Padreruf

Cut will be +6.... Average Sunday score will be 72.4

I am 73, had a spinal fusion 3 years ago due to a plasmacytoma of the L4. 1 ½ years later I developed full blown Multiple Myeloma -- a blood cancer. Underwent chemo for 4 months and then had an autologous Bone Marrow Transplant in March of 2023. I am now in Complete Remission -- but the way back has been tough. Several years ago I tore the Rotator Cuff in both shoulders -- about 8 months apart. Needless to say my body was a weak wreck for golf. In January I added lifting light weights to my daily stretching routine. I now work out at least 6 days per week -- and the difference is amazing. Being stronger has made all the difference in my ability to control the swing, etc. I've lost 20 lbs and picked up muscle as well. It is never too late...I went from being on the verge of giving up golf to being stronger and more flexible than I was 5 years ago. Get off the sofa and out of the recliner and start exercising!!

Hit balls for the 2nd time since spinal fusion back surgery in April -- last week was the first. Back and core are stronger due to 1 hour stretching and strengthening workouts every day. However, I'm still not fully back...by a long shot. Working with a ½ to ¾ swing length, swinging in rhythm and not forcing anything. Gap wedge was about 10 yards shorter than before, but I anticipated that. Just glad to hit and not feel pain...any suggestions out there as to how I should progress, let me hear it!! I've rehabbed both shoulders before, but not a spine!!

After 4 months I can say that walking with a push cart is the way to go...even @ 67. Much more relaxing and enjoyable -- even had a 3 some in carts ahead of us tell us that we kept up with them the whole day...which we did.

I walked in NC a lot since retiring last 10/31 -- but not so much in Florida or here...I thought I would, but I get most of my rounds through GolfNow -- Hot Deals -- and the low price includes cart. If I am riding with someone I try to walk as much as possible and usually can get 3-4 miles in 18 holes. Trying to hit 10,000 steps a day and walking a golf course is the best way I know. Ironically, in SC (Upstate) I walked all the time...moved to NC and club required carts most of the time (revenue.) I gained 30 lbs riding...now trying to walk it off!

Yes...back problems are nothing to sneeze at. Evidently he cannot get his back to cooperate enough to practice and play -- and that is with the best trainers and medical minds around. The strain his workouts and 100% swinging put on his back have taken their toll. Who would have thought that all that working out was bad...but evidently he was doing the wrong things. I don't think we will ever see him be competitive again. Too much else to do and when these guys cannot compete at the same level, they usually walk away. Too much pride... "...most of our wounds in life are self-inflicted..."