After struggling with Ulcerative Colitis for the past 2 years, I have decided to take the 2014 Season Off. Symptoms usually worsen around Feb - May for me each year but this year, symptoms had begun getting worse in mid-January. Met with my Gastro last week and he says that if I don't let the inflammation in my colon heal, the resulting effects can be permanent and in the end, that is a risk I am no longer willing to take. I avoided recommendations made by my doctors the past 2 seasons because I couldn't imagine not competing in this sport. To me, it was well worth dealing with the symptoms as long as I got to go and compete at Regionals and try and achieve my goals. But now, I can't be selfish about it anymore and it is time to relax and let my body heal up the way it needs to. I don't want to be the dad that shits himself at my daughters events because my colon is all jacked up from the years of abuse I put it through.
I realize it is a young man's sport now and at 33 my window is closing pretty quick. It sucks to not be able to leave on my own terms but this was the easiest tough decision I have had to make...if that makes sense. I literally have no idea what the hell I am going to do for the next 4-6 months, the last 4 years of my life have been spent training for one goal. I feel that I have been as disciplined as anyone in this Sport in regards to my training and lifestyle but my skillset just wasn't what it needed to be when it counted. I have met some really cool people and been able to learn alot about myself throughout this process. For me, it was never about the recognition or the spotlight, that was not the reason I competed. I love the discipline of preparation. I love testing myself day in and day out and see how I respond mentally and physically. I loved showing up to Regionals and having your training show through...you can't hide, if you didn't put in the work, it will show. Anyway, for those that supported me over the past four years on this ride, thanks for everything. Not sure what the future holds but I am sure this won't be the end.
Best wishes and I hope for your speedy recovery Steve. I think I was in the gym when you did your first muscle up, at Carolina Crossfit circa 2008. I competed against you at Battle on the Border once too. Anyways, any time I have a larger athlete tell me that they can't compete in Crossfit because they're not the typical 5'8" or so, I argue that point with them, then tell them about you. I'll be keeping an eye out to see how it's coming along.
ReplyDeleteRobby Boutwell