How RVing extended my life and made it better

 

Accepting the keys to our new Roadtrek 210P, December 2013

Our RVing journey began in October 2013 when we rented a Class B in Las Vegas and used it to tour Utah's National Parks.  This led to treks of about 6,000 miles each year and the establishment of two "lily pads" for longer stays; one at the eastern shore of Lake Michigan and the other in Tucson, Arizona.  I've approached each trek, short or long, as possibly the only time in my life I will do it and the one opportunity I have to visit each location.  As a consequence, I make the most of each.

One of the things about life is finding things that fulfill us, make us stretch, find companions, have a purpose and make a difference.  I like new experiences, too. RVing did that and more for me.  I'm one of those people who likes to leave things in better condition than when I found them.  Think of it as applying "no trace camping" to one's entire life. I also like to tinker and take on projects.  RVing is a perfect fit. 

RVing took care of all of the above and more.  After purchasing the Roadtrek, which has been our primary exploration vehicle, we purchased a 30 ft. travel trailer for a Michigan location and a 41 ft. 5th wheel for the Arizona location.  The Roadtrek allowed us to find the campground and resort with a lot of additional exploration.  I took apart much of the systems of the Roadtrek and have become very proficient.  The Roadtrek gave me multiple purposes and what I've learned I applied to our RVs in Michigan and Arizona. 

Summer in Michigan

Our "lily pad" in Michigan, ready for winter

Assembling the deck in Michigan

Our Arizona "lily pad"

We had reached a kind of equilibrium and were comfortable with our Michigan and Arizona "lily pads".  One was in a mega-resort with all kinds of activities.  Tucson has a lot to offer, too.  After covid fear receded we decided to resume our travel plans of about 6,000 miles each year.  Each year from 2013 to 2019 I reduced my working hours.  By 2022 I was remote working for about one month a year.  

However, things came to a halt in 2022 when I became gravely ill. I was diagnosed with an unusual, rare tumor.  It was an inoperable, deadly cancer with at best a 15% survival rate.  In the fall of 2022 we began planning how to deal with this, became permanent residents of Arizona and I sought medical treatment.  It didn't look good. 

When I was diagnosed with a serious illness, it became a new hobby (just kidding). My life's work and dealing with adversity had prepared me for this fight.  I was mentally ready to take it on, had the financial resources to relocate permanently and we knew where it was that we would domicile. That location would provide better medical care with less stress on my spouse.  Overall, I was in poor shape. In early 2023 my urologist suggested that “It might be best if Norm goes into hospice”. But I didn’t and decided to work my way back to a more “normal” life. At one point my radiologist marveled “You are made of stern stuff”.  It took more than two years and with the grace of God, here I am. Stable. That’s better than the alternative.

While undergoing treatment I did my best to live a normal life.  It was difficult. My weight had fallen from 170 lbs. to 135. At first, I needed a walker to get around. But I continued to do RV maintenance. As time went on, I progressed to a cane and finally was able to get around without such support. I frequented the gym at the resort to use the stationary bicycle, beginning with 5 mile trips.  As time went on, I increased the exertion level. 

While treatment continued G and I discussed future travel plans.  However, there needed to be some changes.  On change was our 5th wheel. I could not maneuver inside, and we spent a month in an ADA compliant room at the resort hotel.  The resort has RV areas and park models, affectionately called "candominiums".  It also has a section with manufactured homes and a section of condominiums.   Friends had been assisting us in finding a "home" on the property.  It isn't unusual for manufactured homes to be sold before the listing goes up. Location, condition and floor plan plays a part in this.  G look at several but was dissatisfied. Friends gave her a heads up about another.  She went to the real estate office and toured that home the day it was to be listed.  Excited, she and I talked about this, I hobbled over on my walker and viewed the place.  We talked for a couple of hours; it would be a financial stretch, but we tendered an offer, it was accepted and voila' we were soon to be homeowners. We put the site of the 5th wheel up for sale and did the same for the RV.

We were now down to two RV's!  

Arizona site ready for sale!

As I progressed from radiation therapy through chemotherapy, I began scheming about how to get back into the Roadtrek.  This wasn't possible in 2023.  However, by the time I was in immunotherapy and my stamina improved, this began to look like a real possibility. However, I did have two nephrostomy tubes and a compromised immune system to contend with.  I continued to take on more difficult chores, assembling furniture for the new house, taking on certain repairs and so on. It was a slow, difficult process.  There were setbacks, far too many to list here. Certain physical issues made it imperative that I be within a short distance of a bathroom!

Radiation Therapy Graduation Board - I had made it!

Chemo access prior to the installation of the port

In March 2024 we attended the FMCA RV expo at the Pima County Fairgrounds near Tucson.  We were with the AZ Roadtrek Chapter. This was local and we decided to do a short RV trek.  It was a trial; it was a success and got us out of the cobwebs.

March 20, 2024 - Pima County Fairgrounds

After months of immunotherapy and several nephrostomy tube exchanges I discussed travel with my oncologist.  I told him I wanted to live as near a normal life as possible.  Let's call it "a new normal".  He agreed that I could skip a session.  That opened the window for a 3+ weeklong trek.  At the appointed time we were off in the Roadtrek! It was a press because time constraints wouldn't allow a leisurely trip.  I did most of the driving, too.   We had been away from Michigan for nearly two years.  On arrival I nervously opened the trailer, half expecting to interrupt a menagerie of critters that had moved in during our absence.  But our trailer was pristine!  We did see a small problem with the roof and I contracted to have that fixed. 

2,000 miles one-way, August 2024

The trek was a success! Upon return to Arizona G and I immediately began planning a second trip.  In September we returned to Michigan.  I wanted to inspect the repairs and prepare it for winter. We had our final campfire on September 16, 2024.

Final 2024 Michigan campfire September 16

Today, I'm "stable" and we are planning our 2025 adventures.  I’d say working longer and RVing altered my life for the better, in many ways.  My twin died of medical issues 20 years ago, a younger sibling also passed of illness at 50.  My parents both died of illness at 70-71.  I’ve lived the life they didn’t have the opportunity to.  Perhaps I’m the outlier. Working and dealing with adversity may have prepared me for this fight.  Having the purpose of again RVing and everyone's prayers definitely spurred me onward. I don't know how long I'll be in this sweet spot, but I am enjoying it!

(C) 2025 N. Retzke

California "Bans" RVs

 

Well, the title is not quite accurate.  Effective January 1, 2025 California has put in place new emission rules, effectively banning the sale of most RVs in the state.  In total six Blue states have joined in banning motor homes exceeding 8,500 lbs. gross vehicle weight.  

California has certain emission requirements, and these have been extended to include RVs.  Other states joining this ban on RV sales include  Washington, Oregon, New York, Massachusetts and New Jersey.  Any RV sold must meet the emission requirements of the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

The Recreation Vehicle Manufacturers Association (RVIA) sent a long letter to California pleading for a review of the new rule. The RVIA stated:

“In 2023, motorhome manufacturers shipped a total of 5,898 motorhomes to California, as compared with the 134,956 Medium- and Heavy-Duty trucks and tractors sold in California last year....

Motorhomes represent only 11.8 million miles versus the 4.8 billion miles for medium- and heavy-duty trucks, making it obvious that an exemption for motorhomes will not have an adverse impact on environmental concerns.”

In fact, only the smallest Class B RV's will be permitted under the new rules; those with gross vehicle weight of less than 8,500 lbs.  I've concluded that California really doesn't like RVers.

What to Do?

As an RVer, I've made the decision to avoid spending my travel or vacation money in these states.  Partly because I can rent a pickup or similar vehicle in the state which exceeds the gross weight of my RV but skirts the rules. That is ridiculous as the purpose of these rules is clean air.  Typical political BS and virtue signaling.

Considering the high costs of gas in California, the crime, homelessness and filth I think my money is better spent elsewhere. 

Adios Blue states, I'll never miss you!

(c) 2024 N. Retzke

Back on the Road after nearly two years

2,000 Miles - Route 66!

Things can occur that make travel difficult or impossible. This post will be different and will be about how my life's plans were altered. In fall of 2022 I suspended trekking. This is a summary of my experience.  I became aware that I had a serious illness, and RV travel became impossible. However, after a long and difficult treatment I was able to resume trekking in late Summer of 2024. Treatment continues, but my medical leash is now longer and the risks are fewer. So, with doctor's approval we took a 4,000 mile round trip in our Roadtrek. 

We returned to our summer "cabin", which is actually a 30 ft travel trailer on a campsite in Michigan.  We had used this as a summer retreat. It is at the eastern shore of Lake Michigan and that location  allowed us to kayak on that lake, and to enjoy the farm stands, local restaurants, the Michigan wine country shoreline, and travel as far as the UP, etc. 

Our Michigan campsite

However, we had to suspend travel because I was diagnosed with an inoperable stage IV cancer.  It is a rare cancer, and only about 15% survive.  My hemoglobin (HGB) bottomed at 3.6 and blood infusions were necessary.  We relocated so I could get treatment, and a medical team was assembled.  In 2023 aggressive treatment began. It included chemotherapy, but the drug of choice was unavailable to me because of short supply and my age; it was being rationed to younger patients.  There were blood transfusions to raise my HGB to 7.0 (normal is 11.5-13.5), and chemo could not be administered, nor would I be released from a hospital visit if my HGB was below 7.0.  One doctor suggested I consider hospice care, but I declined.  Using a walker I was mobile, etc. so I wasn't ready for that. There were many sessions of radiation therapy, additional blood infusions, multiple cycles of chemotherapy and finally I began immunotherapy.  

I'll complete one year of immunotherapy in October. One of my kidneys was collateral damage and ceased to function properly.  I was given first one, then a second nephrostomy tube. These require replacement (exchange) every 2-4 months.  That was the end of water and other sports for me. The tubes make certain movement impossible, and any quick twists, bends, etc. tug at the sutures and could displace the catheter in the kidney. That happened, once!  Even stubbing a toe, as occurred today can be painful, if the sutures are pulled.  Bouncing in an RV or car seat can also be painful. 

Typical Nephrostomy tube Exits through the back

Nephrostomy Diagram - tubing exiting through the back

It has been a very difficult two years.  However, my doctors have been incredible.  There have been issues of course.  The disease is debilitating, and my body weight dropped from 170 to 135 lbs. Strength and stamina took a hit. I was on a strict diet. There were and remain some side effects to deal with. At one time I had a pseudomonas infection, and I've undergone seven hospital stays from a couple of days to a week in duration, as well as the many procedures. Each treatment can require a couple of hours, or four or more.  I had radiation treatments 5 days a week for many weeks.  My radiologist told me "you are made of Stern Stuff" as the dosage was increased. A port was installed for infusions; my body had a reaction to this, but I resisted removal, pending the outcome of cultures to determine if there was infection (there was none). There were four chemotherapy cycles; each cycle was nine treatments, one per week. I had reactions to the drugs, but overall, my reactions could have been worse than they were. I'm currently completing a year of immunotherapy.  Throughout I have attempted to avoid being a burden to anyone, but with limited success. I undertook mental exercises to assist me in dealing with this and facilitate healing. 

The financial cost for this has been staggering.  I'm fortunate that my insurance has paid for most of it.

The treatments have been effective.  My weight has recovered to 150 lbs., which my primary care physician tells me is acceptable for my height and frame Most recently I have been on a very short medical leash, with an immunotherapy infusion every other week.  This made travel difficult.  However, because of my response to the treatments it has been possible to occasionally delay an immunotherapy session so that one occurs every four weeks.  That interval permitted some travel.  MRIs and C-Scans do not currently detect the presence of cancer, and my blood work is good.  I'm "stable". However, it is likely there remain a few cancer cells in my body.

Throughout, I received a lot of moral support and prayers. I really didn't know how many people cared about me. I'm on the planet today because of the grace of God, many prayers, my spouse, my incredible team of doctor and nurses, my tenacity, and the assistance friends.  I had led an active lifestyle and dealt with an unusual amount of adversity over the years.  My doctors tell me that these things contributed to my positive response to the disease. I never thought those earlier problems would train me and give me the fortitude to deal with this.

 When the full nature of the disease was revealed, I told a doctor that I wanted the cancer (this "thing") out of my body, although it was inoperable. I had decided to do everything possible for myself, and to empower my medical team.  I reasoned that if they won, I won. I became an advocate for myself.  I studied the illness and became educated about it.  I asked questions when it was prudent to do so and kept notes and a photographic record.  

We had been living in a 41+ ft. 5th wheel, but that became unsafe and impossible to navigate using a walker. We lived in a hotel for a month while we looked for a ranch style house to live in. With the help of friends in the area, we found a suitable home. When we moved in, we purchased a bed and moved some lawn furniture inside.  We began with a clean slate.  The decision to purchase was very difficult, because we (my spouse and I) were dealing with the illness. The future was an unknown.

I progressed from a walker, to using a cane, to walking unassisted. I can take a walk of a mile or so, and I do use a stationary bicycle.  I no longer trust myself on an untethered one.  I've gained 15 lbs. and hope to gain more, although my primary care physician tells me my weight is good for my height and frame.  

We are waiting for the completion of this year of immunotherapy and hope we'll be able to travel regularly.  I've been striving to live a normal life, but I realize it is a "new normal" and may be short. It is likely I'll have the nephrostomy tubes for the rest of my life.  

Note: in March 2024 we drove 7.4 miles to the Pima County Fairgrounds for the annual FMCA RV convention.  I don't consider that to have been a "road trip".

(c) N. Retzke

Steersafe Steering Stabilizer

 

From Steersafe Inc. website  https://steersafe.com/

We didn't like the effort it took to keep the 210P from wandering.  We have had new tires installed, front end alignment and even the steering system checked.  So we were reasonably confident the vehicle mechanicals were okay.

However, it took some steering effort to keep the Roadtrek going straight.  Generally, on the highway, the driver needed to wrestle the steering wheel with very frequent input.  This led to fatigue and shoulder discomfort.  

I did two things to help the driver. 1- Add a thick steering wheel cover.  This reduced the gripping requirement. 2- Add a Steersafe (r) steering stabilizer.

After 5,000 miles, both G and I are in agreement that the steering stabilizer is a significant improvement and that much less effort is required. However, as is true with all things, you experience might be different.

The installation was simple.  I contacted Steersafe and arranged an appointment.  They came to our campground in Las Cruces, NM and installed the components in less than an hour.  (Note: There are different versions depending upon the vehicle. the photo above is not of the components installed on the Chevy chassis).

According to the website:

"How Does It Work 

Steer Safe is installed on the vehicle’s front steering arms and clamps on to the front axle. No welding is required. It’s simply bolted on. Steer Safe Stabilizer’s patented oscillatable fulcrum bar makes it the only true steering stabilizer on the market. It provides up to 400 pounds of preset tension on each front wheel working against any outside forces, helping to keep the front wheels pointed straight, even in a blowout situation. 

 Unlike hydraulic shock absorber stabilizers that hook onto a vehicle’s tie rod, Steer Safe offers protection from the front wheels to the steering gear box. No extra steering effort is required lessening driver fatigue. Maintenance is not required because Steer Safe is equipped with Delrin bearings which never require servicing."

For more information:

https://steersafe.com/

(c) 2024 N. Retzke

At the FMCA Pima Fairgrounds - Update 1

Our Roadtrek 210P at the Pima County Fairgrounds

Officially, 1,128 RVs are here!

(Note: This blog is best viewed on a PC, there is a list of topics on the right, visible by scrolling down)

Hello Everyone!  We made it to the FMCA International Convention at the PIMA County Fairgrounds in Tucson, AZ.  Nice weather and we were able to park with a group of Roadtrekkers.  We are members of the FMCA and the Roadtrek International Chapter.  Our scheduled arrival was on March 18th and this date was assigned by the FMCA.  With hundreds of RVs arriving, it is critical to stagger the entry dates, which are officially on the 18th and 19th. We have 30A hookup, with water and sewer connections nearby. It's a great location and we can walk to showers, etc.  We're parked on asphalt and get some shade, too. 

We had some difficulty getting into the group, but the FMCA staff at the fairgrounds were extremely helpful.  Our thanks to the staff and volunteers. 

Not every Roadtrek at the fairgrounds is parked with the group.  

Our Roadtrek group at the Pima County Fairgrounds

This is our first RV trek since November 2022.  We're having a good time and we hope to travel more in 2024.

Update 1 March 21

There is lots to do. We have attended coffee and donuts at 8am, the opening ceremonies, various entertainment, exhibits, some sessions including "Ask the Experts" which is about all things RV.  G attended the Ladies Luncheon (ticket required). We also went to the karaoke and took turns at the mike.  The astronomy group had set up telescopes and as it got dark we looked upon the craters of the moon, the cloud bands of Saturn and we could observe four of its moons. The Orien Nebula was a treat through an 11-inch Celestron reflective telescope.  We shared birthday cake with the Roadtrek Chapter president, too. Thanks to the many volunteers in their golf carts who gave us rides!  Nevertheless, we got a lot of walks in.   

Opening Ceremonies at Sunset

Comedian Mark Cordes

Sharing Birthday greetings with the Chapter President

Quite a Karaoke setup at the Cantina

Celestron 11-inch reflector telescope

G with the Celestron - it is quite large

Me using the Star Map (r) App to determine which stars and planets I was observing

(c) 2024 Norman Retzke 

Redwood Cypress 38BHR for Sale

Standard Floor Plan

We are selling one of our "lily pads".  We lived in it about 3-4 months of each year.  It was brought to the resort by the dealer in 2015 and has never been moved. It is a 2015 Redwood Cypress 38BHR. Circumstances (physical limitations) made living in it no longer possible.

 Currently at a resort in Tucson, AZ.  The site is covered and includes a shed with hot & cold running water, A/C and (2) 20A circuit breakers. Concrete pad except under the 5th wheel.

Retail Sheet

Redwood Cypress 2015 38BHR Factory explanation of Options 

"RESIDENTIAL CEILING FAN ADDED - Enjoy a cool and steady breeze on your next RV'ing adventure with the residential ceiling fan we have added to this Cypress fifth wheel by CrossRoads RV!

 * CENTRAL VACUUM SYSTEM ADDED - The Central Vacuum system we've added to this high class Redwood Cypress fifth wheel makes keeping your RV clean and easy! 

* WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM ADDED - Most parks and campgrounds do little-to-nothing to treat their water. The water filtration system we've added to this Redwood fifth wheel will certainly help!

* 30,000BTU A/C SYSTEM UPGRADE - For maximum cooling power we've outfitted this RV with a total of 30,000btu's of cooling power! That's more than double of what you'll find in the average fifth wheel! Ideal for extended stay camping in the hotter regions of the country!

* MAXXAIR FAN ADDED TO KITCHEN - Not only will the power ceiling vent fan we've added to this Redwood fifth wheel's kitchen help exhaust heat and smells from cooking, but a simple wall-mounted control panel means you don't have to get a ladder to turn it off and on or raise the vent lid! 

* HEAT PUMP ON A/C UPGRADE - For yet another way to keep your fifth wheel RV warm and comfortable in every room and every zone of its interior we've upgraded the A/C system to feature a heat pump!

* REAR BUMPER RECEIVER HITCH ADDED - If you want to add on a bike rack or something like a small RV cargo or accessory tray, then this Cypress fifth wheel by Redwood RV is perfect for you. We've added a 2" rear bumper receiver hitch for just that reason!

* OUTSIDE GAS GRILL HOOKUP ADDED - This CrossRoads Cypress fifth wheel by Redwood RV has been built with a propane quick-connect. This allows you to quickly and easily plug in things like RVQ Grills without lugging along a big heavy propane tank!

* CYPRESS PARKS PACKAGE - Insignia LED HDTV, BlueRay DVD/CD Player, Sound bar in living room, pre-wired for Winegard satellite system, LED recessed ceiling lighting, Carefree electric adjustable patio awning w/LED Lights................. Gold Collection furniture's premium dinete chairs, faux leather Visionary sofa w/Tri-Fold hide-a-bed, free standing dining table, iCool master bedroom mattress. 

* CYPRESS FULL-TIME LIVING PACKAGE - High gloss fiberglass, slam latch baggage doors, knro frameless windows, Falcon-Integrated-Technology's 12" to 10" I-Beam Drop Frame Chassis, Equa-Flex suspension, Falcon Axles, Roto-flex Pinbox, 4-Step Entry, Aluminum Wheels, E-Range Nitrofilled Tires, 50 AMP service, 90 amp converter/charger (dual coach batteries), heavy duty drawer glides, hidden hinge cabinetry, day/night shades in living area, night shades in bedroom, stainless sink with high-rise faucet, stainless steel appliance package, pre-wired & braced for a 2nd A/C unit, Washer & Dryer Prepped and ready! "

Factory Specifications sheet

Reverse Osmosis System

We made other additions, including ceiling fan covers, and we added a reverse osmosis system. Spare filter included. Waterdrop D6 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter, 600GPD, Under Sink Reverse Osmosis System, Reduce PFAS, 2:1 Pure to Drain, Tankless RO Water Filter System, Smart LED Faucet.

 (C) 2024 N. Retzke

Grounded

 

 

Part of a wellness package sent by my employer

In 2022 I discovered that I had a life-threatening illness.  Well, that put a crimp in our trekking.  We travelled from the Midwest to Arizona in December 2022 and became residents of that state in 2023.

Medical treatments became my primary activity.  At one point my hemoglobin was 3.7.  My primary care doctor couldn't believe that I could walk into her office.  Shortly thereafter I was in the emergency room of a hospital where I was administered two units of blood.

My life in 2023 has focused on dealing with my medical condition.  We never made it to our summer location, a Caliber travel trailer on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, but plan to do so in 2024.

Caliber at Michigan campsite

After achieving some medical stability, I underwent several surgeries, radiation treatments and then chemotherapy. I'll begin immunotherapy on October 30. How am I doing?  My radiologist told me that I'm made of "stern stuff".  However, it has been difficult, with about 17 units of blood administered since April, and numerous hospital stays and surgeries. After a recent surgery it was determined that I had sepsis with a pseudomonas infection. I've been on some serious antibiotics and am currently about 11 days into 13 days of taking cipro (Ciprofloxacin).  This necessitated removing my nephrostomy tubes and installing new ones. 

We are planning on resuming trekking in 2024.  We signed up for the FMCA's 108th International Convention & RV Expo Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, AZ.  This will be held March 20-23, 2024. 

We'll be selling our 5th wheel.  Our primary trekking RV will be via our Roadtrek 210P.

I found maneuvering in the Cypress to be difficult, so G and I decided to purchase a home in the resort.  This had been our long-term plan.  My sudden change in health afforded the opportunity to make this change. G had been monitoring available homes and friends in the resort alerted her to one that was about to come on the market. She compared it to several others that were on the market and decided it was the best choice.   

After we both looked it over, we decided to make a bid and voila' we are once again homeowners.  So it seems we are official Arizona residents. 

We are currently furnishing the home.  This has afforded the opportunity to do things over.  For example, we purchased a steamer-convection oven rather than a microwave.  The Roadtrek and Cypress have microwave convection ovens, but we decided the convection oven feature was more important. 

Steamer-Convection oven

I've resumed my financial writing and blogging, but I'm not sure how frequently I'll be blogging.

Note:  The resort we are at has been described as a "Mega-resort".  It has RV sites, Park Models for sale or rent, and homes.  Some RVers sell their rv's after a few years and move into a park model.  These are 400 square ft. or larger.

(c) 2023 N. Retzke