Lifting my bike above my head, I posed for the camera. I’d just completed a six-day, 235-mile cycle, and while my body was exhausted, I felt elated. It had been my lifetime’s ambition to cycle the 185-mile Hebridean Way around Scotland’s Outer Hebrides and I’d done it, plus another 50 miles – in my 50s!
I’d loved cycling since childhood, and as a student nurse I biked to work every day. Once I’d qualified, it seemed harder to fit cycling around my irregular shifts, and when I became a mum of five, my priorities changed completely. I knew I’d got into unhealthy eating habits, relying on takeaways instead of cooking.
I have Asperger’s syndrome, and I found comfort in sticking to familiar routines and disliked trying new textures or flavours.
Making a change
With arthritis in my neck and spine, as my weight rose, the pain worsened. Working as a nurse became increasingly difficult and I ended up taking medical retirement.
This story is from the May 11, 2020 edition of WOMAN - UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 11, 2020 edition of WOMAN - UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
What's their SECRET?
Woman investigates how these stars are managing to age backwards
I've cried BUCKETS
Linda Robson on rehab, binge-drinking and her marriage breakdown
Phil and Steph back together!
They separated four years ago when he came out as gay live on This Morning.
The ROYAL INSIDER
PRINCE WILLIAM PUTS FAMILY FIRST
My husband's BATTLE TO BE A DAD
With a rare condition, could Jenna Greenaway's partner father children?
The dark side of PARADISE
Just how safe are our children when they decide to go travelling? Woman investigates
I'm still in SURVIVAL MODE
Kate Garraway on debt, the care system and why working 'really helps' her grief
Let's have an ADVENTURE!
Four women share the thrills of breaking out of their comfort zone
A short BREAK
It was just a few days away, but a chance encounter threw Kathy into turmoil
Dinner for ONE
Tasty ideas for solo dining that will leave you feeling satisfied