I wasn't sure if I could do this....

#running #trailrunning
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[@dtaylor10chuckufarle]

Oh, Kelly - I'm so terribly sorry about your doggo!! Running the race was smart, it helps with grief. I ran a marathon not long after my mom passed and it was very therapeutic. God bless.

[@cribbage]

You are a warrior that keeps going even when life isn't sunshine and roses. Great job in the race, happy that time spent outside helped your mood. Sorry to hear about your pup 😢

[@gregsnider2065]

So sorry about your pupper. You are inspiring and awesome. Thanks for taking us along!

[@sonnywarren]

Sorry for your loss Kelly 😪I like dogs more than most people. Hang in there !

[@MannyWC]

Losing a pet hurts like hell. Feel it and heal as you can. Eat for your puppy. He’d want you to be the healthiest happiest you can be. He is will always be in your heart and will give you signs that he is there beside you.❤

[@Renitent]

Truly sorry for your loss 🤍sending hugs and soft space for you to take the time you need to grieve & feel deeply. Glad you got out and got some sun, and congrats on placing in your race! Thanks for the inspo always ✨

[@Jermeister]

I took my introduction into road running & trail running _super easy_ throughout 2024, and right when I found the sweetspot between gradual, progressive training load and recovery, I strained my knee. Any sort of running ignites the symptom so I've had to stop running. For now. It's encouraging and relieving to hear you're listening to your body and giving your hips the ease and TLC it needs by reducing your race mileage and working with your PT. All while dealing with the loss of a beloved family pet member. I've just lost my job and my access to running (for now), but I'm going to hop on the stationary bike and crank out some Zone 2. Beats lying in bed feeling sorry for myself. 🙏

[@amberbrown8240]

Great job girl!! Love the real life content❤ I am so sorry for your loss. Forever a fan😀

[@Jaxon1776]

Pets are hard to lose. They give us so much and don't ask for much in return. You have a big heart. I'm confident you were the best puppy sister.

[@jeffjackman4888]

So sorry for your loss 🙏 love your channel, love your vibe. ✌️❤️

[@kframe764]

Losing a pet is so hard. We lost 2 dogs in 2 years. Our hearts were broken. Please take care of yourself. You need to eat also.😀

[@karennadherny7615]

So sorry! Pets are part of the family an it is heartbreaking to see them go! Thank you for sharing!

[@alaish360]

I’m sorry for your loss ♥️😢🐾

[@christineandpup]

Kelly, sending you hugs during your journey of healing. 🐾 Congratulations on the finish 🎉

[@kelvisking6745]

Keep going Kelly you rock

[@jodiearrington]

Thank you Kelly. I always love your videos and I'm so sorry for the heart breaking loss of your beloved pet.

[@tntdoug2175]

Condolences on the passing on of your puppy. Remember the happiness and joy of your time together. 😢 . I have lost a cockatiel 🕊 and I was a wreck for over a week. Adopted another one a month later. Couldn't stand it being so quiet in the house. Glad to see you push through your race. Your stronger than you think you are!

[@sallys2423]

The quiet, that's the hardest part.

[@robbinwhaley9378]

Great job on the race!! So sorry about your dog. Praying for peace and comfort.

[@bettsboysadventure3539]

Very sorry for your loss Kelly. Thank you for sharing and wishing you many great memories.

[@johnelliott-b7b]

So sorry to hear of your loss . I have had several pups pass in the last few years and I never will get over it. Hope and pray you can ! Love ya lady hang in there ok.❤

[@gakitten33]

I always love your realness. I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m sure you gave him a wonderful life that was full of love. Keep your head up 💙

[@wildflowersadventures]

Congratulations! Well done. I’m so very sorry for your loss. The pain is truly indescribable. I’m praying for your heart. 🙏🏼💙

[@moniquen1751]

You words at the end made me tear up - I lost my kitty bestie at the beginning of the year and still feeling it. I'm so sorry about your sweet pup. I love the race videos and congrats on placing!

[@AbleHammer]

That’s the hardest part about owning a pet you love soo much! Feel better Kelly! Nice job on the 15.5 miles!

[@martinkingston1498]

So sorry to hear about your loss Kelly. For those of us who have been through the experience, the pain is terrible, but it is part of loving another living being so much. There is something so pure and beautiful about the relationship we have with animals, and they are some of the best friends we will ever have in this crazy old world. The pain does get easier wirh time, but there is no way around it. It has to be felt and healed. Wishing you all the best, and that your future will have as much happiness. ✌️✌️✌️✌️✌️

[@jayl9752]

Losing a pet sucks. It's similar if not harder sometimes than losing a person. They are family! So sorry for your loss. Praying for your peace.

[@susansharp112]

13 years of your puppy being in your life and your family’s is a hard loss yet the memories are great. Congrats on the run( 2nd place female bravo) especially since grieving. Keep the spirit and more blessings coming. You have only just begun on this new adventure. That run was beautiful landscape. Thanks for sharing

[@danimorin6283]

Oh I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending you all the love

[@indral8598]

Congrats for pushing through. The loss of a long-time best friend dog is heartbreaking for sure. Been there. Keep going though! Hey, I am a female trail runner in NWA, would love to go on a run with you sometime!

[@RickLeahigh]

So sorry for your loss Kelly

[@jasonlavere5071]

Great job on the race! We lost our family cat a few months ago. She was 21. It gutted us. I ran my first race in late December and it was snowing at the finish line here in Alabama. I didn't think about a change of clothes after the race and really didn't realize how much I had sweat under all my layers. I went into a bit of shock afterwards and about blacked out. I just didn't get enough fluids I guess over a two hour period. But I got the first race down and now heading to a half marathon this weekend at Lake Guntersville. The temp is supposed to be almost 80 so I'm sure I'll sweat just as much with less clothing 😀 The weather is crazy this year. Keep your head up. You have a beautiful smile 😉 Things will get better!

[@alanwilliams4685]

Kelly, I been watching your videos for some time, and this one really hit home. My wife and i have lost so many pets over the years, and it never gets easier. All we can do is love and care for every minute we have them. God bless! Take care!

[@Elizabeth-pt4bv]

Oh no, so sorry to hear about the loss of your pet. Losing a per is so heartbreaking 💔. Powering through was smart. Congratulations on 2nd place, a beautiful place. You did great despite all that was on your shoulders. Proud of you for being strong.

[@ChrisfromFL]

Great Job after a very a challenging and emotional week, sorry of your loss! I really enjoyed the window showing the Strava map, great addition!

[@charliegirlhikes]

I'm so sorry for your loss of your dog, Kelly! It literally made me cry. I have plans of thru hiking the AT soon and leaving my two 13 year old cats scares me. They are completely healthy, but I fear they would be looking for me everyday and what if something happens!?!? I'm also super sensitive right now and grieving the death of my mother a few months ago so I can't imagine losing something else. Arkansas girl here, hope to run into you one day, but it won't be at a race, lol. I don't run! Hang in there girlie!

[@coryhoffman358]

So sorry to hear about losing your dog. The bond with pets is so special. 😔

[@BecCook]

So sorry for your loss Kelly. Losing a companion is really hard, and it takes time to heal. They are family. Thanks for sharing the video. Love the running content, and congrats on placing! Appreciate you keeping it real too cos life isn’t always high vibes. There is ebb with the flow. ❤

[@robinyoung6547]

It has been 10 years since I lost my dog. She was 14 and the love of my life. Still think of her all the time but now its just the love that is left. Take care of yourself.

[@tblmt]

I am sooo sorry 😢for your loss… Reiki helps a lot with the loss of a loved one. I’d be happy to send you some distance reiki if you like, let me know. Or find a Reiki Practitioner in your area. It is definitely one of the worst pains in the world it took me a year to stop crying when my dog died a few years ago.

[@Daygo448]

So sorry to hear about the loss of your dog. I’ve been there before, and we are on extra innings with our 17 year old Aussie. Prayers for you guys while you deal with the loss, and you are right, we just have to keep moving forward in life.

[@BRIANDRAUGHN-o8x]

Oh no! I’m so sorry for you and your families loss. Your baby will be missed by all whom it touched there hearts. Hang in there. Each day will get better. I by no means am doing any comparison with your tragedy when I mention this but in 2022 I was on vacation and received a call from by vet/ bording place that my 6 year old suddenly passed away. What a shock. Was in Montana when it happened so rushed back to Indiana to bury him and to get my 15 year old dog. Then that same week he took a turn for the worse and had to put him to sleep one week later to the day. I still to this day have a giant hole in my heart that will never be the same. ❤ and ✌️ be with you.

[@kellyhays23]

I am so so sorry. That is so tough.

[@nam_hn]

You said you wasn't sure if you could do that, but you did the race and finished strong despite all the negative emotions. I'm sure this story will inspire many people. So glad you decided to post it.

[@Igodostuff]

We had to put our beagle down about a month ago and my cousins dad just his dog to cancer 2 days ago. I feel your pain. They're the best friends for a reason. No back talking and always right there when you need them.

[@kellyhays23]

They love unconditionally so well. I’m so sorry for your loss

[@brucefarris4734]

So sorry for your loss, Kelly….impressed with your vigor, attitude & perseverance as you’re grieving. No doubt you’ll find joy soon! ✌🏼❤️🙏🏼’s

[@brucefarris4734]

@ …Hey, Kelly✌🏼

[@st1ffee]

My condolences on loosing your dog it broke my heart when i lost mine and i said i wouldnt go throught it again,but ten weeks later i got another dog,hes my world lol.Big hug

[@joesmith98765]

Sorry to hear about Rex. Glad you did the Race And You Did It And Congratulations on 2nd Place , Hope you feel better soon . Hang in there, Spring is coming

[@carolynclark588]

So sorry Kelly about your beloved buddy...the only thing I've found that helps me...living presently and ❤ Feeling all you feel!

[@calliecadencebullock1891]

Sorry for your loss Kelly. Just lost my Chocolate Lab, Ellie, in November. It’s just as much pain when you loose any close relative . Glad to see you are able to push through it and find strength within your passion for the outdoors.

[@americafirst5453]

Sorry about your baby they are family. Congratulations on a great finish to your race 🏁 👏 👍

[@nicsargent9435]

Sorry about your dog. I just lost both of mine within a two month period. Good job still getting out and rocking it. Keep being awesome.

[@stevenagle615]

Congrats on your finish! 🎉

[@conniebelkovicz]

Kelly, I'm so sorry you lost your dear pup. One of the hardest things to go through. I'm going through it now also. I have never grieved more deeply. Be gentle with yourself knowing you will always be heart connected. The love and bond is eternal.

[@kellyhays23]

@@conniebelkovicz prayers for you🙏 it is comforting knowing I’m not alone in this grief!

[@conniebelkovicz]

@@kellyhays23 🙏

[@jamesjustin5095]

Glad your hips are getting better. Feel bad for you losing your precious dog. Stay safe Kelly.

[@staxx7753]

sorry for the loss of your puppy they are special & considered family ,i can most definetly relate & it is very tough & thanks for shareing your 25k i did that race a few years ago & it is a very good race & course jake puts on some good races & congrats on 2nd place female .i know ill definetly be doing hoof it for heafer 20k in petit jean in april ,i love that race very good event . stay strong my friend & hope to maybe run into you sometime at a race or on the trails 🙏🙏🏃‍♀️🏕🌲🌳

[@alantroy9902]

Love your videos. We lost our beloved 10 year old Chesapeake Retriever, Harley in November. As a family we found great solace in adopting a 14 mth old Staffy cross as a buddy for our pug. I hope your pain eases soon.

[@ChadSchuller]

You are an amazing competitor! Sorry for your family's loss.

[@josephbrown-ut9ty]

Its hard when we loose our pets, Sorry for your loss. And you did AWSOM on that race , Good Job Kelly.

[@rosscampbell4884]

I'm so very sorry for your loss. They are far more than just pets.

[@wgrish3619]

I am so sorry for the loss of your pup, Rex. Once you welcome a dog into your life, he'll be with you always!

[@TheArtisticGardener777]

Sorry about your doggo, Kelly😢. Thanks for being real about it. My heart still aches from losing my Lily last spring. God bless❤

[@kevindecoteau3186]

I remember 60ish years ago when my dog named Cindy died at the vet, my life has never felt the same, I loved her, a lot. Loving something is so hard because one day one of us will no longer be here.

[@jjns3991624]

Sorry Kelly, the feelings are a testament to your special bond and a great life you provided.

[@TK-gm4ot]

So sorry for your loss. Hope all is well with your soul by the time you read this. Love ya

[@Kevin-g5b]

Sorry for your loss .

[@MySisterMadeMeRun]

Way to go Kelly!!

[@BernieContreras]

Very sorry about your dog. Congratulations on your race! You did awesome! Good luck with your training for your 100 miler and all of your adventures in 2025.

[@hikerbikerclutz8377]

You're amazing! 🤘💛🤘💛 Very sorry again for the loss .

[@kellyhays23]

Thank you Rob❤

[@djsonfire0001]

I'd be devastated loosing my dog. Kudos to you for pushing forward and finishing the race. Eat something for heavens sake😂😎

[@jimscott2998]

Awesome, great accomplishment, nice to “see” your commitment and using your skills in spite of hardship and heart pain❤️❤️✅

[@cuz129]

I could never eat after a race, I just cramped up and whimpered. You are one tough lady!

[@kellyhays23]

Very hard for me to eat after running too!

[@RollingLifeMedia]

I'm so sorry about your dog. He was very cute. My family loves the outdoors. I loveed camping as a kid. but, I'm in a wheelchair I have cerebral palsy. So, watching your videos is giving me the chance to experience the outdoors and trail running, hiking and camping in a way. Thank you for that. Your videos have been the highlight of my day since I found your channel. God bless you

[@Jack-uy6tc]

Pets are the best ! Always loving and totally non judgmental -

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

... Good job on the race/run ... Anyone having lost a pet know the feeling , keeping the memories , time will heal .... Stay Safe ...

[@mikebehrens4246]

Sorry for your loss 🐶🙏🏻🐶🙏🏻🐶

[@sallys2423]

I can totally relate Kelly. I lost my best cat buddy only seven weeks ago. Some days it hurts so bad and others I'm just numb. Just walking through one day at a time. Prayers and a big hug. Great job on the race, congratulations!

[@kellyhays23]

Prayer for you ❤️

[@RickINFJ]

😥 You could see the sadness in your soul. You did incredible considering what you've been through, and not having much in the tank. You are a force to be reckoned with 9L. You ran it for Rex. 💪 My heart always breaks hardest over a pet. Still praying for you and your family to receive some comfort. 🙏

[@kellyhays23]

Thank you so much Rick

[@chrissyt6959]

I am so sorry about your doggie! Good for you tho just pushing through and doing what you could. :) You are a big inspiration. I wanted to ask because I am about to start by very first backpacking trip. I have been reading, watching and hearing that after long trips like you did recently there can be a period after the trip where emotions and like feeling off and adjusting back to "life" can be difficult. Have you ever found this to be true after all your Thru Hikes/Backpacking you have done?

[@jasonjones5213]

Losing a pet hurts bad.Mine was my hiking partner for 10 years.Great job on the race.

[@lindaleiker8643]

I’m so sorry to hear of Rex’s passing. He may be physically gone but he’ll never be forgotten.❤️‍🩹💔

[@mikewilhelm6951]

Yes, I get how you feel about your dog. Our lab got cancer last year and we lost her in September. I still find myself looking for her when I get home. Not easy to forget. Congrats on the great race finish.

[@anneoconnor3614]

Hugs …. Losing a pet is extremely tough - good for you to show this side of you and congrats on the race

[@charltor6]

Our condolences. You’re going to outlive them, pretty much every single time. The only thing you can do is give them a great life and then try to do the right thing for them when their time comes. We’re in our mid-60’s and we’ve had five dogs - a Sheltie and four Golden Retrievers - as well as a dozen cats, most living long lives. We remember them all fondly but it’s hard when they leave us. Best wishes.

[@bevgipson1959]

Great job, Kelly! Your faith helps you persevere in the tough times.

[@Evergreen...920]

You did an amazing job, especially with a heavy heart. Great message in this video.

[@Theclaw1981]

Congrats KH, you powered thru a difficult situation with the loss of your dog, yet still managed to pull off a second place finish! Do hard things in life…you just did 😊

[@christinashepard8787]

I lost both my 15 yr old kitties this past year on in June and the other in sept. I wanted to post a pix of them but it would t let me…… so I feel the empty pit like you. I hope your kitty will bring you comfort after losing your doggy. On a bright note. You keep showing me how beautiful Arkansas is. I just never knew it. Hang in there sweetie…. Good run in the race

[@kellyhays23]

I’m so sorry for your loss❤

[@jimhenderson387]

Sadly, our doggy buddies really don't live very long. I've been through it at least 3 times and the last one was the hardest. I'm glad you have this new hobby to get your mind off things. Life is hard.

[@aprilfensom6412]

Congratulations on your run.

[@lauraboggs4415]

Give yourself time. Loosing a dear pet is so hard! You did Amazing! Congratulations!🎊. Way to power through it!

[@ElevatingGems]

SO SORRY for your loss. Losing a pet is losing family and it is so painful 🫶🏼

[@CrossKnight]

Awesome job! Inspiring, gonna get up and move around today myself!

[@tandyjenkins7495]

Sorry about your pup, it’s so hard. It was good you ran the race I’m sure it helped. Congratulations for second place.

[@natalyawoop4263]

Great job on the run!

[@mattman_outside]

Awesome job!!

[@ShawnBryan]

Great race Kelly. And so sorry about losing your pup. They are family and the hurt is real. BTDT too many times.

[@salparadise7412]

It’s so tough losing a pet. Much love from my family to yours.

[@lenoredisman3192]

Have fun getting out, Prayer for u and family

[@steveblindlost9424]

🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼 Great job on the run!

[@HeartForHikers]

So sorry about your loss. Thank you for being real on your channel and telling it like it is. Me and my family will be praying for you. May the God of all comfort be with you and your family during this time of loss and heartache. ❤ psalm 147:1-5

[@moruix]

Good job on the race! I didn’t know about this one and I live in Arkansas. Might give it a go