Beyond the Bypass

Life and Motorcycling After Heart Surgery

By: Nick Adams

Narrated by: Nick Adams

When you’re standing on the edge of the abyss, health failing, the idea of being sliced open down the middle for heart surgery may not seem terribly appealing, but most people agree that it’s probably preferable to the alternative.

Despite a lifetime of healthy outdoor activity and a diet no worse (or better, for that matter) than the next man’s, in 2017, at the age of 66, Nick found himself under the knife for triple bypass surgery. Would this be the end to hiking adventures and long motorcycle trips to remote parts? Not a chance!

Recovery from open heart surgery is a long, slow process. But with plenty of help, some dedication, lots of careful walking, and heaps of good luck, it is possible to return to a fully active life.

Although the first part of this book describes Nick’s experiences with CABG (coronary artery bypass graft) and his eventual return to doing those things he loves, it is also a motorcycle and hiking travel book. The later chapters describe some of his explorations in Canada and the UK and adventures in motorcycling since his recovery.

If you are having, or have just had CABG, hold on to the belief that there is light at the end of the tunnel. And when you are able to return to the activities you enjoy, they will seem more worthwhile and precious than before.

©2018 Nicholas Robert Adams (P)2020 Nicholas Robert Adams

good listen

Very happy to get hear about the benefits of riding the Convert. oh and glad to hear about the author's. successful recovery.

Bollocks to the Scalpel, Back to the Saddle

Now, hold on! Don’t be disheartened (no pun intended) thinking this book is all about someone suffering through major heart surgery and the long road to recovery—because that’s not the case. Yes, the subject matter hits close to home for men—and women—of a certain age who suddenly find themselves facing challenges they never imagined back in their twenties. And even if you’re as squeamish as I am, Nick’s brief description of the surgical process is just that—brief.

The real heartbeat (oh… there I go again) of this book lies in what comes after: the travels, the reflections, and the sheer will to get back on the bike—literally and figuratively. The adventures that follow are brimming with life, humor, and perspective, written in that clean, steady voice that makes all of Nick Adams’ storytelling such a pleasure.

Nick proves that, much like his 1972 Moto Guzzi Eldorado, he too can be kept running—with a bit of titanium wire, a touch of superglue, and the right people working the right tools.