Well I’m afraid my back didn’t get better the next day – or for any of the last 10! I’ve been suffering a bit, but help is at hand – my specialist changed my meds last week, and the new stuff seems to be helping – although it’s left me pretty shattered for the past week and I’ve done a lot (a serious lot) of sleeping!

I visited the Neurosurgeon last Wednesday, and as usual was optimistic about the possibilities of there being a fix for my problems. And, as usual, the neurosurgeon dashed my hopes and told me that the only thing I could do is to adapt… I’ve been trying to adapt for over 5 years now!!!

So there’s no miracle cure, and I have to get in with it. I’m sure plenty of other people manage – I always look to Lance Armstrong when I’m feeling down about my condition – he got through some pretty life-threatening situations and still went on to excel. So shall I – although my physical days are gone and I won’t be winning any sports, I can still live a life with intention and determination – and I will.

Rob Bell