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| The Marathon Des Sables
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In April 2005, out of 777 runners, Aran crossed the finish line in 373rd place, a major accomplishment for a first time participant. Over the 245 kilometres of the race, the Doc Trotter medical team treated 3,146 cases including 2,567 for foot problems. They used 5 kilometres of elastoplast, 125 litres of disinfectant, and handed out 5,300 painkillers and 1,700 anti-inflammatories.
Aran says that there were moments when he did not think he would make it. His feet were blistered and painful and every fold of his body was packed with sand. One night, alone in the dark, Aran recalls sitting down for a moment to rest. He thought about what he was doing and why, he was running the marathon to bring about awareness of hemochromatosis and to raise money for the Iron Disorders Institute. He took out a copy of the emails that had come from friends, families, co-workers and hemochromatosis patients all over the globe. "These messages helped me tremendously" Aran told a reporter, after completing the race.
Aran reached his goals. His run got the attention of people all around the globe who donated generously and it inspired three men with hemochromatosis to not give up, to be proactive with their health. One of these men had given up hope of living.
The diseases associated with hemochromatosis, are heart attack, diabetes, arthritis, cirrhosis, impotence, infertility, depression and some cancers. These can be prevented, if the disorder is detected and treatment begins in the early stages. Aran Gordon is an example of how detection and treatment can lead to good health.
At the board meeting following the race, Aran announced to his fellow board members that he is going to "DO IT AGAIN!". He prepares now for the 2006 Marathon Des Sables and invites you to show your support once again.
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