I’ve always been driven by a passion for staying active and embracing new challenges. From enjoying sports in school, playing squash and golf in early adulthood, to finding a deep connection with cycling to bond with my son in my 30s and beyond, activity has been my lifeline. Even now, at 76, I still race and am immensely proud of having completed the Land’s End to John O’ Groats challenge with friends.
Retirement has only added new dimensions to my life: I’m the lawn bowls champion in my area, have taken up ballroom dancing with my wife, and on good weather days, you can find me flying model aircraft with my pals.
My journey has been filled with excitement and unexpected health hurdles that tested my resilience.
The Battle with Gout: My first encounter with gout came as a shock in my mid-50s, right after a cycling awards evening. Despite only drinking soft drinks, I woke up the next day with a painfully swollen big toe, a sight that stopped me dead in my tracks. It was quickly and easily diagnosed as gout, a condition where uric acid crystals accumulate in a joint, leading to inflammation and intense pain.
Over the years, multiple attacks followed, each one a frustrating setback. Finding the right treatment was a battle in itself, but with perseverance, I discovered what works best for me.
While I’ve learned to live without frequent flares, when one does strike, I am forced to rest, unable to walk easily until the pain and swelling pass. It’s a harsh reminder of my body’s limits, yet I’ve never let it break my spirit.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica: In September 2023, after an especially grueling bike race, I woke up to a nightmare. Overnight, I went from being an athlete to struggling with basic tasks due to severe pain. Diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica, an inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, primarily in the
shoulders, neck, and hips.
I started on steroids, which, over a few months started to alleviate the symptoms. The relief was immense, yet the journey was far from over. I’ve been gradually reducing the dosage and have my sights set on being medication-free for this, by summer 2025. The experience was humbling, teaching
me the true value of health and the strength of the human spirit.
Overcoming Challenges: Despite these significant health setbacks, I’ve refused to let them define my life. With the right medical help and a positive attitude, I’ve managed my conditions and continued doing what I love. My determination to keep racing my bike, dance with my wife, and enjoy my hobbies well into my 80s remains
unwavering. Every challenge faced has only fueled my resolve to keep moving forward.
My story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of staying active, no matter the obstacles. With proper care and determination, we can all overcome challenges and live fulfilling lives. Life’s hurdles are inevitable, but it’s our response to them that shapes our journey.
If you have similar experiences or are struggling with health issues, share your story in the comments. Let’s support each other in leading active and healthy lives!
