Hi everyone,
As you're no doubt aware I haven't been riding much in the last few weeks. I've had immense back pain that's been quite excruciating and just haven't had the motivation to ride.
So eventually I went to the doctor who ordered blood tests and x-rays (and now ultrasounds). Turns out I have some curvature of the spine, something not quite right with my vertabrae (flattened off or some such term) that apparently was the result of something from my youth, a problematic muscular issue with my lower back (it's been painful as all hell) and to top it all off, looks like I also have a small hernia. All only a week out before I was thinking of having another Everest attempt. Ugh!
So, what to do? I've been given a pile of painful exercises to do, as well as a referal for ultrasounds to see the extent of this hernia. Really feeling quite annoyed and frustrated at this moment. I'd enjoyed a relatively good buildup these past few months, and have been feeling really energetic and fitter than ever. All I really needed was some distance in my legs, which becuase of my back I haven't been able to get in. But before my back got really bad I was still in the frame of mind to have another go "on the quiet" and see what transpired.
This was the ideal situation for me to have a go at Everesting as my family will be away for a week. With the exception of my Ay-Up light battery dying a few weeks back (and no replacement due for another 2 weeks), I'd be doing it with a "25 lumen" handlebar light from K-Mart. Definitely NOT ideal, but still "sort of" doable.
To pass the time commuting by train I've been reading a LOT of books - all cycling related. Recent books were Graham Obree's Flying Scotsman and just 2 nights back, Chris Boardmans latest Triumphs and Turbulence which is proving to be an excellent and highly recommended read. Brad Wiggins My Hour has been one of my key motivators so far these past few months though. Just love his candid style.
So next weekend I might sneak out and see how far I can go before falling off my bike. My initial thoughts are to see 1. If I can get on my bike (probably a major point), 2. How much it hurts to ride, and 3. How far I can go before failure/exhaustion sets in.
No thoughts of Everesting due to my body's failure to work correctly, but I've missed riding and need to do something to keep me occupied. God knows mowing and gardening aren't high on my list!!
Jeff
