Mom’s speed

I briefly mention to a co-worker that my mother was a speed skated, back in her day. From the age of 13 thru 18 she was involved in the sport. I always enjoyed hearing stories about her training days. The 5am, 2 mile daily run in freezing cold Romanian weather. The pathetic skates she had to wear and the interesting pre workout meal that was given, chocolate. I also remember all the medals we had around our apartment and the sense of pride and intrigue I felt. Who was this person? She was my mother but also an infallible, great being. Unfortunately, after my mom moved to New York her medals had to stay behind (can’t sneak out of a Communist country with all your belongings) I found out later that my aunt threw them out, since my mother didn’t want the souvenirs. I can’t tell if she enjoyed that part of her life or if it was just about the challenge. I do know that she almost made it to the Olympics, however, she had an unfortunate accident and badly injured her hip. After that point in her life she went off to college to study geology and moved on. I’m sure that’s where I get my fast genes from and my will to run in the NYC Marathon. (photo of my mom by Fery Deák, a relative and photographer)