Having a friend who runs with me is really important. We maintain a supportive pace, explore new trails, track down free food, and trade clothes. Without her, the road would be much longer and harder and not nearly as much fun!

For my 70th birthday, I celebrated by running 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days. San Francisco-based journalist, Melissa Hung, wrote this wonderful feature for NBC News about my experience.