He fights health challenges to get back on Harley

Herbert Head has been receiving care from his ex-wife, Carol.

“I had a lack of oxygen going to my blood. After I fell three times, they loaded me up and took me to the hospital. I was on a ventilator for two months.

“Whew, it’s been a rough time. I told them to just let me die. I was bedridden for about 10 months. My thyroids were real low, so I gained weight like crazy. I got to up to 380 pounds, but I’ve lost 150 so far.

“Actually, I’ve been blessed since they put this trach in my throat to help me breathe. The only problem is that now nothing tastes the same. That’s probably good in some ways because there aren’t a whole lot of things I enjoy eating anymore. Like Blue Bell rocky road ice cream. I used to love that crap, but I don’t like anything chocolate now. I also love fruit, but now none of it tastes any good.

“I’m starting to get up on my feet again with the walker. My main goal is to get back on my Harley. I love riding that thing. You heard of people taking Xanax because they’re stressed out? My Harley is better than any medicine. You get on that thing, and 15 minutes later you’re just as calm as you know how to be. I’m trying to get better so I can enjoy that feeling again.”

— Herbert Head