Fast Women: Taking some time off
The worst week of my life
I wish more than anything that this was like any other week and I could just relay the latest news in women’s distance running. But on Wednesday, my husband, Parker Morse, suffered an undetermined cardiac event, for unknown reasons. And he passed away early this morning, a few weeks after his 52nd birthday. (Which sounds old until you get there.)
I have a lot more to say about him, and I think it will be therapeutic to write a little about our story as it relates to running. But I need more sleep and to be in slightly less shock to do a decent job. And I’ve spent my Sunday fielding calls from the organ donation team, hospice, and the hospital, approving plans for his body, and waiting for word that he is officially gone.
None of the work I’ve put into building Fast Women over the past 7+ years would have been possible without him. And he was the one who came up with the name, back in 2000, when I started the original website.
I am going to be stepping back from Fast Women as I figure out what life looks like for me and our two children going forward. I might still participate here and there on social media, but for now, I am out of the office. I truly hope I can find a way to keep doing this kind of work, but I will also have to be practical.
As word of Parker’s situation has started to spread, several people have reached out with offers of assistance. I haven’t had time to respond, but I am so appreciative, and once I figure out how people can help, I will let you know. I appreciate everyone’s patience. If any of you knew him personally and have memories or photos to share, my sister is collecting them at courtneywade@gmail.com.
I wish I could help you start off your Monday in a more uplifting manner, but if nothing else, let this be a reminder to hold your loved ones close and make sure they know you love them and appreciate them. I wish Parker could see the outpouring of love and support he’s had this past week.
Alison
We are all here for you and your girls, now and forever. As you move through this nightmare, know that you are supported near and far. Parker will be admired and remembered by so many in the running industry and beyond. Take all the time you need. We'll be here. Sending love and comfort. <3
Alison, you don't know me, but you wrote about my daughter, Bridget Blum, after her sister (my other daughter) died after her battle with Glioblastoma. Bridget is a beautiful runner and she qualified for OTQ this year while her sister was battling her cancer and Bridget's husband was also battling a stroke and brain bleed. You were so compassionate in your writing and were able to capture Bridget's humanity and love for her sister above all else. I hope you know that your writing touches so many people who don't respond to you, but look forward to reading your kind, compassionate and thoughtful prose about women. I hope you will return with your story when you are ready. Your audience will be here. Personally, I cannot understand what you are going through, but I understand loss and love. Please know that love can grow bigger as time goes on and that is the beauty of the power of love. You will be broken, but the broken piece will keep your husband with you.