Richard Chow: Joy and Bantering

In the wake of a life-changing diagnosis, a confounding invitation from Richard Chow’s doctor ended up providing a pathway forward.

I still held out hope that the tremors in my left hand were innocuous. I stood in the shower, gazing at my hand. I pressed it against the wall; the tremors stopped. Maybe I remained in control of my own destiny. Two hours later, a neurologist confirmed my Parkinson’s diagnosis, thrusting me through the looking glass into an uncertain world.

After reaching out to close family and friends, I called my cardiologist. For three years, he had listened as I insisted that something was wrong. He seemed relieved, as there was now clarity on the medical course of action.

As the call was ending, my cardiologist invited me to play nine holes of golf. I could not imagine anything more incongruous in that moment.

I often reflect back on that invitation – now, almost ten years ago.

I had no affinity for golf. I had been a competitive triathlete. The disease has changed this. These days, I fear swimming because of the risk of cramps. The last time I rode my bike, I fell sideways on a busy street. When I try to run, I feel like a tin man.

Golf is my main sport these days. My game has not improved at all. But, I remain motivated to walk several miles on one of the beautiful public courses in San Francisco. Even a lousy round cannot take away the joy of being outdoors, bantering with friends, and enjoying the moment.

My cardiologist knew that my world had not ended with my Parkinson’s diagnosis. I had much more to look forward to, including raising my two young daughters. It would take some time for me to realize this. His invitation to play golf represented an initial step forward to a new normal that did not preclude joy.

In times of adversity, individuals like my cardiologist always seem to emerge. Their compassion impacts my life journey in a positive, everlasting way. Maybe, I need to thank them, allowing them to realize their stature as my true guardian angels.

I draft a letter to my cardiologist expressing my profound gratitude. I have many more letters to write.

With a Perspective, I’m Richard Chow.

Richard Chow advises on investment opportunities focused on sustainability. He and his wife live in the Bay Area and enjoy spending time with their college-age daughters.