Choosing narrowboat living extended man's life

A MAN WITH terminal cancer was given six months to two years life expectancy by doctors due to terminal cancer.

After his six-month chemotherapy regime he sold his house and moved onto a narrowboat, Janet Friend reports.

Outlived his prognosis

He tells that, after this new way of life, his doctors claim he has outlived his prognosis, predicting a life expectancy of at least five years.

Aged just 40, Tom Smith was 'mortified' when doctors diagnosed him with oesophageal cancer and was told his life expectancy was so short, so then changed his lifestyle by purchasing a 58ft narrowboat that was built 34 years ago.

His new lifestyle with his dog has enhanced his health and recovery, he being a much contented person, he telling:

"It has been the best decision I have ever made. It can be physically demanding because of the weather. There are always jobs to be done, but it is a very rewarding way of life and I absolutely love it. The simpler way of life and being involved in nature is a mindful way of life and it has allowed me the ability to travel.

Contributed to his recovery

It was in October last year he bought the  narrowboat which he found very homely and was the best decision he had ever made, and believes that his new lifestyle has significantly contributed to both his cancer recovery and mental well-being.

Despite enjoying the way of life, he tells there are challenges but it is a great way of life, with Tom addressing the misconception about costs associated with living on a narrowboat:

He remarks there are financial costs of living on a boat—it is not as cheap as people think.  But as to his future of his boat life, Tom told he can't imagine giving it up anytime soon.