Linda Gagnon, R.N., Mother, Triathlete Linda  Gagnon recently wrote a story about her desire to win a spot to compete in the Kona  Ironman championship. Her story reflects the strength, courage and motivation she has to, one day, do Kona. Linda  has been  at Kona the last four years in the medical tent. During her volunteer  work, she has had one on one experience of watching and helping racers that have fulfilled their dream. Linda has been there for many racers as a back up in the event they need medical attention. Linda  has the power to declare the race is over for those that are not medically  able to continue. She also has had the power to give the racer the last  bit of encouragement and mental support to get them across the finish line. She's been the medical angel that has been there to help those  that were not able to finish the race. Linda  has truly been an angel to many of us that train with her and/or have walked, fallen or been saved by her. Here's Linda 's  story: October  6, 2001 .  Rows of cots filled with athletes, IV bags hanging from ropes strung above each cot. The athletes, covered in their own sweat and body fluids, were crying and moaning in pain. The sounds of retching and vomiting echoed under the canopy. Doctors and Nurses, including  myself, all volunteering to care for these athletes.  Most of these competitors lay on their cots, tightly gripping the finisher medal around their neck.   I had been a veteran of the shorter triathlons, but hadn't yet entertained the thought of an IRONMAN. But the mystique was slowly creeping into  my soul as I continued to start IV's and massage sore cramping legs.   What is it that brings these athletes to do this, what does it take to be an IRONMAN? Later that night, I squeezed through the crowds to the finish line.   It was near midnight and there  was still a sea of spectators. Red, White, and Blue waved strong  and proud, in light of our recent event (i.e. 911).  Competitors  were still making their way down Alii Drive .  Something magical came over me as I watched the faces of each individual moving closer to the finish, I could hear the announcer say We have another  winner, You are an IRONMAN! and I was overwhelmed by feeling when they crossed that finish line.  I knew at that moment.  I too had to be an IRONMAN. I have gone back each year to share in the IRONMAN experience. My  desire increases every time I hear those words.  I continue to  train and race.  I have completed two half IRONMAN races and aspire to do a full.  I am mentally and physically ready for the ultimate challenge. If you want to email Linda , click here

   

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