June 23 from Betty

Hi everyone,

Here's an update on our hero athlete! We spent yesterday at the track where Randel ran the 1500 in 8 minutes and 8 seconds! Pretty good time for a bum leg and the hemoglobin issues he's had this year. His time was good for 5th place in his age category. He said his leg didn't hurt too much as he ran. Immediately after the race he had to throw the shot put. He got 8th in that event and the distance was around 30 feet. It's in meters so we'll convert it and send it later. His pulled hamstring made it hard to get the lift he needs from his right leg to throw. But as was stated at the opening ceremonies every athlete here is a champion! And we supporters couldn't agree more when we personally know the obstacles overcome to be here! Brett, Elise, and Cherise were with us all day so Randel had one of the biggest fan clubs! We cheered loudly and took lots of pictures. Hopefully we can post some soon. He had to miss the 400 as it was at the same time as the shot. This afternoon he'll do the 800.
Being at the games is unbelievable. As I looked around the crowd standing at the track yesterday I saw jackets that said Japan, China, Germany. UK, Australia, South Africa, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Italy, Hungary, Bulgaria, Iran, India, and on and on. Politics are put aside and everyone is celebrating the second chance at life given through transplantation. We cheer for all the athletes regardless of their country and it's touching to see people helping and congratulating each other. Great experience!!
Last evening we were all invited to Pia and Jan's home for a feast! They are experts at hospitality and we were treated like royalty! The table was beautifully decorated with many candles and the food was unique and delicious. Dessert was a midsummer's cake covered in whipped cream and strawberries. We ate that around the coffee table overlooking the beautiful view of the sea. But the best part was the conversation and connecting! Randel and I said our good-byes at the end of the evening. Such dear people to us! The kids are still there this morning but will join us for the day soon.
I learned this morning that the World Transplant Games website has quite a bit of coverage of the games if you are interested. I will check it out and send the link soon as well as a few pictures.
Tonight is the closing ceremony and a midsummers festival.

Love to all,

Betty