thoughts I kick around in my chaotic mind

OKay,,,,give me a moment here, as I breathe....

Spinning, endlessly, amongst the boundaries of the Universe.

I'm constantly wondering
But my thoughts remain within myself.

And now it's a new song
AND I DANCE

Yes, I loose myself.
Into the music I go.
Escape
Spinning, Moving, Not Being Still
Because
then I would have to remember...

life is about living in the moment..
HA! SO CLICHE'

Blink
Don't Open Your Eyes.
FRozen
In Time.
Don't Ever, Ever
WHAT DID YOU DO??

I told You.
Close Your Eyes.
Close Your Eyes.
Close Your Eyes.

HOLD ON
EMBRACE
WHAT ARE YOU FEELING
RIGHT NOW

REMEMBER
EVERYTHING

IT ALL COUNTS.

Holiday, Hearts and Home Benefit Concert Fundraiser for Puerto Rico relief efforts is TONIGHT!

Don't miss this amazing one night only benefit concert at Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth Street, SW, Washington, DC, to assist with relief efforts to Puerto Rico! 

Holiday-Hearts-and-Home benefit concert is TONIGHT, Monday, December 11th, 2017 at 7pm. All ticket and cash bar sales will go towards supporting local chef Jose' Andrés’ charity World Central Kitchen (worldcentralkitchen.org/) as well as #ChefsForPuertoRico, providing relief efforts to Puerto Rico following the destructiveness of Hurricane Maria.

Tickets are available at the door this evening or online for $40: Holidays Hearts and Home benefit concert for Puerto Rico.

Victor Wisehart is the actor, who currently plays Charley, the Fix it Man, in the Pajama Game, that spearheaded this fundraiser event. Holidays, Hearts, and Home was created by, directed and produced by Victor Wisehart. I spoke to him about this event, after seeing him perform in the The Pajama Game at the Arena Theater, a week ago. "It is important to give back to the community and do good when the opportunity arises."

It will be a magical evening! Hosted by four-time Helen Hayes Award-winner Ed Gero and featuring amazing talent, who are cast members from The Pajama Game, as well as, guest stars of the Washington, D.C. area theater community, including Natascia Diaz, Britney Coleman and Tim Rogan. They will be performing beloved holiday classics and musical theater songs.  

METRO: Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater is only one block from the Waterfront-SEU Metro station (Green Line). When exiting the station, walk west on M Street toward Sixth Street, and the main entrance to the Mead Center is on the right.

PARKING: Parking is available in Arena Stage’s on-site garage for $22 on a first-come, first-served basis. Patrons can also park at the Public Parking Garage at 1101 Fourth Street, one block from the Mead Center, for $14.

To download press images, click here.

How are you?

Well,

Hello, there.

It's been awhile.

I just checked in, since 4/10/17. And you guys are still stopping by.

I have to say...that Boston Marathon charity team, well, I'm still processing. I should probably be in therapy. I SO want to post "Confessions of a Boston Marathon Charity Runner."

And, of as, right now, I'll leave it at that, because I simply do not have the energy or time but maybe, one day. Right now, I would advise you to stay away. If you need me to elaborate, I'd be happy to respond to a personal message.

And here we are, at 3 in the morning. WoW! It's a partay on my blog!

I'm all over the place. I've had the yearning to write but I always seem to be falling asleep in my contacts.

I just need to write. It's in my soul. I need to let it go. Like when I listen to live music and I become a dancing queen.

Pain. Doctors. Tears. Healing.

For the first time since December 2009, I DO NOT HAVE A RACE ON MY CALENDAR! I sorta feel like I'm floating in outer space.

confession: I'm #11 on the Umstead 100 Miler waiting list. Would I go if they said
"You're up"??? Hell ya. And my goal would be to make it past the 50 mile line. I haven't ran more than 5 miles since September but that's how I rock n roll.

IT'S ALL IN YOUR HEAD.

Hey, did you see Shalane Flanagan WINNING the NYC marathon?? YES, this is amazing. But what is even more amazing is that she is a foster Mom. You win my heart. I was once, a long time ago, in foster care. It was the highlight of Boston, to meet Shalane and tell her THANK YOU.

DREAM BIG. CHASE YOUR DREAMS.

More and more, I whisper this to myself as I chase a career that is full of rejection and self doubt. Be true to yourself, I keep saying over and over again, as I submit one more self audition tape.

The truth is I've been very lucky these past two years and have worked really, really hard to be where I am in my acting career and there is a stepping stone that is next that I'm not so sure of...

I'm either ALL IN or all out.

My world is spinning in all sorts of directions. But for the first time in a long time I realized I don't have anything I am truly looking forward to or excited to cross off my bucket list.

As I stay quiet and reflect, more and more, my inner voice yells "run for office."

And these are just a few thoughts.........

HOW ARE YOU????

On Line Fundraisers for 261 Fearless are ending TODAY & TOMORROW!

261 Fearless Boston Marathon Charity Team Fundraiser 

A quick fundraising update before I head out to my bake sale this afternoon!

I woke up today & was SO thankful to see three friends had donated to 261 Fearless! I'm slowly reaching my goal but still have a LOONG way to go before my fundraising deadline, APRIL 13th!! Right now, I'm at $3,926 & need to reach $7,261! I have a bake sale TODAY, 3-7pm, at Giant, Northpoint Shopping Center in Reston.

*261 Fearless On-Line Fundraiser orders are due TODAY for Pampered Chef & Stella and Dot! The BeautyCounter fundraiser orders are due TOMORROW!  A great way to get your Mother's Day shopping done early! 

You can order through TODAY APRIL 10th:

Stella and Dot

Pampered Chef

You can order through TODAY APRIL 11th: Beautycounter


Click on 261 Fearless to donate directly to my fundraising page!

🌟 MY FUNDRAISING DEADLINE IS APRIL 13TH AT MIDNIGHT! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT! 💙💛💙💛

You're Invited! Monday, MARCH 20th, 5-8PM, Piero's Corner Giveback Event to benefit 261 Fearless

Hi Northern VA Friends! Please Save the Date! 


What: Piero's Corner Giveback to 261 Fearless Boston Charity Team
When: MONDAY, MARCH 20th
Time: 5-8PM
Where: PIERO'S CORNER, located: 
Franklin Farm Village Shopping Center, 13340 Franklin Farm Rd, Herndon, VA 20171. 

This is a Public Event! Reservations are strongly encouraged! 703-707-6400.  

On 3/20, from 5-8PM, a portion of every DINE IN and TO GO sales will be donated to 261 Fearless Boston Marathon charity team! 💙💛 Please remember to mention "261 Fearless" to your server!

Why should you dine at Piero's Corner on MONDAY, 3/20?

• It's HALF PRICE NIGHT for TEACHERS & MILITARY! (Dine In only)

• Piero's serves fresh, delicious Italian food and has a great selection of wine! Don't forget dessert: gelato, tiramisu and cannoli!

• There will also be raffle prizes from local vendors: Piero's Corner, Little Lords & Ladies consignment shop, Baskin Robbins, Giant, and PR & Partners!

• Piero's Corner is a family/ kid friendly restaurant! A kids menu is available!

• My friend Lisa (a fellow Lyme Warrior) from Stella & Dot will be there too with a gorgeous collection of accessories! 20% of your purchase will be donated, so you can updated your spring look for a great cause! Can't make it in person? You can shop online here towards the fundraiser.

PLEASE SHARE this blog post! PLEASE INVITE your family and friends! THANK YOU for your support! I can't wait to see you on Monday night! 😊 

Amy 

#LymeWarrior

*If you are unable to attend this fundraising event but would like to read my story on how I run Fearlessly with chronic Lyme disease and/or to make a donation and support me on my Fearless journey to the Boston Marathon 2017, check out my 261 Fearless Boston Charity Team link. 

EVERY DONATION IS TAX DEDUCTIBLE AND SO APPRECIATED!!! 😘 MY FUNDRAISING DEADLINE IS APRIL 15TH, 2017! THANK YOU!

You can also send a check: 
Make a check payable to "261 Fearless, Inc." 
On the memo line of the check, please indicate that the donation is for "TEAM BOSTON & Amy Fitzgerald" 

Please mail check to: 
261 Fearless, Inc. c/o Lipset 
18 Longwood Road Port 
Washington, NY 11050-1260 
Attn: TEAM 261 Fearless Boston

Lost and Lonely

Do you ever wish you could stop time and be still for awhile? Relish the moment and take it all in?

Lately, my life has been topsy turvey and I feel pulled in so many directions, as my emotions are all over the place. I have to keep it all inside. Maybe one day I can share all these emotions with my family and friends? But right now, I feel very alone.

This is about raw truth. painful emotions, trying to find acceptance of the unknown. Have you ever been in that place, where you felt like no one could understand everything you are going through?

I have purposefully not been submitting for casting calls because I honestly feel like I will bust out in tears at any moment. I haven't felt this fragile in a long time. Maybe I should be looking for roles describing a "40ish woman who is on a soulful search."

How can life appear to be so good when so much is wrong?

You have to accept the goodness and be thankful for waking up to the sunrise each day. There is a college sorority sister of mine who may not wake up to see that awesome sunrise tomorrow. The news was delivered this week, on the birthday of a dear friend, who had passed away from the same exact illness. Breast cancer, spread to the lungs, and then to her brain. The nightmare is repeating itself.  

As your world collides, you have to put it all in perspective. You are not sure about the answers but you know your life is going to be different, from here on out. 

Sometimes, like tonight, I wonder how I got so lucky with my family? How did God know to match us up perfectly.and ever so, imperfectly? I was an orphan without a home and then I found my forever family, only later in life, to be blessed with my husband and kids and a rescue pup.

Life will never make sense, Life will never be fair. So when those ride them high wave days arrive, you have to savor every moment. The trick is stopping and looking around and seeing the simple things turn extraordinary.

I have been so consumed with grief and worry and a general sense of unhappiness that I feel like I have lost my way and I am desperately searching to find my way back. 

I am running. It is what I always do when I am searching for answers. But my body is all wacky and I don't know why? I am usually so in tune with my body and listen to it carefully. But I can't pinpoint what's wrong. I feel slow, dull, lifeless, with each step.  Maybe it's because I'm carrying so much extra weight on my shoulders?

The (Shamrock) marathon I'm running this weekend is kind of a big deal. It will be the longest I have ran since Marine Corps Marathon, October 2016. I don't want to finish in the back of the pack. I will try my hardest to run at the pace I'm supposed to be running. 

I will think of all those who cannot run and I will run for them. 

I will be thankful for each step. I will try to savor each moment and not focus on the pain. I will find my way again. It is guaranteed I will have a good cry after crossing that finish line. Only one small hurdle I will have accomplished. As the future will remain uncertain.

Amy

Athleta Shop For A Cause 261 Fearless March 7th

Athleta Reston Town Center Friends and Family!

Running Boston: 261 Fearless Charity Team 

Shop For A Cause! 

Tuesday, March 7th - All Day

Come pre-shop the Friends and Family Sale and get 25% off* your purchase! RSVP requested but not required. 703-668-0256. Phone orders also welcomed! 

PLEASE MENTION "261 FEARLESS" AT CHECKOUT! A portion of each sale will be donated to 261 Fearless charity team for the Boston Marathon! Please share with your family and friends! Click here for more information about 261 Fearless

There will be Fun, Refreshments and Raffles! 

Athleta will validate parking using RTC app (for any garage) with ANY purchase!

*Some discount exclusions may apply.

*If you're unable to attend the fundraiser but would like to support 261 Fearless and my fearless running journey to the Boston Marathon, please consider making a tax deductible donation! EVERY donation is SO appreciated! My fundraising goal is $7,261!! 

https://www.crowdrise.com/261fearlessboston2017/fundraiser/amyfitzgerald

THANK YOU! 

AMY

#LymeWarrior

Happy Valentine's Day 2017

Happy Valentine’s Day 2017! 

Dear Family and Friends! 

How are you? I wanted to send out a holiday card, and then a Happy New Year’s Day card but then, that never happened! I think I may have started a new tradition?! I haven’t written a letter in two years so this will be a recap of our crazy lives for 2015 & 2016!

We have enjoyed family summer trips to the Outer Banks the last two summers and visiting with Uncle Brad and Grandma and Grandpa Fitzgerald! A special treat this year was a trip to Corolla to see the wild horses! We went just before sunset and it was an awesome adventure, successfully sighting several wild horses!

In 2015, the kids spent time at the cabin in Ely, MN, with Grandma and Grandpa Pope and Preston and I planned a last minute trip to Ireland! It was a whirlwind trip, as Preston drove around the entire country and we hardly slept! We had unbelievably fantastic weather and the entire country had spectacular views! We spent the night in a castle and it was like a fairytale come true! Some of our favorite sights were up North while exploring Giant's Causeway (definitely worth the trip), the Cliffs of Mohr, Conors Pass and the quaint town of Galway. One of our last outings started at the Guinness Brewery in Dublin and then dancing all night in the Irish pubs! We never slept before heading to the airport at sunrise! Sleep is overrated!

This summer, instead of taking a vacation separate from the kids, I traveled to Minnesota with the kids and we stayed in Minnesota for a week, visiting with Grandma and Grandpa Pope. I haven't been there in forever so it was good to be back. The sauna was a highlight and daily runs along the dirt path were soothing to the soul. The air was fresh and the lake views were beautiful. Dave and Adrienne's visit overlapped ours so we spent lots of quality time together! We enjoyed family meals, going into town, swimming in the lake, and as a special treat, lit a campfire one night, under the moonlight!

I was a chaperone for the band/chorus field trip to Hershey Park, last Spring. I rode the roller coasters with my "Mom" friends since the twins didn't want to hang out with me! We also planned a family "surprise" trip to Busch Gardens this summer and had SO MUCH FUN! Even the littlest one was riding the roller coasters! We are definitely an adventurous family!

For the kids big Christmas present this year, I was able to plan a last minute get away to Disney! I planned our vacation in 30 days (which I'm told is a nearly impossible feat)! I hired a Disney vacation planner and sought advice from my Disney fanatic friends! We managed to keep quiet about the trip until the big reveal, a few days before we left! We had them put together a puzzle that had a message on where to find clues. Eventually they found the last clue, their magic bands! The trip was an amazing adventure! We had great weather and rode all the rides except for the ones that were being refurbished. The Rock n Roll roller coaster (my fave) and the Big Thunder Mountain (Preston's fave) were both closed. But we made the most of our trip, riding everything else while exploring Disney! Our favorite park was Epcot and one night we took the kids to the restaurant where I used to work as an intern, The Coral Reef. The 2nd largest fish tank in the USA is located here and the kids were mesmerized! The staff was so nice and I saw someone that I used to work with! 

Before heading home. I ran the Wine-nDine Disney Half Marathon, a new race for me! It was a great race but getting up at 3am is never fun! I almost rode Test Track at Mile 12 - it would have been a repeat of the Walt Disney World Half Marathon roller coaster stunt that I pulled off! The employee was lifting up the red ropes for people to go into the park, right as I was running by...I was tempted but then thought "been there, done that, let's finish this race!" 

The kids are doing great and keep us busy with all their activities! The twins started middle school, Fall 2015, and have been thriving in a fantastic academic environment.  It’s hard to believe that “our babies” will be in high school, Fall 2017! They turned 14 last month! Both Caitlyn & Connor have started to babysit for local neighbors and are enjoying having some extra money!  

Caitlyn’s artistic abilities are mind blowing and we (along with her art teacher) are amazed at the art she creates! If anyone has connections with Pixar, please let us know! Caitlyn has continued with Girl Scouts and playing basketball with CYA. Her team is currently in first place! Hello playoffs! She also sings in her school choir and is a worship leader/singer in the Full Circle band at church.

Connor continues to play on a travel soccer team and plays indoor futsol.  He had to switch teams this past year because of new age rules but is fine tuning his soccer skills with his new team! Connor has played the trombone the last four years and is considering playing in the high school band. I really hope he does! I have so many great memories practicing/performing with the band when I was on the flag corp! He loves playing video games and often beats Preston! Connor also enjoys watching sports (especially VA Teach) and is full of sports facts. I have no idea how he memorizes it all! Fall 2015, Preston and Connor took a boys trip to Blacksburg to watch the Hokies play football!

Kiley started 5^th grade this year and is doing so well in school, along with her speech, it was recommended during her IEP meeting that her speech hours be decreased. She is turning into quite the chatterbox and overcoming her apraxia! Kiley has also continued participating in her Girl Scout troop and playing basketball with CYA! Her nickname is “Kiley long legs!” She is almost as tall as me! Last year she played the violin and decided it wasn’t for her. This year she joined the school choir and is not quite sure she was born to be a singer. She joined the drama club at my persistence. Kiley is a natural born actress but she hasn’t realized it yet!

Preston’s work has been a bit crazy. He was with Dell for 5 years. And then, April 2016, the company downsized and unfortunately, he was laid off. He bounced back and accepted a sales job with Verint, a company that sells software to call centers.  Preston has been working out in the mornings and running sporadically (he will admit it is not his favorite sport). One of his biggest accomplishments is learning how to play the guitar! He takes on-line lessons and turns our basement into a rock show at night when he practices!

Lucky “pup” thinks he is a human and I’m convinced in his previous life he was a Prince!  He is the most pampered, snuggling dog ever! He turned four years old last month and still acts like a puppy bringing love and kisses to everyone he meets!

I don’t even know where to start with me! I’m all over the place! I decided to pursue acting, after being on the House of Cards, Season 4, as a hair double and having my own trailer and receiving my first SAG waiver (you need 3 to join the Union).  This happened the Summer of 2015 and exactly one year later, after a roller coaster year of acting and being offered an amazing SAG acting opportunity, I was invited to join the Actor’s Union. I officially joined SAG-AFTRA this past November!  I was recently appointed to serve on the SAG-AFTRA MOVE (political action) subcommittee and to be an alternate member to the SAG-AFTRA Actor/Performer Committee.  I’m excited to take on these roles within the Union!

It has been an incredible year and half and I have been fortunate to work on several TV shows such as VEEP, House of Cards and many shows on the ID Channel (Investigation Discovery), as well as, a few movie sets – TRI (indie film), Jackie (with Natalie Portman), and a Bollywood movie coming out this March! I just wrapped filming my first co-star role on an indie horror student film. I will keep you posted when this is released!

My writing has taken a backseat and my goal is to write more often this year. I really do miss it! So please keep checking back here and look for new blog posts! 

I have continued following my passion to run and successfully finished the Umstead 100 Miler in March 2015! It took me 29 hours and 36 minutes to complete! I finished with frostbite feet but went on to run the Big Sur Marathon a month later and finished with American Olympian, Jeff Galloway! I also ran my 5^th Marine Corps Marathon in October 2015, which qualified me for the MCM Runner’s Club (yay! I get to skip the MCM lottery)! I also finished my 3^rd JFK 50 Miler in 2015! have honestly lost count how many ultra’s/marathons I have run. 

I continued to run in 2016! My proudest moment was being asked to be a guest speaker at the Loudoun Lyme 5K/10K, a cause that I’m passionate about raising money to find a cure! I ran the Shamrock Marathon and the Marine Corps Marathon. I also attempted to run Umstead 100 again but Preston could not travel with me to be my crew. I made it to Mile 75 before I had to call it a race because of medical reasons. The medical doctor saw the blisters covering my feet and did not a repeat from the previous year. I'm suspicious that I have Raynaud's Disease.

A big accomplishment that has been on my bucket list is to become a RRCA Certified Running Coach! I was able to successfully pass the test and now I'm certified to train you! If you are looking for a running coach to help you achieve your running goals or begin a training program, please let me know! I'd love to help you! I'd also love to help others move again who are dealing with chronic pain, as running has brought so much healing to my body.

I'm excited to be returning this year as a DC Ragnar Ambassador and also, as a ZOOMA Ambassador! Registration is open for both races! 

My discount code for 10% off any ZOOMA race is: AMY2017

This year I’ve been invited to run the Boston Marathon 2017 with the 261 Fearless charity team. To learn more about 261 Fearless: www.261fearless.org  It is one of the featured charities of the Boston Marathon and I’m extremely honored to be running with Kathrine Switzer (founder of 261 Fearless and the first woman to run the Boston Marathon) and the 261 Fearless Boston Marathon charity team members! 261 Fearless is a non profit that is empowering women through running all over the world. There are run clubs, workshops and training groups set up for women that would otherwise, not have access to these resources. 261 Fearless has also partnered with Reebok to provide running shoes to these women. 261 Fearless is changing the lives of these women as they become more bold, more brave, more courageous, more fearless, by allowing 261 Fearless to take them to new places and reach new goals through running!

My fundraising goal is $7,261 and I have two months to meet this goal! I must raise this money in order to run the Boston Marathon on April 17^th!!! It is a gigantic goal and I feel like it is the biggest hill I’ve ever run but I know I can achieve this fundraising goal with your support!  I joined the team because the organization is supporting women around the globe to be FEARLESS through running! Every donation amount is appreciated and tax deductible! Thank you for your support to help me fulfill my dream of running the Boston Marathon! 

Most likely this will be my ONE and ONLY chance to run this amazing race because of my daily battle with chronic Lyme disease will not allow me to run as fast as I wish I could to BQ (Boston Qualify)! Please donate today! Thank You so much for your support and Thank You to those of you who have already donated! You are Awesome! 

https://www.crowdrise.com/261FearlessBoston2017/fundraiser/amyfitzgerald

For local Friends, I'm hosting a few fundraisers! Please save the dates! THANK YOU!

Shop For A Cause at the Athleta Reston Town Center on TUESDAY, MARCH 7th, ALL DAY! RSVP and receive 25% off your purchase! RSVP by calling the store (703) 668-0256 or send me a message/e-mail. You must RSVP and mention that you are shopping for the 261 Fearless fundraiser! A percentage of your shopping total will be donated to 261 Fearless Boston Marathon Charity Team! Phone orders will be taken and parking validation at any RTC parking garage will be offered with purchase! 

Dine Out at Piero's Italian Restaurant on MONDAY, 3/13, 5-9pm, located in the Franklin Farm shopping center (Herndon)! 50% off for military and teachers on Monday's! You must mention you are dining for the 261 Fearless fundraiser! A percentage of each check will be donated to 261 Fearless Boston marathon Charity Team. **There will be raffle prizes at this event!

Glory Days Dining Dollars, Northpoint and FoxMill (Reston) locations, NOW - April 27th! **Save your itemized food/drink receipt and drop off in the receipt container, labeled for 261 Fearless Boston Marathon Charity Team, located at the front of the restaurant or message/e-mail me and I will pick up from you. 10% of every receipt will be donated to 261 Fearless Boston Marathon Charity Team.

We wish you much joy, love and peace for 2017! 

XOXO,

Amy, Preston, Caitlyn, Connor, Kiley and Lucky "pup"

#GivingTuesday 261 Fearless Boston Marathon Charity Team

Hi Everyone! 

I have the BEST news EVER!!! My dream is finally coming true....I'M RUNNING THE BOSTON MARATHON!! I know you are probably wondering how in the world did that happen since I have not ever ran a BQ (and probably will never BQ because of my daily battle with chronic Lyme Disease).

I have even more Awesomesauce news!! I was selected to run on the 261 Fearless Boston Marathon charity team 2017! This awesome non-profit was created by Kathrine Switzer, who was the first woman to run the Boston Marathon! Her bib number was 261 and she registered as a male! During the Boston marathon, the race director figured out she was a woman and physically tried to remove her from the course! She refused to stop running and went on to run 26.2 miles and cross the Boston Marathon finish line...Kathrine Switzer is the first woman to accomplish this incredible feat because she lives her life fearlessly! 

Photo credit

2017 marks the 50th year of Kathrine Switzer's amazing accomplishment, so of course, she is running the Boston Marathon 2017 with the 261 Fearless charity team! I'm so excited to run with an icon and one of my running mentor's! I'm also excited to raise money for the 261 Fearless charity! However, in order for me to run with the 261 Fearless Boston Marathon charity team, I have to successfully meet a GIGANTIC fundraising goal!!!

How much do I need to raise??

    My fundraising goal I must meet in order to run the Boston Marathon: 

$7,261

Click on this secure link to Donate! 

Amy Fitzgerald: 261 Fearless Boston Marathon charity team

*Currently the 261 Fearless Charity Team is in 4th place for the charity who has raised the most money on Giving Tuesday! This amount is the combined fundraising efforts for all (60) 261 Fearless Charity Teammates!

I have made the first donation of $261 but otherwise, my fundraising page is super quiet! 

I know what you are thinking...What is 261 Fearless going to do with my donation? That is a GREAT question!! And in my own words, I will describe more about the great things 261 Fearless charity is doing with the funds they raise! 

261 Fearless is a GLOBAL non-profit organization, touching all corners of the world, and giving hope to women and girls to dream big and live their life fearlessly through running! Team 261 works closely with such organizations like Girls On The Run and organizes workshops and training sessions and group runs in local comminities. Kathrine is changing lives with her organization! I will never forgot that feeling of "I Can Do Anything!" after crossing my first marathon finish line in 2010! Kathrine is inspiring women/girls all over the world, to live a healthy life through running while reaching for the stars and living fearlessly! 

Sometimes all it takes is one person to believe in you in order for you to be fearless and chase your dreams!

Today is a very special day! It's Giving Tuesday, or AKA, a day of GIVING back!! Cyber Monday was yesterday, and if you are like me, I was online shopping until after the midnight hour, trying to knock off the gift list. But today is all about giving back to the community! 

My crowdrise fundraising page is connected to the Crowdrise 261 Fearless team fundraising page. We are reaching for the stars with our fundraising goal and I'm hoping you can please support our team TODAY, right now, at this moment and please donate! No amount is too small! I really appreciate your help and all of your support! Please reach out if you would like more information about the 261 Fearless nonprofit organization or check out the 261 Fearless website to learn about the amazing GOOD, POSITIVE things they are doing in local communities around the world! 

Please fearlessly share, like, tweet, social media the heck out of this post! I WOULD BE SO APPRECIATIVE!! And please, make a donation! THANK YOU SO MUCH!! 
Wishing you a wonderful Giving Tuesday! 

Peace, Love and Happy Running,

Amy

#LymeWarrior

Sweet Sixteen

The problem with grief is that over time it fades into the distance, and then, out of nowhere, it slam dunks you. 

I was running an amazing DC Ragnar Relay race this weekend with my incredible teammates. Such an amazing running weekend, that it distracted me from a significant Anniversary. Not the happy kind but the kind that swallows you up, as you are running your hardest leg and then, slams you to the ground. Literally, I fell onto the ground, letting my tears act as a cover up, over my sweaty face.

My sweet Joshua, passed away in utero at 27 weeks, on September 17, 2000.

You can do the math.....

Yes, it was his SWEET SIXTEEN birthday.

All I could do was be still for a moment and try to remember to breathe, as my mind flash backed to delivering him stillborn and looking at his sweet, beautiful face, as I cradled him in my arms.

I didn't want to be in this special, unique, sad club but now I had officially declared a 2nd time membership, with a 7 week miscarriage, two years earlier.

I pushed through nine miles of monster hills, dedicating the run to Joshua Michael Fitzgerald, guardian angel to my (3) Earth babies.

I told no one on my team about my emotional breakdown during my running leg. But I was in a bad place when I finished. One of my team members picked up on that something wasn't quite right but I wasn't about to spill the beans and ruin the fun for everyone.

I thought I could shake it off, as the day progressed, but my pain was raw and deep. I wanted to find a corner and cry, inside our crowded passenger van but I smiled instead.

Losing a child, no matter what age, is a shocking life experience that changes you and numbs you forever. The world is a little less loving and you begin to realize that each day should be appreciated and not assumed that you will be given the time you never thought twice about.

My baby boy, had Fifths Disease, a very rare condition in pregnancy. The statics read that 1 out of 10,000 pregnant women will be infected with the virus. And all my friends call me their luckiest friend!!

Oh, the irony!

The doctors explained that because I never went to daycare growing up, I was never exposed to Fifths Disease. Hence, I never developed the antibodies for it.

Of course, I was exposed when I was pregnant and the virus crossed the placenta wall, attacking Joshua's red blood cells. My sweet baby boy never had a chance.

I remember the doctor telling me how he couldn't find a heartbeat and wanting to scream "how can this be happening AGAIN?"

I remember wanting to deliver the baby and wanting to wake up from the nightmare and forget about him as soon as possible. 

But it was my wise doctor who began a path of healing for me. He gently counseled me to hold the baby and name the baby and celebrate Joshua at a Memorial Service and bury him at a special place for angel babies. He was suggesting the unimaginable. I wasn't sure I was that strong.

Just like yesterday, when I was on the side of the road, knowing I needed to run but my mind was in a completely different place.

Angel babies,

Blessings, 

In disguise.

Appreciate each day,

Loving gently,

Showing kindness, 

These are the virtues you taught me.

I will never be as strong as you, 

As you fought for each breathe in utero.

I pray you are in a joyful, loving place.

Protecting my Earth babies. 

Guardian Angel.

Sweet baby boy, 

Happy Sweet Sixteen.

Runner's World Cover Search Contest! Last day to VOTE!

It's been so long since I've written. Life has been a whirlwind. There are good things, great things, that are happening in my life. And then there are the difficult obstacles one must face. 

I'm far up North right now. I'm in a cabin that I'm sharing with my parents and three kids. We don't have a TV and limited internet access. To drive into town is about 30 minutes. I have been enjoying long afternoon runs surrounded by nature and solitude. The kids love splashing in the lake when I can successfully detach them from their phones. 

This place called Ely, MN, is a sanctuary of beauty. It takes your breathe away. It is also the place that brought healing to my broken body, 21 summers ago.

It's hard to believe that Lyme disease invaded my body, a lifetime away. A disease that was ignored by Doctors and eventually misdiagnosised as Fibromyalgia. 

I woke up paralyzed that Spring morning at the young age of 24. I felt like as I was dying as each day passed. Inflammation overtook my body. My hips and back felt like I was 85 years old. My eye flared up with iritis. The light was not my friend so I sat in the dark, in my room. I couldn't turn my neck. My inflamed body made driving impossible. And the Doctors said it was in my head. I felt like I was dying.

But at the end of the summer, I found healing in this magical place. With breathtaking views from the cabin, hot sauna's in the evening, and fresh air to breathe. I left Ely, MN, that summer only using my crutches in the morning and at night, instead of relying on them, all day, for mobility. It was fifteen years later, when I was correctly diagnosed with Lyme disease and then two years later, with chronic Lyme disease.

And now I find myself here again, sitting on the dock, soaking up the sun, and fighting fatigue, and a re-occurring Lyme disease infection.

I recently encountered a doctor who was quick to dismiss Lyme disease and painted a picture of someone who complains, and never gets better, advocating for years of antibiotics. I wanted to have a sensible conversation and ask where he got his information from but I had to stay quiet per the request of someone I highly respect. It was not my place to tell the doctor he was misinformed. He actually told me to check my sources when I explained that the Lyme disease blood test has a 50% false negative rate or how late term, undiagnosed Lyme symptoms can cause cognitive problems. But he refused to listen. There is still so much educating and awareness we must do. 

And this is why for the last THREE years, I have entered the Runner's World Cover Seatch Contest. My platform has always been about Lyme disease and how running, my "sweat therapy" has brought healing into my life. I'm not a fast runner but I have trained my body to handle the endurance of running up to 100 miles in under 30 hours. An accomplishment I achieved at Umstead 100 miler 2015 in Raleigh, NC.

I'm a Warrior. I have perservered. And I'll continue to do so each day that I'm given the gift to be able to run.

But I can't fight this battle alone and united, as a community of Lyme Warriors, our voice can be heard! Our stories can be told. My goal is to bring hope and healing to those suffering from Lyme disease. I have entered this contest to be your voice! I want to bring more awareness and education of Lyme disease!

Last year, and this year, I've had the honor to be chosen as a Top 100 semifinalist (out of 1,000 enteries). Today, 8/15, is the last day to vote for me. Copy and past this link to vote. When I can get wifi connected, I'll enter the direct link. 

http://coversearch.runnersworld.com/entry/820/

This will be the last year I can enter this contest as a I have achieved a personal career goal that will make me ineligible next year to enter the Runner's World Cover Search Contest. Going back to those great things that have been happening in my life...in the last year, I've worked dillentigilly to achieve the goal of becoming invited to join the SAG-AFTRA actors union! I'm waiting on my invitation, as I've earned enough SAG vouchers to join, as of August 2016! I'm excited to take my acting career to the next level but sad to leave behind this contest for 2017. 

It would be so amazing if I made it to the Top Ten finalists for the RW Cover Search Contest 2016! But I need your support and your votes, more than ever! Please vote TODAY 8/15 and share this blog post. Your support is so appreciated! Thank You! Keep fighting, Never Give Up and Always Dream Big!

Amy

#LymeWarrior 

Ragnar Relay 101 is going to be Fabulously Fun!

Hi Everyone!

I'm excited to announce I'm hosting my very first DC Ragnar Relay 101 on SATURDAY, 7/16, from 10am to 12pm, at Road Runner Sports in Sterling, VA! Check out the flyer below for the address! 

Do you want to be a Ragnarian? Come see me on Saturday morning to learn what all the Ragnar buzz is about! 

The Ragnar Relay 101 is going to be a Fabulously Fun event with Ragnar gear raffle prizes given away every 30 minutes and the grand prize is a pair of FREE running shoes, compliments of Road Runner Sports! 

Plus RRS will be offering a shopping discount and be serving food and drinks! I'll be there to answer any of your Ragnar Relay questions! 

Kids are welcomed and you don't need to stay for the entire event. 

I hope to see you there! Please share this blog post with your family and friends! Thank You!

The deadline is August 5th to sign up for the DC Ragnar Relay which is being held Sept 16-17! Here is the link: Sign Up for DC Ragnar Relay

Happy Running!

Amy

Enter to WIN a free ZOOMA race entry!

Have you heard about the exciting ZOOMA race that is coming near you? If you love awesome swag, a fabulously fun, super organized race, in a destination location, then you need to check out the ZOOMA race series!

ZOOMA has a race for everyone with distance varying from a 5K, 10K or a Half Marathon! Rally your friends and make it a girls weekend! The ZOOMA race series is coming soon near you! The first ZOOMA race in Annapolis is coming up soon on June 4th! This will be my third time running the ZOOMA Half marathon in Annapolis and I look forward to the challenge of conquering the Annapolis hills and admiring the scenic course!

ZOOMA Annapolis 
Saturday, June 4, 2016 
Location: Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium 
Start Time: 7:00 a.m. 
*SIGN UP TODAY before the price increase on Saturday, May 21st

ZOOMA Cape Cod
Saturday, September 24, 2016 
Location: Sea Crest Beach Hotel, North Falmouth, MA 
Start time: 7:30 a.m.

ZOOMA Florida
Saturday, October 22, 2016 
Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island 

You can WIN a FREE race registration to the ZOOMA destination race of your choice by entering this ZOOMA Contest! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway


The contest begins May 26th and ends May 28th! Good luck! Please share this contest/blog post with your BRFF's ~ Best Running Friends and Family! 

There is also a 10% race registration discount code you can use when you register with your friends! 

I'm signed up to run the Annapolis Half Marathon and hope to see you there! 

Happy Running!

Amy
#ZOOMAambassador

Dryhome's Loudoun Lyme 5k/10k/1k Fun Run and virtual run on May15, 2016

Are you registered for the Loudoun Lyme race at the Brambleton Town Center (22855 Brambleton Plaza, Ashburn, VA 20148) on Sunday, May 15th? You can't miss this amazing race! 

There are many distance options for you to run or walk - 5k/10k or a 1k Fun Run! There is a race for everyone! If you are unable to make it to the race, there is also an option to sign up for a virtual race. The 6th annual Loudoun Lyme race mission is to fight Lyme Disease and to benefit the National Capital Lyme Disease Association!

Click here to REGISTER TODAY! 

*Online registration closes at 1pm on Wednesday, May 11th*

*After May 11th, race registration is available at packet pick up (DryHome Roofing & Siding

45921 Maries Road, #100, Sterling, VA 20166) on Friday, 12-7pm, Saturday, 8am-12pm or on race day from 6am to 7:45am but you are not guaranteed a t-shirt*

Before the race, there will be a warm up at 7:40am and several speakers, including local politicians and an elite Master's runner! 

We are excited to announce that elite, globe trotting, ultra runner, Mike Wardian will be running the 10k and offering words of inspiration prior to the race! I will be speaking briefly about my Lyme disease battle, as a fellow Lyme Warrior and ultrarunner! We hope to see you on May 15th!

The Race Day Activities include: 

• 6am - Race day packet pick up
• 7am - Vendor/Information Fair
• 7:40pm - Warm up/Speakers
• 8am - 10k starts
• 8:10am - 5k starts
• 9:30am - 1k fun run starts
• 9:45am (or immediately following the 1 k Fun Run) - Awards Ceremony with Team and Age Group Awards

There will be beer at the finish line for race participants, one FREE root beer or beer, provided by Lost Rhino Brewing Company! Show your race bib and ID for proof of age (21 for alcoholic beverages) to get your free beverage!

THANK YOU for your support and for helping to take a bite out of Lyme Disease! 

My interview on PBS NewsHour is TONIGHT (5/9)

This morning I had an awesome opportunity to be interviewed by PBS Correspondent John Yang. We met at a local coffee shop, Cafein, located in Chantilly and chatted about the upcoming general election.

I was asked several questions about my thoughts on the candidates and who I might vote for. You will have to tune in TONIGHT (5/9) to hear the interview! It will air at the beginning of PBS NewsHour on your local PBS station. 

For local folks in the DMV area, it will air at 7pm on the WETA channel.

The upcoming Presidential election is unlike any other election that I have had the opportunity to vote in! Please watch PBS NewsHour tonight! Thank you for your support!