Farewell to my right hallux

Like many other parts of my body, I’ve had my right hallux for the past 43 years. It’s been a constant on every walk, run, hike, or activity I’ve done. In elementary, junior high, and high schools, it was a key part of my soccer game. It helped me run fast, score goals, and block for the goalie. It also helped me run fast and letter in track and cross county in high school. 

After high school, it was part of my journey into trail-running and half-marathons. It also got me to the top of Kaieteur in Guyana, South America, which was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve ever had. (Kaieteur is the largest single drop waterfall in the world).

Later in life, it helped me walk down the aisle to marry Eric and then carried me on our countless adventures. But like Geoffrey Chaucer and Capt. Jean-Luc Picard said, “All good things must come to an end.”

So, it’s time to say goodbye to you, my right hallux. You’ve been a “great toe.” You were there through the highs and lows of my life; the good, bad, and everything in between. I was planning to have you here for the rest of my life, but a Giant Cell tumor also thought you were great and started growing on you (a Giant Cell tumor is a rare, aggressive, and benign bone tumor). 

Unfortunately, to get rid of it, I also have to say goodbye to you. So, good-bye 😦 I’m going to miss you, especially when I’m walking or wearing sandals. You’ve been the best big toe anyone could ever ask for, and my life won’t be the same without you.