You Won’t Believe the 5 Shocking Lifestyle Changes That Can Extend Your Life Post-MDS Diagnosis!

Richard “Rocky” Kimball, a dedicated outdoor enthusiast and endurance athlete from Colorado, has had to reshape his life following a diagnosis of the rare blood cancer known as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Those who know Kimball would recognize him as someone who once scaled the heights of Colorado’s famous 14,000-foot peaks and completed marathons. However, his recent health challenges forced him to reconsider not only his physical activities but also his identity as an athlete.

“I think that's really important, to remain engaged,” Kimball told CURE during an interview. “Isolation is deadly. It's more toxic than cancer, perhaps. You have to do it yourself, but you don't have to, and should never, do it alone.”

His journey with MDS began as a gradual shift. Once an active climber and runner, Kimball found himself having to adapt to a new reality where longer hikes and marathon running were no longer feasible. “It was progressive,” he explained. “At first, you're doing shorter hikes and shorter bike rides; certainly, my marathon days were well in the past.”

Facing this new terrain of life, Kimball began to explore interests that required less physical exertion but still allowed him to engage meaningfully with the world around him. “I taught myself to play the piano,” he said, highlighting a newfound appreciation for music. In addition to music, he dedicated time each day to studying hematology, a field he hadn't previously explored as he wasn't a science major. “I enjoy and read fiction,” he noted. “I’m a journalist; I’ve always enjoyed writing and poetry.”

Even with these changes, the outdoors remained a vital part of his life. “I live in a cabin, and I find the time to get outside, walk in the trees, go sit on a rock, and that's my recess,” he said. This connection to nature not only offers him solace but also reminds him of his adventurous past. He has consciously incorporated moments of outdoor exploration into his daily routine, emphasizing the importance of these "recess" moments as a way of maintaining mental health.

Moreover, Kimball has made a concerted effort to avoid isolation, which he views as a significant threat to well-being. “Like every good school student, you need time for others,” he said. He regularly invites friends over for tea or coffee on his cabin porch, fostering connections that enrich his life. “I really try to not just remain in isolation,” Kimball added, reiterating the vital role of social engagement in his journey.

Kimball’s story is a poignant reminder of the impact a chronic illness can have on one’s identity and lifestyle. The transition from an active life full of physical challenges to a more contemplative existence might seem daunting, yet Kimball’s approach offers valuable lessons: adapting does not mean losing passion; it often means discovering new avenues for joy and connection. As he continues to navigate the complexities of living with MDS, his story is an inspiring testament to resilience.

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