This time, four years ago. I was in the midst of C25k, somewhere around Week 6 I think, when I realised that I had truly discovered something remarkable and profound.
This morning’s 12.6k gentle run was one of the best runs I have had in the following four years. A truly life affirming and glorious experience. I need to learn to be satisfied with running slowly, forgetting pace, time and distance. Yeah, I know I am telling those who read my responses the same thing all the time, because I know it makes sense, but I am not very good at following my own good counsel…...so for once I did it. The watch was worn but not consulted a single time until the run was completed.
The first 1.5k was in the company of Madame da Truffe, before she headed out across the fields on her 5k route and I continued my road route up Posbury Hill, maintaining the gentle pace that we had started off with.The Mid Devon landscape was a stunning patchwork of greens and browns, under a blue sky dappled with lazy clouds, as I plodded contentedly up the hill, which is the cover image on my profile page. Yes, I was still working quite hard, but scaled back from my usual rush, with the heart rate raised just enough to sharpen all the senses, I was much more relaxed and truly in my element. Drinking in these landscapes, in a way that is so different from walking through them, is one of the joys that running has given to me, for which I will be eternally grateful.
Although I frequently respond on this forum, my posts are a greater rarity, because I only want to put stuff up there if I feel I have something to say…….that is why I have a great aversion to Facebook…….I have prevaricated about this post, whether it is even appropriate on the C25k forum, but have concluded that it can serve a useful purpose and that it will be received by most in the spirit in which it is written.
Running has made me fitter than ever in my 61 years. My heart is strong, circulation is good and my mental state is stable and positive…...all the things I extol as the benefits of learning to run, along with statistically reducing the risk of so many conditions associated with inactivity. Running does not, however, make you immune to critical illness. On Friday I received the results of a biopsy, which confirms that I have locally advanced prostate cancer.
I have been living with this as a likelihood for a couple of months now, reading and researching about the condition and treatments. Confirmation at least means that a timetable of sorts can be worked out and while there are many unknowns on the horizon, we can begin to plan for the changes that are inevitably up ahead.
So this 10k runner is faced with an Ultra with extra hurdles, maybe lasting up to four years of treatment. As someone who, somewhat simplistically, believes that we are in essence just a bunch of chemicals, the idea of taking drugs and radioactivity into my body just to upset the finely tuned balance, is pretty hard to take. But as my run this morning accentuated, I love life and will subject myself, with full confidence in the wonders of modern medical science, to whatever it takes.
Running has prepared me for this. Had I been overweight, unfit, with a dodgy heart or circulation and under medication for other conditions, then I was told that I would not have been able to be offered all of the options open to me. Mentally I have become stronger, or at least more aware of my own mental strength, simply by the bloody minded effort required to hit running targets. The positivity, which blossomed in me four years ago (no coincidence!!), means that I will only worry about the things I can change and as I have to face them, not allowing myself to fret about situations that may never arise. I have no idea how the treatments will affect me and whether I will be able to continue to do the physical work that I do, which of course may have serious financial repercussions for a self employed man who receives no sick pay and whose private insurances are somewhat laughable, when you read the small print……...but until I start the treatment, I won’t know……..a bit like moving on a week in C25k for many………..suck it and see, then you can assess the situation and make a plan to extricate yourself.
Thanks to this forum I feel I can put these thoughts into words and get them out of my system. I am in the best place I can be in my head and with support around me. I am lucky.
The final thing I want to pass on are the symptoms of prostate cancer. This is for all the blokes, but also for the ladies to be aware of, for the men in their lives. It is incredibly common and can be a killer but many men die with it (not of it) without ever presenting themselves to their GPs. It rarely strikes men under 50. The commonest symptoms are an increased frequency in urination, an urgency to do so and the feeling that the bladder is not completely empty afterwards. If you exhibit these symptoms, get to your GP early. I delayed, and while my bones are thankfully free of cancer, it has spread beyond my prostate. Don’t fear the diagnosis, it is your lifeline.
This morning I was coming to terms with the fact that my running pace, duration and distance are likely to be restricted for a while, if not temporarily halted, but I shall continue to contribute to this forum, until I feel like a total fraud. Looking to the future, I see this lone runner training for a charity half marathon, at least and after that…...well, I will assess the situation when I get there and formulate a cunning plan.
Keep running, keep smiling……..it works for me!
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IannodaTruffe
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Of course this is an appropriate space to share your run and the life that surrounds it. I and many others I am sure, have taken the help and support that you have selflessly offered and have benefitted from it. Yes you have a fight ahead but it is a winnable fight and no doubt your health and fitness will assist in your treatment and in your response to it. So keep running, keep smiling and pleas,e keep posting. We are running alongside you and quietly cheering you on. 'Come on Iannoda, come onnn!'
I'm so sorry to read this. I was both shocked by your news and humbled by your approach to it - as thoughtful, dignified, pragmatic and positive as every other post you make. If anyone has the strength and courage to win this battle, it's you. We are all thinking of you. Keep running, keep smiling, keep fighting - and keep posting!
IT, thank you for your very personal post. I am honoured to be a member of a forum where many of us feel we are able to share our stories, open our hearts and seek support.
A delightful run, i was with you all the way. And then.....your health news which I am so sorry to hear about. However, I will stay with you on this your health journey all the way too if you allow us to do so.
You are a strong 61 yr old, your doctors know what they are saying when they tell you so. I speak from family experience on this, a very different diagnosis but two equally strong men.
As you have been told then, this opens up more options for treatment which is a good thing for you and your family.
I wish you well on your journey. Please keep posting. Run if you can, when you can, how you can, for as far as you can and as far as you feel.
Running or resting, we remain your running family throughout .
I am so sorry to hear! Thank ypu for sharing your story with us. I will be thinking of you during this time. And another thanks for all the inspirational advice and comments!
That is an awful shock. I wish you every success with your medical plan and treatment. Please keep posting your words of wisdom and offering the support and giving confidence to so many whom would have given up the C25K challenge if not for this Forum and your great contribution. I too would have given up. This Forum is a fantastic resource and the atmosphere is one of inclusion, sage advice, realistic advice and above all a friendly warm and welcoming place to visit. Thank you and everyone who visits and posts for helping make this Forum what it is. I wish you the very best of health and happiness. You'll fight this.
Well written, I enjoyed sharing your run then was hit by the bombshell of your diagnosis. You are fit, strong and in good physical and mental condition to take on whichever treatments are discussed and agreed with you. Please keep posting, we are with you x
Your mental strength as well as your fitness will help you through the tough times. Keep posting, you will never be a fraud and we on the forum will hopefully give something back.
A beautiful description of your run, then the bombshell news. Your analysis is spot-on : running gives us the mental strength to cope on a day-to-day basis, and gives us the best possible health to fight when things like this come to test us. Don't stop posting here, there is no reason you should ever feel like a fraud. Once a runner, always a runner. I like your idea of a charity HM. Maybe we could make a virtual run out of it on the same day that you run, so that we could participate wherever we are, too. Keep posting, keep positive.
5k, 10k, HM, M.... everyone could run and we could tally up the forum total; maybe all pay a small amount for participating to put into Iannoda's fundraising. Worth thinking about.
I think this is a brilliant idea - everyone can run the distance they feel is appropriate so that wherever you are in the programme, you can take part.
I wish you the best of luck dealing with this - you sound strong and positive which surely will make a difference and running is an amazing thing to have gained in your life to help too. Thank you sharing the symptoms I hope other men can be as brave as you in seeking help and facing it head on.
Thank you for the share and I wish you all the best. I don't know exactly what your about to go through but I do know that what we have learnt over the last four years helps us to cope better I think. The body has amazing powers and coming from a strong position gives any treatment a great start and a fighting chance. We are all rooting for you and big hugs to MadameTruffe
Sending you big hugs, what a shock to read of your diagnosis, i spotted your post and honed in on it because i always like to read what you have to say and your positive approach, but i wasn't expecting that. I admire your attitude and strength, and like you say, you are in the best physical and mental condition to face this head on. Don't be a stranger , you are so well thought of here.All the best, keep running and smiling love Ali xxx
I always admire your running achievements and your wise words on the forum, you are a true runner. It sounds like you have great fitness and mental attitude for this next challenge. We will all run or walk with you on this journey so do stay with us on the forum. Keep running when you can and accept some rest when it is needed. You can win this race too.
What a bummer. But science is amazing, trust the programme, I often think of your words when I run and I try to keep running, keep smiling.
Your posts are always wise, encouraging and very motivating. You are one of the many people who inspire me on this forum and I have yet to read a post from you which I disagree with. Your approach to this new challenge reflects your wisdom and pragmatism and I hope that your sensible attitude to life will help you through this difficult time.
Please be aware that we are all here for you and will help as much as we can. You may not be able to run much in the near future but you will always be a runner and this runner's forum will always be here for you. Good luck!👍
What can one say but keep the faith brother runner I am only six years younger than you but your post is a timely reminder to always see the GP when unusual symptoms manifest themselves.
Aw I'm so humbled by your pragmatic approach to a situation that many of us face. Well done for becoming a runner - I am one of many on this forum who value your comments when we have done a run. I will be trying W6R2 again tomorrow after a hiccup on Friday- should have ran today but life has got on the way. My little sister came to visit and is recovering from her third major op to remove the BIG C - she is so brave and is only 51. All I can say is trust the doctors - the Christie have been fabulous for her. Keep running and thank you again for sharing such a private moment 🏃🏼♀️
I am so sorry to hear this IT. Please always feel free to share here. You've been a well of wise words to me on many occasions over the years. Thank goodness for running, I am so glad that it is giving you some much needed mental clarity in a very difficult time, as well as giving you a fit body that allows for more treatment options. Please take good care, and long may you run.
So sorry to hear this Tim, and thank you for trusting us enough here to share this . I have always looked up to you as " The Godfather " of this forum. You offer brilliant advice , youre never afraid to call a spade a shovel when necessary, and have been so supportive over the years .
I wish you all the very best with your treatment. You are in all our thoughts . Please feel free to share/vent/ shout whenever you feel you have to .
Thank you so much for your beautiful and heartfelt post...you have helped so many of us on our running journeys with your wise words.... and even now it is a testament to you that you continue to be an inspiration with your positive attitude and stoicism. Wishing you everything you need for a positive outcome. X
You demonstrate an exceptional wisdom. A physical strength and a mental strength. Both are necessary to get you through what's ahead. I greatly value your trustworthy advice on this forum, and will look out for your updates. I wish you well for your treatment and send encouragement.
At 70 years of age, I don't know what I could say to you that would be of any benefit to you - and these days I am coming across your situation amongst my friends more and more. And of course I know that one day , I will also get a tap on the shoulder. I can only say that I have come to realise that all I can do is to learn from all of these things as I encounter them. And I believe that I have. I have learnt that we worry too much about the small things of life - we procrastinate and put things off - we try to live other's lives, whether they be our childrens or our loved ones - we refuse to face reality- we refuse to face the future - we refuse to live in the moment.
I wish you all the best Tim? or IonnodaTruffe (as I know you) - I hope that your physical and mental fitness support and carry you and I am sure that you have learned many things along the way also. Please stay with us here - I also don't contribute much these days but I am still quietly here
Lovely post and so sorry to hear your news. Your posts have helped get me almost to graduation. Please keep posting. All our thoughts will be with you.
Truly sorry to hear your news but very pleased you have let us know. That in itself is a sign of strength. As you say, physically and mentally you are starting this battle from a very strong point which can only be good. Hang on to that run and let it help you through down times. Looking forward to hearing about that HM.
IannodaTruffe . Well what can I say! Except so so sorry to read your post. Of course it was a brilliant post so beautifully written and then wham!
You are an excellent writer and your description of the natural beauty that surrounds us all (which we seem to be oblivious to us as our lives are so busy) is sublime.
Your honesty about your situation is so humbling .
I hope you will not be offended if I remember you in my prayers for a speedy recovery and a positive outcome.
In the meantime IannodaTruffe keep strong and happy running😊😔X and please keep posting😀😀
Ianoda, it's good to read about your run.. you're always an inspiration and help to us on here, but,sorry to read about your health problem Tim. I've been having a PSA check for prostate cancer annually for some years as part of routine health checks, were you not being checked on this? I guess some are unlucky, even having the test I still never count my chickens, but then, I can be a worrier! I hope you get it sorted and recover well to carry on running soon, stay strong! Oh! and as you would say, keep running keep smiling!😊
Well worth a read. Any screening is a matter for informed decision-making, not assuming that because a test exists it is a good idea to have it. Which does not of course mean that it might not be exactly the right decision for you as an individual to have an annual PSA check.
Thought it may have been something read off the net..Well, it's what my doctor 'a professional' advised, so I'll go with that.. it's not for me to question a doctor wether the test doe's or doesn't work..
read through tear blurred eyes cancer is a bastard ... have know so many people both family and friends that it has affected ... it was such a brave personal note to post, keep strong run strong we will all be with you along this journey
Tim, shocked and so sorry to hear of your diagnosis.
You are one of the runners whose advice and comments I value most highly on this forum. You have a great positive outlook and this with your physical strength will no doubt help you through your treatment.
Big hug to you and Madame da Truffe and keep posting as we all run together on here. xxx
Thank you for trusting us enough with this very personal news. I was just saying in a little Facebook running group I'm in with a few people from here, how amazing this forum is for all sorts of stuff, not just running related tales. Like others, I look for your comments, you are always thoughtful and wise, and if I remember correctly one of the first to reply to me when I first posted here, even though my question must have been answered a thousand times already.
Please keep us posted, hugs to your and Madame Truffe xxxx
What a beautiful, brave and life affirming post. Your thoughtful and positive reaction to your situation is extraordinary to read. I hope that you can feel the love and good wishes which are coming your way from those of us in this running community who have been cheered by your insightful and encouraging posts in the past. Becca x
I have always loved your pragmatic and gentle approach and even if you don't always take your own counsel I am sure you are fully aware of those times that you really need to. I'm glad you had such a wonderful run and it sounds truly cathartic. Once you settle into your treatment plan you will get a much better idea of how you (both mind and body) will deal with it, as I am sure you are aware. I hope it goes well for you and that you find yourself still well enough and able to both work and run as much as you wish and need.
Hugs for you and Madame da Truffe. Keep running when you are able and keep smiling - always.
So sad to read this post, but also honoured that you trusted us with your diagnosis, and inspired by your attitude to the journey ahead..
As so many others have said, you are indeed one of the cornerstones of this forum and someone most of us look up to. The outpouring of good wishes above stand as a testament to the effect your wise words and gentle humour have had over the years. I wish you all the very best for your forthcoming treatment. Do what's right for you and your family - your online family are with you all the way.
Like everyone else who has replied to this post, and no doubt the many more who have read it, I have always found your advice on this forum supportive, practical and a pleasure to read. Even with such difficult news to share, your thoughtfulness and and upbeat attitude shine through.
As someone who has been treated for cancer twice, involving three lots of surgery, radiotherapy, hormone treatment and chemotherapy, my experience has been that you never know where it will take you. You plan your route but find that the track doubles back. There are times when you just need to be alone in the dark places that you find yourself. There are times when even an uphill journey seems to require no effort and you wonder what the fuss was about.
To end on the positive note which you always encourage, all that is now behind me. I'll keep running and, thinking of you, I'll be smiling 😊
Having a younger sister who is now thankfully cancer free after being diagnosed at Stage 4, your message is a timely reminder that our bodies sometimes can't always be fit and healthy. Your pragmatic and focussed view of life will I am sure, hold you in good stead, over these coming trials and tribulations. Good luck with the treatment régime and keep running and smiling. Like many others I read your posts when in the 'shall I do this' mode, and of course your posts certainly encouraged me to my first official step on the journey.
Thank you for sharing this with us. You feel as though you get to know people in this forum, and I always love to read your contributions. I think you are right that the skills we learn from working through C25K and beyond help us in every aspect of our lives, and I am sure the determination that got you this far will help you now. The forum family are running alongside you. All the best
So, so sorry to hear your news IT but thank you so much for posting. And as all the loving replies here show -- you're family. You'll also always be a runner, whatever happens. It's as much a state of mind and an attitude to life as it is a physical thing. Do keep us all up to date, but in the meantime, much love.
Dear IannodaTruffe , what a wonderful description of your run. Your story is inspirational and your advice and support on this forum is always thoughtful.
Sorry to hear about your diagnosis. You have given yourself the best possible chance of recovery by having a fit and healthy body and a super positive attitude. Please keep posting.
May your kind and inspiring words that have helped so many of us be reflected back now and help you as you go through this journey. I hope the treatment is speedy and effective. Please keep us informed of your progress. With much love xx
I have no words, everyone else has expressed what I want to day better than I ever could. Thank you for being you, and never ever stop being the lovely warm positive man we all love
Smiling, some tears and a real sense of "what an amazing post", "I wasn't expecting that" and "what on earth do I say?!".
I'm so glad you began C25k when you did so that now your head and body are in the best place possible to face this challenge head on. Please never feel "a fraud", I'm only 4 weeks in and already injured. I'll need everything you've got to get me to my four year point, ha!!
Look after yourself matey. A smile, a wink and a 'you got this' 👍🤗
Not the news anyone wants to hear, but glad you feel able to share it with everyone on the forum and I wish you well. Also glad that you feel that running has given you the tools - both physical and mental- to help you deal with the situation you find yourself in. That strength will be required, but I'm sure you'll be able to deal with it. Your advice to others about getting symptoms checked out early is vital. We often hear people on this forum reassuring others that deciding to get out the door and do W1R1 is the most crucial step on the C25K journey; making that GP appointment is the equivalent with the journey you've just embarked upon. Anything that encourages people to take their health seriously is to be welcomed.
Not sure what to add... but ditto to all the above! You know you have the support from so many people on this site and you know we would do anything to help if called upon. Take care mate. 👍
Hi. So sorry to hear your news but glad that you could share it with us all. This forum is a genuine, caring community of like minded souls who will always be there for support. Hold onto the feeling of presence & living in the now which running gives, breathe and smile. We will all be running with you in the coming months. X
Oh man, so sorry to read your news.. Don't know why, but I fell you will pull through it, you seem like a type that won't be pushed aside by a few bad cells
My grandad was diagnosed in his mid sixties, also late, also spread. After a hospital stay it all looked glum so the man wanted to go home, stay with his folks and work his farm. They gave him months to live.
10 years later my grandad invited the same doctor who treated him (and gave him only months to live) over for lunch, which the doc accepted! The grandad was a positive type, wanted to work his land (or run across it like you), and work he did for many years later. When he finally 'leave' us he did it peacefully in his mid nineties, as an old man who beat the prostate C.
Keep it up, keep us posted, you will never be fraud, your posts kept me working through my injuries and complete my runs - I will run one for you this evening after work, and the one after, and the ones after that!
I wasn't expecting that! I've been on this forum - and this running journey - only a very short time but you are one of the contributors whose opinion I value the most. Even if you have to take a break from the running for a while, your contributions and wise words will still be so appreciated on here. Be strong but be kind to yourself x
I'm sorry to read this, a fellow runner friend of mine (but a proper runner like you, he runs marathons) had the same diagnosis about 5 years ago but everything is good now, stay positive xx
I'm glad you have told us, sorry that it existed to be told, especially as my Dad's prostate cancer has progressed to advanced (bones not local). I am going to be spending a fair old bit of time in the cancer centre that misswobble has raised money towards with her running exploits (and that has already been a pleasant thought to have whilst waiting around there) Between us we now know a lot about 'fit but not healthy' and a lot about fatigue (He's recently (reluctantly) started doing Tai Chi instead of spin class immediately prior to aquafit... I am not sure he knows how to run slowly... last year we went for a run together, a bit fast for me so I checked with him and he said it was a bit slow for him...)
I am not remotely surprised at your attitude - as your post implies, running can improve our mental fitness and resilience at least as much as our bodies' (if we'll let it... it's not a given) You could never be a fraud to us... you've paid your dues, nothing can wipe out your experience and your skill in communication. I wish you all the best with your treatment and hope that the money issues don't impinge on your quality of life too much (sadly these things *do* matter) Keep running when you can and want (as you know, I am a fan of getting out of bed, going for a run, going back to bed) and keep smiling!
I just read your latest post and I'm truly touched by it and all of those subsequent replies. I posted on here a few weeks back but was yet to do my first run, finding excuse after excuse but avidly reading all of the posts and absorbing all of the information, particularly from you, since you replied to my first post. Having read your latest post, I knew that my excuses were over, and I was inspired. I just completed W1R1 on my treadmill. For some reason, when I began, I felt quite emotional, but by the time I finished I was feeling energised and invigorated. Thank you.
The posts that you and others make have been truly enlightening and I'm very grateful to you. I read your posts with interest.
Although I don't know you, you were on my mind throughout the session. The fist track that came on? 'You Rock My World' and the last track? 'You might need somebody' Shola Ama. Well, we need you IannodaTruffe! And you will never be a fraud.
Thank you for inspiring me to begin my journey today.
Thankyou so much for sharing and I think its testament to the supportive nature of this forum that you have felt able to do so......... I so love your approach to running and all the wise words you share with us. I am so sorry to hear about this diagnosis and the forthcoming treatment...... and in your words, keep running, keep smiling....
Just picked up this post. Well done for putting this all down so beautifully. It takes special person to find such words of inspiration for others, when faced with such devastating news. I hope this post and the warm responses provides some catharsis to you in the weeks and months ahead.
It also serves as a reminder to the rest of us that: what we are all doing here, and the reasons why we are all running, are so fiercely important; that the best we can do is to get out there and 'literally' run for our lives.
You are such a warm and supportive man and I wish you all the best!
You asked if this post was appropriate for the C25k forum. I thought about it a couple of times during my W5R3 today and it helped me do the 20mins non-stop. I think that alone makes it appropriate.
I have been an avid reader of this forum since I started c25k (I'm now in wk9 and still have no idea how I got here!) but have never posted until now. Your post was so eloquent and in control and really hit a note with me, so for the first time I feel compelled to reply.
A little over 6 years ago, at 39 years old, I was diagnosed with breast cancer which had spread to the lymph nodes under my arm and was about to go global. At the time I weighed 24 stone and had only recently quit smoking after 20 years, so my health was already in a very poor way. But I survived, and after being given a second chance am now fitter and healthier than I have ever been in my life at 11 stone. I found a whole new community in the pages of this forum who have motivated and encouraged me without ever knowing that I existed, and you, IanoddaTruffe, have been a big part of that.
We owe it to ourselves and those who love us to respect our bodies and keep them as fit as we can. But things happen that we have no control over, and it is very sobering and scary when it happens to you. You are fit, strong, and in the best possible shape physically to take whatever is coming your way. You also seem to be mentally strong too, now it is time for the people who have been so inspired, encouraged and supported by you over their running journeys to return the favour and be there to support you - time to take back some of the good karma you have amassed. We are all with you and rooting for you, good luck with your new journey - we'll see you at the finish line!
You are an inspiration to me - in running, and now in sharing the news of your diagnosis in such an open and reflective manner. You will never be a fraud. I will run more mindfully in future, being aware of how lucky I am that I can run. Sometimes this crosses my mind, but not enough, I think.
I will keep running, and I will keep smiling, especially when I think of everything you bring to this forum. Thank you. I look forward to running with you virtually on your charity half-marathon.
I just wanted to add my own thanks for all of your helpful posts, and my best wishes and hopes for a full recovery. None of us know, when we will face a life-threatening diagnosis, and I can only hope that, if faced with one, I can respond in the same way as you. Sending you hugs x
So sorry to read that Pal. Too many good men being hit with Cancer. I have to say - I am phoning my Doc to schedule an exam because of this. She did say it was 'recommended' for over 50's but I kind of laughed it off and used my 'perfect' urinalysis and blood work as the motive NOT to get one done. Really of course it was a totally immature reaction to the thought of being 'probed' Well, it hits very close to home when one of my Running Family takes a hit like this. I will never again take my health for granted not have any hesitation in doing what I need to do to 'treasure' it.
Everyone here is here for you Iannoda, you know that .If there is anything I can ever personally do for you - you know it will be done. Yes, keep smiling and keep running. Forget this 'being a fraud' nonsense - your post shows you have the heart of a Warrior - and God knows that this whole thing we do here is not JUST about the running part, its about transcending our old lives and our old selves so we definitely need the wisdom on other matters that one like oyu can bring to the table. So - run with us even when you may not be 'running' OK pal?
I haven't 'known' you long, but you have made a big impression with your incredibly supportive and positive posts. I have been thinking of you all day since reading your post this morning. A new journey for you, a new program to believe in, a new challenge. Wishing you all the very very best , not least because you have earned the best, you deserve the best. Keep smiling, remain posotive. You're in great company and you can do this
I am so sorry to read this, and can not even try to imagine th worry you must have been carrying around quietly while waiting for the result of the biopsy. It's such a horrible disease, and the constant worry that will be a companion for a long while is a drag.
The way you've taken the news shows your strong spirit. It must be difficult, but you pull it off. And you're right - all the hard work you've put into your running has made you stronger, and that will definitely benefit you now.
I hope you will continue to run while and when you can. And even if there are times during the treatment where you can't, then please do remember that you are such an important part of this community. I admire your strength and have admired your posts over the last years. So please do stick around.
Hopefully the treatment will be effective. I know that I'll keep fingers and everything crossed for you mate.
As for the charity HM - give it a go, you deserve the great feeling.
Wishing you all the best with your treatment, all I can say is a positive attitude is just as important as a healthy body when treating cancer, never give up.
Thank you for all the advice and support you give all us runners on your forum.
Thank you for your brave post. Your words are so valued by all the fantastic people on this forum. All the very best with your treatment and remember we are all there with you.
Only just seen your post/news Ian. Sending you loads of good thoughts/positivity and totally agree with you about this forum. It's a beacon of a 'place' and you are an important part of what makes it shine x
Wow ! Thank you, I am humbled by your honesty of sharing such personal news. You show incredible strength and such a beautiful way of looking at life.
You are an inspiration to me. You write eloquently, to the point that as I read tears role down my cheeks.
I've read and know about mental strength, but thanks to you, the penny has dropped as to how important it really is. Your mind is like a muscle, it has to be worked just as hard if not harder, then your legs.
I can see now that I have been to quick to give up, not just the running , but other things in my life. I've always thought I'd fail at it 'so what's the point' a condition of worth I feel. But perseverance is the key. It's not easy, but it's not meant to be, if it were easy there would be no challenge and we wouldn't grow as people.
I wish you all the luck & love in the world to get through this and I will be thinking of you xx
IT you are an inspiration and role model. Sorry to read your news. You help so many with your posts, and even in such adversity your post is helping this community and its male brethren. Thank you for sharing your news of this difficult personal situation. I am sure your positive attitude and strength will see you through this and we will all be here for you on your journey. Keep running, keep smiling, thought are with you.
Here for you mate, how about just setting us challenges (daft as you like) and we'll try and provide photographic evidence! Anything that keeps your interest and sees you looking forward, really...
Hello Tim - I just checked into the forum after several months' absence and was shocked to read your news. I am so sorry you have to deal with this diagnosis. It's so random and indiscriminate. I risk repeating what everyone else has said but... you are strong and fit (and have such a sage and philosophical attitude to life) so you are starting from the best possible place. I know many people who are either recovered from or living well and healthily with cancer under control. That doesn't make it any less frightening but the odds are in your favour and the latest treatments are very effective (and less harsh than in the past). Thank you for sharing, I wish you all the very best in what will no doubt be a tiresome journey at times, but keep posting - and once a runner, you're always a runner.
Ianno, so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I hope very much that you are able to continue to enjoy the many pleasures of running throughout your treatment. Your post is so inspiring. I wish you all the very best, and thank you for sharing your warning with us about the symptoms of prostate cancer. I will remember them for the men in my life, my partner, family and friends. Keep running and keep posting 🌳🌈⛅🌾🌿☔🌞🌄🌅🌊🌎
Don't ever stop posting. In fact, post more to share the strain if you feel it would help.
Can I just say as a newbie to this forum who is only on week 7, what a joy you and your fellow mentors and graduates have brought to my life. You write so beautifully and you are a mine of inspiration, encouragement and knowledge.
I have known 3 people close to me who have fought and won against cancer. You will find the support offered to you by the medical teams and their colleagues quite incredible and it will bolster your determination to beat it, as will all the good wishes and support of your friends and followers here.
IT we are all behind you, you can see that by the number of replies you already have! My dad was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer 5 years ago. He walked several miles every day before he was diagnosed, (he didn't run), and was told because he was fit for his 65 years of age, he recovered far more quickly than expected, all due to being in a good state of health before his surgery. He is still monitored regularly but back to walking 3-4 miles a day with his dog. He very nearly didn't get a biopsy, so you're right, the diagnosis is your lifeline as who knows where he would be now had he not got his treatment so swiftly. Your running will have prepared you so well physically and mentally and you'll be back out again sooner than you expect after your treatment. We will all be there cheering you on all the way. My brother trained for and ran the London Marathon for Prostate Cancer two years after he was treated. An amazing achievement. I am only just about to graduate on C25K, so I am not at marathon standard yet, but I would be happy to join in a virtual run with the group if it goes ahead! Wishing you all the best and keep posting! X
Thank you for your post. Actually, I have just joined the forum and I did so because I wanted to read your post - so thank you doubly, nay, triply.
I am both saddened and impressed by your story and am grateful to you for it has helped to spur me on, touch a sense of boldness in myself which I seemed to have lost since my business went bankrupt 2 years ago. Whilst I regularly pat myself on the back for having remained positive, upbeat, forward-looking and not having fallen into a depression, I am aware that I have a tendency to fall into a sort of "mental paralysis" when it comes to taking a step out into the world to build something up again..... and this includes, getting fit.
After reading your post I feel I could envisage getting off my backside and moving - first time in 2 years! No mean feat. Not only was this due to your story and your honest, positive perspective about your situation. It was also the description of your 12.6K run which reminded me of my running days nearly 20 years ago when I ran for a London club (Middle distance track runner) but I used to love the long Sunday morning runs with my clubmates in all weathers. I stopped running in my early 30s after repetitive double achilles tendinitis problems meant I'd spend half the year having trouble getting up and down stairs! I have often harped back to my running days with a lot of nostalgia but have just always considered that I could never go back to it for risk of damaging my limbs and being crippled in old age. I'm not sure that's true anymore - especially since I definitely don't want to do competitve running........... Your beautiful 12.6K run in, I quote: "the Mid Devon landscape - a stunning patchwork of greens and browns, under a blue sky dappled with lazy clouds, as I plodded contentedly up the hill, ................ ............. enough to sharpen all the senses,....... more relaxed and truly in my element. Drinking in these landscapes, in a way that is so different from walking through them, is one of the joys that running has given to me, for which I will be eternally grateful" - your description actually made me cry.
I've been away and hiding too long. Time to crawl out of the dustwork and shake off the cobwebs.
And so I have just decided that I am going to be starting the couch to 5K programme - and I would like to have your inspiring and gently company "run alongside me" in my mind. Hope you don't mind! And I do hope you will keep posting your news.......
Bollocks. How bloody unlucky. This is very sad to read but it appears that your physical and mental being is in a good place to deal with this next phase of stuff. Thanks for posting too, which must have been difficult. A good reminder for us men folk to be aware of our age and what may befall us if we don't check stuff with our doc. Keep us up to date please as your cheery posts have always been great to read. I know I've been absent from this forum for a while but I still remember your words to me once when I was panicking about how I was always competing with my stats. You said "forget the stats and just go for a slow and lazy run." Have NEVER forgotten those words. They keep me in check on a regular basis. Good luck dude.
💖oh my... saddened to read this news ... best wishes to you ... (I'm not great with words so big hugs for you) please be aware your posts keep many of us focused and on track and many of us take you with us on our journey every time we hit the road you are ingrained in our mission to keep running 🏃🏾 and keep smiling 🏃🏽♀️😘
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W4R2: done and enjoyed!
Anniversary in sight but not the finish line!!
