Hey, I am reallly in need of help.  I had sprained my ankle about one month ago.  I continued to run on it as usuall and I did two more races with it until my coach told me I was suspended from Cross Country.  I took two weeks off and I couldnt take it anymore so I ran GMAC's and got first in the JV race with a 23:25.  Not bad for coming back from a two week break and 3 days of practice.  I am now starting to run again and the pain is coming back.  It is the pain that doesn't go away, you know its there, and it gets worse when you try to do a workout or a tempo long run.  So, my question is or shall I say questions and my opinion are:

1. Should I continue to run on it as best as I can and tough it out for one more month until State Finals and come back for track strong.

2. Take my runs easy and do what I can without hurting myself.

3. Stop, and do cycling to try to keep my cardio.

(I am only a Sophomore in Highschool.  All my friends say I should take a break ( but I already did) and stay calm because I have two more years to go. )

If you have any suggestions or comments I would greatly appreciate it.  My team in a way is counting on me and my coach thinks I am getting better, I just don't want to let them down and I have no idea what to do.

Thank you,

Lili