This month we have some good news

Starting off with the good news, we’re happy to report that Dave Draper, the famed Blond Bomber of bodybuilding, has made a super recovery from quadruple bypass surgery (see News ‘N Views, April 2007 issue). Dave underwent the serious surgical procedure in February, and some three weeks later was back in the gym! Of course, the initial sessions were strictly of a rehabilitative nature, but from being barely able to taxi down the runway, the Bomber is once again airborne and our prayers are with him as he gradually soars higher and higher.

Dave is a former Mr. America, Mr. World, and Mr. Universe, one of the nicest guys of the Iron Age, or any age, of bodybuilding, and a prolific and talented writer. His free weekly newsletter at www.davedraper.com is filled with fact-not-fiction information on training and nutrition, presented with wit, wisdom and humility. Dave is also the author of “Iron On My Mind” – a compilation of some of his best columns and “Brother Iron and Sister Steel” – a delightfully written book that at once encompasses and transcends the world of bodybuilding; if you have a question about training or nutrition, chances are it’s in this book.

Also on the good news front, Dan Lurie, bodybuilding pioneer, publisher of Muscle Training Illustrated and founder of the World Bodybuilding Guild (see David Robson’s interview with Dan in the SOUND OFF column, April 2007) was inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and Museum on April 29th. Congratulations to Dynamic Dan for a well deserved honor.

And now for the sad news:

We received the following email from the official website of Reg Park, multiple Mr. Universe winner, one time best built man in the world as well as being one of the world’s strongest men, appeared in the movie Hercules, and inspiration to thousands of people around the world, including Arnold Schwarzenegger.

“We sadly inform all the thousands of family, friends and fans around the globe that Reg Park, The Legend, has been diagnosed with metastatic melanoma and we are told it is untreatable.

Even during this extremely trying time, in a way typical of Reg, he is concerned for each and every one of you, and he is optimistic.

He is now so glad and feels blessed to have his immediate family around him, and with all of us he is positive. We knew that he was an icon but only now have realized the immense love and influence he has had on thousands of lives. The support through phone calls, emails, visits and postings has been overwhelming.

Reg is currently undergoing radiation treatment and is exploring all other avenues possible.

The gym where Reg has been training himself, the other trainers, patrons and his clients over the last 15 years have sent messages and enquiries about his well being. His popularity has transcended people of all races and creeds - a tribute to Reg, known as The Legend.

He has walked the talk and lived life to the fullest, his way, and for that he will always be remembered as a true Legend.

In a tribute to Reg, his son Jon Jon, now based in LA, will be calling his new gym the Legacy Gym, to continue the legacy of transforming lives positively and continuing The Legend. His daughter Jeunesse will be forming the Reg Park Legacy Foundation to assist the many who cannot afford to have access to physical training to improve their quality of life.

Reg is a man who never compromised his principles or beliefs. It takes some thinking to realize what he achieved. Can you imagine any other world champion in any other field regardless of who they may be, and without disrespect to any, winning a world title three times over 14 years and then coming back five years later after his final victory and competing on an unleveled playing field, with those 21 years his junior, and still placing respectably in the top 3.

Reg is known to his family and to all others who know him as a REAL MAN. He recognizes that we create our own reality and set our own life paths, he is a deeply spiritual man who loves life and especially rejoices in nature, a giving man who has helped so many.

Whatever you believe, power of prayer or positive thought, give a moment to the great Reg Park, our father, grandfather and Mareon’s loving husband. Now each day will be another day we have to be with Reg and keep him as comfortable in his family as we can while he battles against this terrible affliction.

Even though Reg and the family may not respond to everyone’s attempts at contact, this does not mean we do not appreciate and recognize your love and support. Not only does it mean the world to Reg but also to us, his family.

We apologize for being somber while informing you of this. We know that Reg has been positive throughout his life in everything he has done and continues to do and always wants the same for all his family, friends, clients and fans. Thus we leave you with the message that Reg has always impressed upon us- live every moment to its fullest and cherish every breath of life.”

The Park family

Our prayers and best wishes go out to Reg Park and the entire Park family.

www.naturalchampion.net