In my last post I was saying how things have changed quite dramatically for me. There would be no going back to certain bits of my life, like long walks, long cycle rides and going to the gym. I took comfort from the fact that I had actually had a time in my life where I was well enough to do them and enjoy them. But those days were gone. There was no going back to them, but I had been there, seen it and done it!
However, since that post, I have been feeling better and started to feel a bit differently. I had some weights in the garage and tried lifting them. That sowed the seed! Two weeks ago I renewed my membership at the gym and I have now been there three times. This photo is of me there today.
Before you all start making comments about being careful, I have been! I cleared it with the oncologist first and he was more than happy that I do it. I have also been very careful about what I am doing. It is worth pointing out that the weights I am lifting are much lighter than what Libby is lifting – I have to be very careful in this regard as I don’t want her to start thinking that I am well enough to do the housework etc!
Being a bloke, I was very self-conscious at the start, lifting weights that are way below everyone else, but I quickly got rid of that feeling because I knew there was no alternative. What really helped, though, was the number of people who know about my circumstances and come up to me to say how amazing I am to be back at the gym and how they are astonished at how well I look! It is so inspiring when virtual strangers encourage you like that!
I had originally toyed with the idea of calling this post Gym’ll Fix It! but decided against it for obvious reasons. I am certain that the exercise is going to help me and is going to be a substantial element in my cure, just as I am certain that my physical strength before the cancer hit me was a major factor in my survival. I am going to keep fighting this illness and I am determined that I am going to win! If I can inspire others with my journey, then even better!
Just as people who see me are amazed at my condition as I approach the midway point of my chemo, I too am amazed! I am absolutely astonished in fact! The thing is that gym won’t fix it. Yes, it will play a large part in my healing, just as the chemo is playing a large part. But there is someone else involved, and that is my Lord, Jesus Christ.
In Ephesians 6:10, Paul says
One Final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power
That is the thing to remember. I can go to the gym. I can get strong again. People can come to me and say that I am amazing because of what I am doing. They can tell me that I am an inspiration. But I am not the one who is making me strong – God is! I am not the one who is amazing – God is! I might be an inspiration to others – but it is only because God is an inspiration to me!
Hi Robert It has been really great to hear how well you are doing and how you are moving forward through ‘Some going back ‘ love to you and Libby from us. Keep inspiring through your life and Love for Jesus. ❤
Awesome Robert, might get Colin back at the gym now
Absolutely Brilliant Robert great to see you back, by the grace of God and prayer you will get through this you are a winner keep it up my true friend my inspiration