Cycling, walking trails vital to our health

I was diagnosed with prostate cancer at the age of 65, in the fall of 2005.

It was decided that a surgical procedure, prostatectomy was our choice of treatment. Getting exceptional health care from my family doctor, the urologist, nursing staff at the Victoria General Hospital and my spouse provided a surgical cure.

Movember has special significance for my family, including my grandson who proudly sent a picture of his moustache today.

By January 2006 my convalescents resulted in concern about my cholesterol levels. I asked my doctor for a statin drug prescription.

My practical doctor suggested a change in lifestyle to see if a “green prescription” might help. He suggested trying more exercise and a good diet before drugs.

At the end of the visit my doctor had changed my mindset and kindly challenged me to get off my “duff.” That was 15 years and 60,540 kilometres ago.

I have averaged 4,033 kilometres per year, cycling on safe accessible trails paid for by our local, provincial and federal taxpayers. This healthy 80-year-old is aware and grateful for the resources and hard negotiations that make Greater Victoria cycling trails available for everyone’s physical and mental health.

I continually see improving relationships among partners in our shared community of cyclists, equestrians, pedestrians and vehicle drivers.

I often get and give greetings, smiles or waves of acknowledgement on the trails and at intersections. It might be because I am an old guy but I would rather think it is because we are all learning.

I believe cyclists have an obligation to do our part to enhance our partners’ rights and to respectfully share our great trails and roads.

Harry Atkinson Sidney