As some of you know from earlier posts, I'm carrying around an abdominal aneurysm the size of a parsnip, likely thanks to my heavy-duty cycling of a decade ago.
I've been off the bike for the past year, to see if the growth of this aneurysm can be attributed to cycling. If no cycling means no growth, then I will be likely off the bike for the foreseeable future. If the aneurysm continues to grow in diameter, than cycling may not be the contributing factor and I can ride again, although some form of surgical intervention becomes more likely, with all its consequences.
So, my CT scan is set for September. I'll hear from the doc later in the month. If the news is "good" (which I interpret as, "well Bill, cycling seems to have had no impact on the growth of your aneurysm"), then I'll be riding around Waterloo Region again, and what a joy that will be.
If the news is "bad," (that is, "Bill, your aneurysm has not grown in size and we attribute that to you not riding"), then I will be off the bike for the foreseeable future. I have already begun checking out e-bikes as an option, because I believe in two-wheeled transport as a significant factor in our future transportation options, and plan to be a part of that, in any way possible.
For complete transparency, I should note that my family sees non-cycling as longevity, for me. So they are happy if I get an e-bike, whatever the doctor says.
I foresee an e-bike future. I'll keep you up to date. Keep your fingers crossed for me.
Bill, you'll be in my prayers. Hope everything turns out for the best and look forward to seeing you cycle around Waterloo Region for a long long time.
Posted by: Andre | July 31, 2012 at 03:32 PM
Best wishes, Bill, whatever the doctors have to say.
Posted by: John Spragge | July 31, 2012 at 09:56 PM
Geez, you know you're an avid cyclist when "Your parsnip aneurysm has continued to grow (despite not cycling)" is good news! =)
I hope somehow you can get the news that your parsnip is going away AND that you can bike!
Posted by: Phil Hiems | August 01, 2012 at 07:52 AM
Best wishes Bill
I just converted my girl friends hybrid norco to a ebike and she loves it
Posted by: Joe Arruda | August 02, 2012 at 02:50 PM
Wishing the best for you, Bill.
In the grand scheme of things, moving to an e-bike will be an opportunity to continue to experience the world from the saddle, and allow you to report from yet again a slightly different perspective.
Things turn out best for those who make the best of how things turn out, so carry on good buddy!
Posted by: AlanM | August 03, 2012 at 10:50 AM