Recently, I was introduced to my mortality. Welcome to my world.
As you know, I have been spouting off about all kinds of healthy facts and anecdotal comments to make the quality of your life as best as it can be. For the last few years, you have read my thoughts – maybe ad nauseam. I have talked about the amazing interactions between the gut, the mouth, and the rest of the body. Our nutrition, our lifestyle, and how we deal with our environment all play critical roles in our journey for well-being.
My Story
Most of you have heard my story. I came back from a stroke at the age of 59, but I didn’t learn about ancestral nutrition and lifestyle until I was 66. Starting at the age of 66, I personally incorporated this healthy way of living 100%. Now, I am 71 years old. Until two weeks ago, I exclaimed to anyone who would listen that I was feeling the healthiest I have ever felt – plenty of energy, curiosity, and creativity. My blood work, blood pressure, and weight were impressively improving from my age of 66 until a few weeks ago. However, a couple of weeks ago something appeared to change abruptly. My world was turned upside-down. A life can be altered in an instant.
My Mortality
Two weeks ago, I was diagnosed with a malignancy that brought me to the reality of my mortality. Interestingly, my oncologist told me that I had been doing so well until now because my ancestral diet and lifestyle most likely created an ideal environment for a strong immune system. In fact, my current blood chemistries and other blood work still represented a relatively strong immune system. However, the once-hidden and previously-undiagnosed cancer within my bone marrow has started to manifest symptoms.
Moving forward, I will continue to pursue my healthy lifestyle to help heal my body. I will do everything I can to maintain my quality of life and dignity until the end, whenever that might be.
Mark Sisson is quoted as saying, “Live long; Drop dead!” I completely subscribe to Mark’s way of thinking. Quality of life is everything! I will continue to write, perform research, and be a spokesperson for the causes and cures of chronic diseases.
I Am Blessed
With all this unfolding, I believe I am truly blessed. Starting with my gut, my game plan is to continue to enhance my strong immune system.
However, knowing the reality of my mortality provides me time to set things straight. It allows me to say “goodbye” to people who have influenced my life. It gives me the opportunity to make amends. I can prepare my family for what will happen, and I can take care of the legal and material necessities that must be put in order. Too often a person dies with many loose ends and unexpressed emotional feelings. Not me! I will clear my plate and dive into my bucket list.
In November 2016, I wrote a blog titled, My Legacy. How prescient was that?
For all who are reading this, I want to thank you. I also want to tell you that I am honored that you find my writings worthy of your time. Keep reading my blogs; I will stay active. My promise is to make you proud.