There have been so many amazing people in here who have been so kind and generous to me over the last 18 months and since I haven't been saying much for a while, I thought I might post an update. Both for them and anyone else who is interested to know.
My health has been a rollercoaster which seems to have settled at a level of late. While I am no longer on the heavy Endone and Oxycontin, I exist on daily consumption of steroids, ibuprofen, paracetamol, somac and several natural stuff such as krill etc. Pain is a constant, but I have learnt to handle it and don't often let it show.
I can't do too much still. The long weekend was great, but I had to stay in bed all this week to recover to give you an idea.
Financially, I'm screwed and will have to declare bankruptcy soon. I am eligible for sickness benefits, but cannot get them till I lodge a tax return and as I owe the ATO and have no money to pay an accountant to wind up the company and collate and process everything, bankruptcy is my only option. I have survived 18 months now with zero income, but now have run out of things to sell, so have had my hand forced.
Now, the good bits. I am still mentally positive. It's taught me to realise what's important in life and to appreciate the simple things. Friends, a warm sunny day, nature.
I've also learnt how to barter. Swapping Venison with local traders for fruit, veggies, chicken, eggs etc.,
I've learnt how to hunt Deer effectively as this has been my only source of meat. Amazing how focussed you become when your hungry....
I am living in an old 14 foot caravan with my two pups. I was in a state forest for 5 months, but recently moved onto the back of a farm where I have access to a rainwater tank, rather than getting my water from the river.
Power comes from a battery which is recharged using a small generator for a few hours each day. One of the reasons I don't post much.
I have a battery operated shower and heat water from either the fire or gas burner to heat the water for it.
All this might sound terrible to you who have warm heated houses with hot and cold water from a tap, but I'm happy and have become used to managing it and working around it.
All in all, while I would love to be healthy, live in a house, work and earn money and be able to ride again, I know this situation is only temporary and eventually I will beat this illness, get some work and fight my way back to a level playing field.
The long weekend was a big boost for my spirits seeing all the guys and has spurred my determination to do a Lazarus.
I have been lurking a little when possible, but as I'm not riding, I can't answer many posts on what the latest tyre, suspension or brakes are the best anymore.....
I wear my ksrc cap, scarf or long sleeve T almost every day as an incentive to get my arse back on a bike. I do miss riding.
Hope your all well, kicking arse with your riding and enjoying it. Ciao.
"I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence or insanity to anyone, but they've always worked for me" Hunter S. Thompson.
There are really only two questions in life. 1.Which way do i go? 2.What is the lap record?