I'm going to do this!

[pezjunkie]

Howdy all,

 

I'm Steve.  I live in Las Vegas but work all over the country.  I work in theater, tv, film, concerts and conventions.  I do everything from lighting to building sets and props to being a stagehand.  Therefore I need to be a Ranger.  Strong to build, fast to run around on stage, and endurance because jobs can last anywhere from 4 hours to 27.  

 

A little background for you.  At the age of 29 I had a second surgery on my right foot.  This surgery fused all the bones between my ankle and my toes.  I was told with physical therapy that I would be able to walk with a limp and and never be able to run.  For the first few months I was on bed rest and in a wheel chair.  Then went to crutches, walker, cane, and then walking with a severe limp.  As soon as I could I went back to work.  At 30 I went for a check up and was immediately called back to the doctors the next day after blood tests came back.  A combination of antibiotics and pain killers from the surgery and going back to a hard labor job where I worked outside in the summer in Las Vegas heat, my kidneys had failed.   I was told that it was extreme and at this time they were not sure why it was happening.  I was told that the outlook was not good, i should get my affairs in order and that I had about six months.  Telling my wife of ten years, my 9 year old daughter, my sister and my mom that I was sick and maybe not going to make it was the hardest thing I have ever done.  We did everything the doctors said. I saw every doctor and got second opinions on everything.  Finally was able to turn my kidneys around.  Eventually got to the point that I was allowed to start working out.  A year ago I decided to change my life.  I hated my job, I hated the way I looked and I hated the way I felt.  I left my job and started working in theater. I absolutely love it and should have done it years ago.  I started eating better and walking.  January of 2012 I weighed 330 lbs.  Even though I was told I would never be able to run, this summer I started running and recently started the nerdfitness beginners workout.  As of yesterday I weighed 240 lbs. I finally stopped smoking.  I can run/walk about 4 miles.  In two weeks I turn 34, guess that shows the docs.  

 

My goals for this year are an 8 minute mile and a handstand.  my life goals are to be healthy, happy and spend as much time with my family as I can because I know how quickly it can all come to an end.  

[Jakob Kopfeld]

Quite the Story you got there. Congratulations on overcomeing all that hardship, and taking a step in the direction of a healthier life.
I hope your stay here will be as delightful as mine has been so far.

 

 

 

Welcome to the Rebellion!

[Laureleye]

Good for you making a turn-around like that.  My sister was a theatre tech, so you're on the right road going with the Rangers.  Are you going to start with the Rangers, or do a stop-over with the adventurers first?  Either way - welcome!  If you need some help, just ask someone in your guild.  Oh - and of course start the challenge, even though it's been running a week. 

[pezjunkie]

Thank you guys.  i'm going to start as an adventurer until I can get strong enough to start conditioning for rangers.  one thing i've learned is to take things at a moderate pace.  I have a feeling that NF is going to lead to big changes.

[DaijobuKitty]

Isn't it a good feeling, to find a group like this Glad you're with us.

[Daddio68]

Amazing story friend! Grats on the already successful changes you've made and grats to your family for having you there! I look forward to seeing more of your success!!

[Emissary2Ornj]

Welcome aboard, and thanks for sharing your story. I think you'll find folks around here appreciative of the unique insight you've gained from your experience. I'm a newbie, too and have been impressed so far w/the community in general. Glad you're still around. All the best to you!