I had plans to see America from horseback. Then in October 2020, I had to have a complete ankle replacement or be confined to a wheelchair. There were complications and my days of riding were over. After healing, the good news was that for the first time since 1979, I was pain free. Things were looking up and life was good.

In 2022 I started having balance issues. My legs started swelling and my feet and legs started giving me problems. I was also diagnosed as a Type 2 diabetic. Then in January 2025 I was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy and a clogged lymphatic system. It is very painful and walking becomes difficult. Three months ago, it invaded my arms and hands. I can barely write and what I manage to write I can’t even read.

I made a decision to use a holistic approach to treat my ailments and it is working quite well. I have made good progress. The pain I am controlling with Vicks Vapo Rub and horse liniment and the diabetes I am controlling with apple cider vinegar. I just did a 3 mile hike without any problems.

The mountain is made up of 1.5-billion-year-old Precambrian rhyolite. When it cooled it fractured into polygonal columns that resembled honeycomb. The locals named the formation “Devil’s Honeycomb.”

Now with my balance issues, caused by the neuropathy, I probably couldn’t even sit a horse. I used to be able to ride a bucking horse for 8 seconds but now I couldn’t pass a field sobriety test stone cold sober. It is what it is. At least I am still on the right side of the dirt.

If I had a chance to do it all over again, I would have a plan A, B and C retirement plan. Thanks for taking the time to read my story. Always have a back up plan to get through the rough parts of the road of life.