Treading water: How I’m putting a new spin on an old hobby

A writer returns to the pool five years after his first spontaneous pneumothorax

Charlton Harris avatar

by Charlton Harris |

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Motivation comes at the strangest times.

For the past few weeks, something has been bugging me. At first, I thought I was just feeling down due to the cold weather and early nightfall. But the more I tried to ignore what I was feeling, the more “blah” I felt.

I paused to wonder what was missing from my life. I immediately started thinking about how pulmonary sarcoidosis and the numerous spontaneous pneumothoraces I’ve endured have changed my life. I felt like I was about to lose all of the physical progress I’d made over the years. I figured I’d better get out of this mental trap before I become paralyzed with guilt and self-pity. Sometimes this mental circus is a never-ending sideshow.

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An ‘aha’ moment

A few mornings ago, while I was having my tea, it hit me: I definitely needed a change. A different environment or routine would be a welcome distraction from my doldrums.

It dawned on me that I hadn’t swum in over five years. Before my first lung collapse, I used to swim three or four times a week — so often that I’d ordered a waterproof MP3 player. There’s nothing better than listening to Miles Davis or old-school rap while swimming underwater.

But all of that ended five years ago. Because of my multiple lung collapses, I had to give up the water. Or so I thought.

An uncle of mine suggested I check out the facility he went to for water rehabilitation. I reached out to them and scheduled an appointment. We set a date, and the staff told me my initial consultation would be an assessment of my strength and physical abilities. I felt I’d made the right decision in reaching out to them. Finally, I thought, I was going to get back in the water.

On the day of my appointment, I arrived early and was excited to meet the staff. I toured the facility and did the required assessments. Once we finished, I mentioned that sometimes I require supplemental oxygen when doing physical exercises. I could tell I’d be the first client with that requirement, but they understood and it didn’t seem to complicate their program.

While completing some paperwork, I was asked why I’d chosen this facility. I explained that my uncle had participated in their water rehab program and loved it. I also said that, in my experience, the fastest way to get a body in shape is to swim. Swimming works your entire body. That said, I told them I wasn’t interested in swimming laps or swimming underwater. My overall goal is simply to tread water.

If I can tread water, I can work my entire body. I can build up my lung function, my cardiovascular system, and my stamina, all of which add a feather to my cap of independence. Sometimes in life, you have to tread water before you can dive in.


Note: Sarcoidosis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Sarcoidosis News or its parent company, BioNews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to sarcoidosis.

Comments

Unkle Woodchuck avatar

Unkle Woodchuck

Never give up! Your determination to thrive is inspirational.

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Charlton Harris avatar

Charlton Harris

Thanks, Unkle Woodchuck! I always feel inspired when I read your comments.
Stay Blessed!
-C-

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Joanna Kennedy avatar

Joanna Kennedy

Thank you so very much, you are an inspiration to me I was diagnose with brain sarcoidosis in 2022, it not being easy with horrible headache every day, I’m glad I can read about you and feel some relief,

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Charlton Harris avatar

Charlton Harris

Thank you for your kind words, Joanna!
You'll find that the journey won't be an easy trip, but s long as you can enjoy the simple things that make you happy, nothing else will matter. I wish you peace and blessings along this journey, and I encourage to face everyday with the resolve that you'll do something better today than you did yesterday.
Remember, every day is a new adventure so keep moving and hold on for the ride!
Peace!

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John avatar

John

Way to go, Charlton!

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Charlton Harris avatar

Charlton Harris

Thanks, John!
I greatly appreciate your encouragement and support. It's not often we receive such humble gifts from people!
Peace and Blessings to you, my friend!

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Marci Nadler avatar

Marci Nadler

Oh yes, I just started back swimming in late Jan. That water has a way of making you feel so alive. And sleep so darn well later. I was swimming laps before covid and didn't realize just how much I missed it. But yeah my breathing is much rougher than it was then. But of course I am also packing another 20 lbs around. Slowly but surely do what you can and then increase as the body says you can. And enjoy the heck out of it. And if treading water gets boring, try a pool noodle. You can work on all sorts of things with a noodle-almost like weights. And if you get tired they will keep you afloat. Happy Floaties to you Charlton!
Marci

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Charlton Harris avatar

Charlton Harris

Thanks for writing, Marci!
I have to admit, I'm so glad I suggested this to my doctor. He was more than happy to write me a prescription for water therapy. I've been enjoying it ever since. Admittedly, I'm not doing laps, I'm simply working on strength and balance, and this has helped a great deal. I also keep my portable oxygen poolside should I need it, and we monitor my O2 levels while I'm in the pool. Surprisingly, my readings haven't been bad-they've actually pretty good. I also try to walk 1/2 mile on the treadmill on my alternate days.
Remember, a body in motion is the best thing when dealing with sarcoidosis.
Keep moving and remember, each new day is an adventure!
Peace and Blessings!

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wendy avatar

wendy

Im amazed of how you have helped me on my journey to never give up

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Charlton Harris avatar

Charlton Harris

Thank you, Wendy!
I REALLY appreciate your comment and how I've helped you through your journey. My goal is to inspire and motivate folks like me who refuse to quit. As long as I can do something, I can do anything I try to!
Continued Blessings to you!
-C-

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