Take that first step. It doesn’t have to be big, just little by little is fine. The pro’s out way the cons.  Be proud of yourself for taking the initiative, take a deep breath and just go for it.

In August 2022 Chris Johnson was diagnosed with a mid-oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma. He was 59 at the time and working fulltime in the medical diagnostic profession (medical laboratory scientist). In the space of just a few weeks, his life dramatically changed.

Below Chris tells his story to provide hope and inspiration for others:

The tumor was located halfway down my throat (oesophagous), about the size of a large huhu grub, preventing me from swallowing to a point where only liquids could be slowly trickled down to my stomach to provide nutrition. I was placed under the awesome care of the Whangarei Hospital Oncology and Upper G.I. teams, and a treatment plan initiated.

I underwent chemoradiation treatment at Auckland Hospital over a 5-week period while being accommodated at the wonderful Cancer Society’s Domain Lodge just across the road from the hospital.

I lost over 20kg in weight in a short period of time, and for someone who was on the light side to begin with, this was upsetting to witness not just for myself but also for others in my support whānau (they know who they are). I can’t thank the kind and capable people who cared and supported me through the worst of it. I have nothing but admiration, respect and gratitude for the treatment and care provided by the many clinicians, technical and nursing staff at both Whangarei and Auckland Hospitals.

Two years have now passed. I have now graduated from just a teaspoon full of creamy chicken soup to full on bacon and eggs, salads, spuds etc. These days I now adhere to the “see food and eat it” diet. I don’t count calories.

It has taken some determination and persistence but with recent clear CT scan results, and a future restored, I recognised that I needed to get physically active and fit again to better enjoy the opportunities ahead.

With some good counselling and encouragement from a good mate, I began visiting the gym at Kensington Fitness about three months ago. Thanks to the Green Prescription support provided by Sport Northland, and the encouragement of the staff there, the cost of the first four visits were covered.

In the earlier part of my recovery, it was really all about nutrition and improving my ability to eat and swallow. I could barely pick my nose. Trying to restore some basic strength and movement followed and this transitioned to milestones like mowing the lawns, gardening, and walking my dogs rather than using the quad bike for such.

Now, I head to the gym three times a week. As an over 60-year-old, the cost is manageable. The gym at Kensington Fitness is a truly great facility. The staff are really professional, decent and encouraging, the facilities are top notch, and the other people attending are nothing short of inspiring. All walks of life, young and old (me), fit and less fit (me) are regulars. It truly is a community facility that is well used and highly regarded.

I use the weight machines mainly as you can tailor them to suit your own capabilities. I do a two hour plus session and then hit the treadmill for 15 minutes at the end. Like most people, I started low and slow but I’m very happy with my progress over the last 3 months or so. It’s amazing what your body will do for you if you treat it right.

I walk my dogs daily, probably 2 – 3 km. Gym work has certainly improved my leg strength. My plan is to drop a gym session and replace it with a swimming session instead but I’ve yet to dip my toe back in the water in that regard, but soon will.

I have benefited hugely from being more physically active. I can now withstand moderate physical exertion without sending my BPM through the roof. I enjoy, rather than tolerate or endure, the exercise and feel good afterwards. Being physically tired is great and I sleep better. I am always hungry and now eat like a horse. Socially, it is good to get out and do stuff and exchange even a word or two with staff or other attendees at the gym. There is always a warm smile to enjoy from the staff.

In short, it’s a very positive thing to be doing. I would encourage anyone teetering on deciding to give the gym a go to just take the plunge, talk to Sport Northland about Green Prescription, and go for it. If it works positively for someone like me, then why not for you too?  

I guess for me, the biggest challenge was realising just how poor my physical condition was post cancer treatment. I think also, as you age, you can become a bit body conscious and a little less confident. Little by little this can be turned around and overcome of course. As I have said before there are some very inspiring people that regularly attend the gym at Kensington Fitness that demonstrate just what a bit of determination and perseverance can achieve – funny how they are all happy too!

I’m very lucky to be alive and for a while there it was not looking good. It saddens me profoundly that so many people just don’t get a second chance like the one afforded me. In order to enjoy my future as best I can, investing in my physical and mental wellbeing is simply a no-brainer.

Funnily enough, last Christmas I mentioned to my brother that I wouldn’t mind maybe going skiing again, as a future goal. When he had stopped laughing (not really) he said that in order to prevent my legs snapping in half perhaps getting fit again might be a sensible idea first. “Smart arse” I said but took it onboard. I reckon I’m close to being up for the challenge next winter though, so look out brother.

My goal is to weigh in around 85 – 90 kg so exercise combined with good rest and recovery is key. Recovery equals good nutrition for me so plenty of protein, plenty of vege and roughage and being regimental about it. And stick with it so it does become your lifestyle.

Support is the key and having a chat with the lovely staff at Sport Northland plus utilising the Green Prescription has been great. While it was me who made the first steps back toward physical activity all and any encouragement or support from others really does help, so thank you Green Prescription and Sport Northland.

Friends, family and neighbours have been awesome too. A kind word here and there, listening and empathising is huge. The clinicians and supporting staff – wow. It has been one heck of a journey, and I simply would not be here today without the combined kindness of them all.

Take that first step. It doesn’t have to be big, just little by little is fine. The pro’s definitely out way the cons.  Activity does make you feel good. Take help when offered and take inspiration from those on the same journey as you. It is something you can share and do with others. Be proud of yourself for taking the initiative, take a deep breath and just go for it.

Article written by Nat Moon, Healthy Lifestyle Support