John Spencer

Age: 77
Country: United Kingdom
Location: Upton. Lincolnshire
Email: spencerjohnmick@yahoo.co.uk
Height: 6 ft 2 in
Weight: 185 lb
Logbook ID: 873773
Member since: July 13, 2010

Having been a keep fit fanatic for most of my life. As a Teenager, I was told it would not last.

In 2008 I had a life changing illness. I was diagnosed with a rare form of Leukaemia, in which little is known. Prognosis 10 months. I underwent 12 months of aggressive Chemotherapy. In which a small window of stability became possibly.

In 2009 Followed more Chemotherapy. At this point, I now had been in isolation for many months. A search by the Antony Nolan foundation, for a suitable match for a Bone Marrow transplant was now underway. No match in the UK or Europe, could be found. My only chance for survival now lay in the hands of the U.S.A. One Donor only was suitable from their register of 6 million.

My first transplant failed. My Donor gave for a second time. Which I am pleased to say was successful. I shall be forever indebted to my Donor.

My following 2 years of treatment, had now ended. My fitness level had now become zero. After 3 months, I could only manage 1 press up. By 6 months 10 were now possible, followed by 2 miles on the Gym Bike. Determined to get back Rowing again, I could only manage 500 meters. The first time I managed 2000 meters. This had taken me 1 year to achieve. My time 38 minutes - 47 seconds. A milestone in my recovery had now been achieved. (My 2000 meter time is now under 8 minutes.)

After countless set back's over the following 3 years. I am pleased to say that my fitness level for my age, is more than I could have ever hoped for. My strengh has been to focus on what I can do, & not on what, I cannot do. Although, not to lose sight of the impossible.

I wish to take this opportunity, in thanking all concerned for their help & encouragement in my roller coaster journey so far.

I wish to pay special Tribute to my late partner Diane, for her selfless efforts in supporting me throughout my ordeal.

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