Eye of the Tiger

Cue the cheesy song “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor from Rocky III:

“Risin’ up, back on the street
Did my time, took my chances
Went the distance, now I’m back on my feet
Just a man and his will to survive
So many times, it happens too fast
You trade your passion for glory
Don’t lose your grip on the dreams of the past
You must fight just to keep them alive

It’s the eye of the tiger, it’s
the thrill of the fight
Rising up to the challenge of our rival
And the last known survivor
stalks his prey in the night
And he’s watching us all with the eye of the tiger”

So many things in this song remind me of the ongoing battles we have with CF. We “go the distance” each and every time we have an exacerbation. For Rocky it was the “thrill of the fight” that kept him going. Like Rocky winning against CF is a motivator for us to carry on. Other times we have to reach deeper to keep up the fight. Maybe a loved one or upcoming life event keeps us going. Otherwise we rely simply on only our “will to survive”. Regardless of motive, the important thing is that we just keep trying.

Recently, I’ve been struggling with motivation. My workouts have been sporadic and not well thought out. Consequently, my energy and strength are down and my oxygen use is up. To be honest I’ve been lazy. This is not my norm. Usually I’m running at 110%. My first instinct is to blame CF and think maybe it’s time for antibiotics or other medical intervention. But a trip to my pulmonologist revealed that my lung function is stable and I’m doing relatively well. This trip brought me to the realization that it’s time for ME to make MYSELF feel good. It’s time to get back the “eye of the tiger” and get serious.

So I recently started a six day a week exercise program. My program includes yoga, pulmonary rehab, and weightlifting. I made several spreadsheets (yes I’m an accountant by trade) to chart my progress and keep me on track. It’s been over a week and already my energy level is up. I’m also sleeping more soundly. My muscles are tightening and my lungs are loosening.

Ask yourself if you’re doing all that you can. If not don’t feel bad. Recognize that maybe you need a mental holiday from it all once in a while. However, don’t stay on that holiday too long. Rocky didn’t quit and neither should you. Rise up to the challenge of our rival CF!