This was written by a student – a keen hill walker – after an early lesson describing their experience of walking before and after an early lesson – and looking back at what they had written:
“I remember I was in Dartmoor climbing a Tor, probably Hay Tor. When we got to the top we both had tears in our eyes from the delight at me making it without a struggle!
“I think it says everything that needs to be said about the impact of AT on my life. I remember when I wrote it that “enjoy the view” was not just talking about the view up the hill but my view of life and my health. Interestingly our son was conceived 2 months later!!”
Poem
BEFORE
Fearful
Anxious
Wanting to rise to the summit
But knowing my body will fail me
Take a few steps
And a few more
Pulse racing
Heart hammering
Juddering
Stops.
I stop.
Frightening silence inside
Then judders into life
Hammering
A few more steps
Exhausted breaths
Pain tight around my chest
Down my legs
Heart about to explode
Will myself to go on
Reach the top
And collapse in a pulsing heap.
AFTER
No fear
No anxiety
Knowing I will rise to the summit
Confident in my upright body
Slowly take a few steps
And a few more
Steady paces
Heart gently pulsing
Beat
After beat
I carry on
Step after step
Rhythmically climbing
Up, up
Reach the top
And enjoy the view.