Commentary: Committed To "The Game"

As I set forth to what is looking like an exciting and productive first quarter of 2023, I have to be realistic. My goals may be coming into place, but I also have to face a few challenges towards accomplishing them. 

In a recent social media post, I parsed out my thoughts on what lies ahead in the immediate timeframe. This, while looking back at what transpired last year to arrive at this point. 

Still, I remain determined to fulfill my goals and my obligations to this work. That’s what keeping me in “the game.” 

Let me update you on where I’m at…

Health-wise, my left foot is fine. I'm over the fact that the left big toe is no longer there. 

I became more comfortable with the absence of my big left toe was from watching Shannon Sharpe’s podcast “Club Shay Shay.” He had University of Colorado Football Head Coach Deion Sanders (also known as Coach Prime) on to talk about everything that has transpired since becoming a collegiate coach. Recently, Sanders had a surgical procedure, which induced a series of blood clots. The result was the amputation of two of his left toes.

The opening sequence of the podcast showed Sanders’ left foot post-amputation. I admit that his foot healed better than mine. Yet, it also gave me some ease in my mind that I can move forward after my own procedure and not worry about the change in the shape of my left foot. 

While my left foot is fine, I still am dealing with my cinched spinal cord issue at my neck. Let’s just say it is literally and figuratively a pain in the neck. I still have days where I would run out of energy above my neck after trying to exert myself standing up and being upright for an extended period of time. 

I have no problems driving or doing shirt stints of photography and other quick errands. Just sitting down helps resolve the lack of energy from the neck up. 

While dealing with my health issues, I am considering my options when it comes to planning future events and other work opportunities. Simply to make my job easier while delivering at the highest level. This while proving that I am able to do the job with my colleagues. 

I inquired about mobility devices for the Chicago Auto Show media days next month. Let's just say I will work the show in a wheelchair for the most part.  After all, there's at least two million square feet to cover and this will help ease the workload on my body. 

Overall, it is just a matter of "taking it easy." Events like the Chicago Auto Show or the sporting events I will work at for the magazine are physical affairs. I cannot say "no" to them because of my neck or anything else. 

In turn, I will not be shut out of not participating in these events – including travel opportunities and evaluating new vehicles. This is about proving my worth despite some health issues. 

Call me a masochist, but I enjoy the opportunities given to me to deliver stories for you. That's what I do best.

Simply out, I love what I do. I love doing this. I love the challenges the media business continues to give me. 

All photos by Randy Stern