Health-wise, life has been extra challenging for me in recent months. Too much has happened to write about in one blog so you'll have to take my word. But I will say this, prioritizing is at the top of my to-do list and my motto, ‘life is short – live each day to the fullest.’
Have you heard the expression, "Life ain't always beautiful, but it's a beautiful ride?” To me, there are no truer words. I wouldn’t wish my health on anyone, but in an odd way, I’m grateful for all it’s given to me. The detours have been a combination of fear and adventure, with scenery that’s surprisingly breathtaking.
When I was diagnosed with an extremely aggressive form of rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, in 1986 at the age of 21, doctors predicted I’d loose physical abilities in a relatively short period of time and emphasized the need for adaptive equipment due to the loss of my independence. Hearing their words didn’t faze me! After all, I had always been physically strong, athletic and could do anything I set my mind to. However, as the years unfolded, my losses became as real as their predictions and my physical strengths, a mere memory. Being unable to perform some of the simplest tasks, my heart continues to grieve for the person I once called, ‘me.’
In recent years, I’ve had an incredible desire to ride a bicycle and have talked about altering one to meet my physical needs (or at the very least, satisfy my urge with the attempt to find something even if it didn’t work out). In my life before arthritis, I rode my bike everywhere and even carried it in my car. People often said I was born with wheels on my feet.
Expressing my desire and understanding why I chose ‘quality of life’ in this respect, my husband agreed to help me with my quest. Then a few weeks ago, we found a bike!
After giving it extensive thought and repeatedly reviewing the fit to my body, as well as safety issues, it was time for a test ride. Being somewhat nervous since I hadn’t ridden in years, the initial launch was not a pretty sight as I took up the entire road going back and forth in a wobbling fashion. But soon, balance was restored, nerves were calm and I held tight to those infamous words, ‘it’s as easy as riding a bike,’ as I pedaled then coasted, then pedaled again. Dismounting, my body was as limp as a wet noodle. During the ride, I’d awoken parts that had been sleeping for umpteen years.
In the car on the ride home, I kept replaying the excitement from the thrill of the ride! Then I said to my husband, “I haven’t smiled like this in a long time. Let’s go back and buy my bicycle."
What kind of bike you ask? An all out granny-cycle, complete with wide wheels, fenders, coaster brakes, wrap around handlebars, an overly padded wide seat and a basket! And not just any basket, a basket with a matching purse inside to hold smaller items!! Oh yeah – it's the opposite of anything I would ever buy, let alone ride in public!
Yes, there are concerns because of my (lack of) physical abilities and the acceleration of bodily damage, but I’m OK with that. On Mother’s Day, we took our first ever family bike ride. It’s only the third time my son has seen me ride a bike in his 22 years of life. If I’m only able to ride a few times before arthritis reclaims my body, the new memories are worth it!
You're right, life ain't always beautiful, but it's a beautiful ride. That's one of my favorite songs too.
love you so much!
Leave a Comment