top of page

I feel blessed every day of my life

  • deansimpson7
  • Jun 9
  • 2 min read

(Left) Hot-air ballooning with my wife Colonel Wendy Walters. (Right) Looking a bit apprehensive as I prepare to bungy jump.
(Left) Hot-air ballooning with my wife Colonel Wendy Walters. (Right) Looking a bit apprehensive as I prepare to bungy jump.

BY COLONEL RODNEY WALTERS

For two-thirds of my life, I had no reason to consider men’s health as something to talk about or be concerned about. I had gone through four major motor accidents, climbing trees and falling from great heights and living to tell the tale.


I loved life and took great joy in exploring exciting experiences, such as abseiling, bungee jumping, parapenting (hang gliding and paragliding) off Queenstown’s Mountain, hot-air ballooning, crashing into goal posts on landing, skydiving, snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, water skiing, long-distance driving, and more.


Other than aches and pains that came through those endeavours, very rarely did I give any thought to my health.


Twenty-three years ago changed all that!


I had finished a wonderful Easter Celebration weekend in Brisbane and then travelled back to Sydney.


Within four days, I was in hospital, being told to get my house in order.


I had prostate issues that started a five-year journey of oncology and urology tests and reviews.


I had claimed healing from the Lord, and by those who had prayed for me and laid hands on me.


I rarely talked about this, not because I was ashamed, but because sadly, not all my friends and acquaintances had such healing.


I’m a realist and somewhat pragmatist, and recognise that, as I write this, some men will think that would or could never happen to me.


Since then, I have had regular health checks.


Colonel Rodney Walters.
Colonel Rodney Walters.
“I have also been able to serve in corps and remote or overseas appointments with a confidence that, although I may not feel I deserve it, I am blessed with each day of my life.”

Men’s health remains a global concern, and each of us needs to undergo regular check-ups with a medical practitioner.


There is no shame in recognising we are human and that our bodies are different from others.


Talk with partners/friends! Don’t be surprised if they also have concerns.


We are unique, yet also very similar in many ways.


I thank God that when the doctor told me to get my house in order (prepare for the worst), I already had a relationship with my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.


I had the assurance of the Lord’s presence with me as I took each day.


I love my Jesus, I love life, I love my wife and family and am incredibly thankful for a Lord who sees, knows and can be trusted with all I am and care for!


I’m not finished enjoying life, just as I’m not finished ensuring I maintain quality men’s health.


Try it!


*Colonel Rodney Walters is the Territorial Communications Secretary



For more information, go to:

 

bottom of page