An unexpected event

In a previous post I mentioned that I thought many of the volunteer roles required specialist training; this was particularly relevant for the VI guide role. That was until I got chatting to Moira, a member of the Strathclyde parkrun core team, parkrun ambassador, prolific runner and all round wonderful person. She suggested I shadow Ruth running with a guide one week then volunteer to guide with her another time. 

I remember quite distinctly the first time I guided with Ruth. The wind was blowing a hoolie that morning; I seriously considered ditching parkrun for the comfort of a warm bed and a long lie. I had almost convinced myself that fallen trees would block every road from Strathaven to Strathclyde park. I knew I was ‘just’ shadowing so I wasn’t really needed that day. I could definitely just stay in bed but I didn’t; I got up, ready and headed out the door. I genuinely do love parkrun but there are some days I question my sanity and that of everyone else who turns up to run when the weather is at it’s very worst.

As with every Saturday, I spent time before setting off chatting to the parkrun pals; we were probably moaning about the weather as we all huddled together in penguin fashion. Sam was guiding Ruth that morning with Katie and I running alongside. We had our run plan and were confident that everything would be fine. As we approached the 1K marker, Katie started to feel and look unwell. Sam is a paramedic so much more useful in a health emergency than I ever could be. Ruth agreed that I could take over the VI guide role so off we went.  I had absolutely no time to be nervous about guiding for the first time. 

Within seconds we were chatting like old friends, putting the world to rights and running like we had been in this partnership for years. Ruth had run a few parkruns by this point so was familiar and quietly confident with the route. She uses a running tether; a small piece of cloth held by the VI runner and guide. The idea is that it gives the VI runner a bit more independence. Ruth was relatively new to using a tether; when she first started running she linked arms with her guide. She told me that learning about the tether had been a pivotal moment for her; that it was the closest she would ever get to running freely. In that moment it dawned on me that Ruth cannot simply just put on her trainers and go for a run; she will always have to rely on someone to run with her. It was the most humbling moment I have ever experienced.

I am happy to report that Katie made a full recovery and completed her 5K with support from Sam.

Ruth and I chatted and laughed so much that before we knew it we were at the finish line. Another parkrun completed for both of us, a new volunteer experience for me and the beginnings of a beautiful friendship. 

If you are interested in being VI guide with Ruth come and have a chat with us. It truly is a rewarding and humbling experience.