Finding Hope

Eric Herman

This is almost certainly the toughest column I’ve ever written – and probably the most important.

In past editorials, it hasn’t been unusual for me to share various forms of personal information, some of it about my family, some of it concerning my own health. I’ve been keenly gratified by the words of support I’ve received from colleagues and friends on those occasions, and I thank you here, one and all.

This is, I fear, another of those occasions, as I recently received word from my doctor that I’m experiencing a form of liver failure. It’s too early to tell exactly where this is all heading, but at the very least I face sweeping changes in my lifestyle. These issues have most likely brought on by a mélange of past behaviors, but it has been determined that genetics is a key factor as well.

I’m sharing this with you here to call attention to a simple, profound truth: A healthy life is a gift. We all know that our industry, the country and the world are facing extreme economic challenges, but none of us can afford to become so distracted by current struggles that we ever lose sight of what is most precious in our lives.

In my case, these medical issues have caused me to step back and take a hard look at myself and what is truly important. Like most of you, I’ve spent a lot of time in recent months worrying about the immediate challenges of daily life, but ever since I had my conversation with my doctor, I’m far more focused on taking care of my mind and body – and cherishing the health and wellbeing of those I love.

I am most encouraged by the fact that the most effective treatments for what ails me are all completely within my control: nutrition, rest, regular exercise and a sound, positive mental outlook. I am a changed man already.

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Through the past few years, we’ve published occasional features on the health benefits of swimming and aquatic exercise. In this issue, we’ve picked up that thread once again with the aid of Dr. Steven Blair, a lifetime researcher in the field of exercise. In “Swimming to Longevity” (click here), he discusses recent findings about mortality in men and how various forms of exercise increase the chances of living a long life.

It’s a tremendously important discussion and something we all should consider from both professional and personal standpoints. Given my own situation, however, I can’t help noticing the ironic poignancy in publishing this particular article in this specific issue. In many ways, I’ve caught myself approaching Blair’s observations less as an editor and more as a reader.

On all levels, there’s a wonderful, positive message carried within his discussion having to do with the fact that our industry provides consumers with venues for what is arguably the most healthful form of exercise and the keys to augmenting both the quality and the length of their lives.

For me as a longtime swimmer, right about now that’s the very brightest of all possible silver linings.