As Rick Rickman approaches his 90th birthday, he reflects on how individual character greatly influences life at that age. Once passionate about golf, the former secretary for the Fiji Golf Association has shifted his focus to reading, writing, occasional painting, and enjoying drinks due to a knee issue that curtailed his golfing days.
Mr. Rickman’s foray into acrylic painting is infrequent, as he admits his interpretation may differ greatly from others’ perspectives. He shared, “I paint what I see, probably not what you see in the mirror,” emphasizing that his creative output is influenced by his mood.
His educational journey began at the London School of Printing and Fine Arts, which he attended after leaving school at 15, before serving in the Royal Air Force.
On the topic of longevity, Mr. Rickman jokingly attributes it to his diet, particularly his fondness for protein and wine. He advocates for a homemade health mixture of turmeric, ginger, and lemon, claiming, “Turmeric is magical.” He has been using this blend for over two decades to help monitor his health, particularly in regard to cancer.
Mr. Rickman is cautious about water purity, utilizing a triple-filter system to avoid aluminum toxicity, and humorously adds Irish whiskey or Scotch to his water on occasion. He also prioritizes the quality of meat, preferring to buy a whole sirloin from specific shops in Fiji and utilizes vacuum packing to ensure the meat ages well. “If you don’t have a vacuum packer, put it in a ziplock bag with some ripe pawpaw and leave it in the fridge for a week,” he advised.
While he does not identify strictly as an anti-vaxxer, Mr. Rickman has strong views about the COVID-19 vaccine and its potential adverse effects. He theorizes that a significant percentage of vaccinated individuals may suffer from myocarditis or blood clots within five years. He expressed concern over losing friends believed to have developed aggressive cancer linked to the vaccine.
Despite having contracted COVID-19 in 2021 without severe effects, he remains wary of vaccines, claiming he wouldn’t have taken them even if available earlier. He noted, “I am not anti-vax; I had more than my fair share in the Royal Air Force.”
With a critical view of the political landscape, Mr. Rickman hopes to witness the Fiji National Provident Fund being taken to court for actions against pensioners. He has publicly voiced concerns about the treatment of pensioners under previous governments, seeking justice for their grievances.
When asked about personal favorites in Fiji, he reminisced about Nadarivatu for its pristine environment and accessibility, and expressed his fondness for Vuda Marina, which offers delightful dining experiences. He also shared that at home, he enjoys cocoa seasoned with chili, relying on its supposed health benefits.
Having traveled extensively, Mr. Rickman finds it challenging to pinpoint a new destination within Fiji, having already explored many during his time on the Hotel Licensing Board.