Cancer, Stroke, Cardiac Issues, And A Disability Are Tough
What Am I Doing About It? Giving Up? Like Hell, I Ain't!
Does this scare you? It shouldn't. Does it say you're too old? It shouldn't. Does it tell you you're disabled? It shouldn't. Does it say you're too fat? It shouldn't. It says quite the reverse. However, I get it. Let me explain.
Four years ago, I weighed 16 stone 3 lbs. When I returned to the UK over two years ago, I weighed 14 stone 9 lbs. After significant heart issues and stents being fitted last September, I started to attend "Cardiac Therapy" as directed by my Doctor, starting in my local hospital and then at a community gym in Nantwich. "Cardiac Therapy" is circuit training for patients recovering from heart issues and strokes. As I did well and completed the course, I was offered a 3-month pass for £29 at the Crewe Lifestyle gym. When I started the three months in Crewe, I weighed 13 stones, 8 lbs. As I come to my final week, I now weigh 12 stones 12 lbs.
Although my nutrition had changed after the heart issues, I kicked up a gear six months ago when I started at the Crewe gym. The same goes for consistent cardio and daily steps. I began to get a little more serious.
It was time for the next step. I needed more guidance and someone experienced, someone who knew his way around a gym. So, I joined Coach Kelvin Hinde at Peak Physique. My nutrition plan was revamped, and I was taught the correct and safe way to work in the gym. Three months into my "apprenticeship" in the gym, I felt great and worked hard—at least for someone 65.
Then, as 2024 arrived, so did cancer in January and a stroke in February. Despite significant challenges, including gaining 20 pounds due to the hormone shots and stroke, my radiotherapy starts at the end of March, and my recovery from the stroke is going well. I couldn't walk four weeks ago but walked over 10,000 steps yesterday. It's not easy, and my walking stick doesn't help much. However, as my physio and doctors have given me the all-clear to return to the gym, I am anxious to prepare.
Does this scare you? It shouldn't. Does it say you're too old? It shouldn't. Does it tell you you're disabled? It shouldn't. Does it say you're too fat? It shouldn't. It says quite the reverse. However, I get it. Let me explain.
The first time I walked into the gym, I felt out of place. However, I quickly learned that almost everyone there felt the same way. Many long-term members were more than happy to make friends and give me pointers. The gym owners and coaches likewise always went the extra mile. After a week or so, I started to feel comfortable and grateful I had faked it til I made it. It was one of the best decisions I ever made. According to my Stroke Consultant, attending the gym for the prior three months had significantly benefited my survival and recovery. My mental health and improved physical condition had been life-savers.
And so, does moving your ass scare you? Does moving your ass at your age, with your disease or your disability scare you? Talk to your medical professional and get moving; no matter how you move, move!
Check out my full story in April when my blog and website, www.thesteveapproach.com, go live.
Until then, Do More. Live more.
© Stephen G. Arrowsmith 2024
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