In 2007 I ran the New York City marathon.  I was 58 years old.  I continued running for several years and then, when I reached my early 70’s, my knees suddenly started bothering me and I was advised to stop running.  I began walking.  Everywhere.  We don’t own a car, so other than the generous loans of friend’s cars, I walk.  The aches and pains began to show up in places that I didn’t even know could have aches and pains.  I always made fun of my older friends when they started a conversation with their latest ailment and suddenly, there I was talking about all my latest ailments, medications I was taking, and generally, how I was feeling.  I’m pretty sure my arrogant self never thought I’d get to this.  I find myself emailing my Dr. friends for advice and also consulting “Dr. Google” on a regular basis.  

I really don’t have any “serious” health issues other than my knees, my deteriorating spinal cord, my esophageal issues, and various general aches and pains.  See, there I go talking about my health and making it center-stage of even this blog post.  

I must say that in addition to all of this I still walk everywhere. I haven’t let any of these things get in the way of my life.  Until a few years ago I would see all of these old people everywhere and not put myself in their shoes, but rather think of myself as younger and more fit. 

My dear friend Carleen, always said that when you’re in your 50’s or even your early 60’s, and people discover your age, they may say things like. “Wow I can’t believe you are that age.” Or, “You certainly don’t look ___  (fill in the age blank).” Then you reach an age, usually sometime in your late 60’s, when the comment is, “That’s nice.” 

When I turned 70 I was still running, not often, but I could run.  I participated in the Tri for a Cure, a mini triathlon, until I was 68. I guess I thought that would go on forever.  There was also a time when I would go to a Japanese restaurant and sit on a mat on the floor.  Today, I would need 2 or 3 people to help me down and up again, one of whom would have to be named “Derrick.”

With the help of Advil and constant motion, I am keeping the problems at bay.  I can’t imagine a life where I can’t walk everywhere and be able to travel.  I must admit that when I’m alone and boarding a plane (Steve would never do this) I often step forward when they ask if anyone needs additional assistance.  I board the plane before the masses and get settled in.  I can still place my bag in the overhead compartment and make a dash for a connecting flight.  

In June I will turn 76 – that puts me in my late 70’s.  I will go proudly and hope that when someone asks me my age, they say more than “That’s nice.”