New Rebel from WV

[sgowens]

Hello all.

After browsing the blog archives, I was inspired to join. Cutting straight to the chase.....I'm a 41 year old husband, father of three amazing boys, and a full time paramedic. I don't know when, or where, I lost myself, but I did...and in the process, my family has suffered considerably. I'm currently 90lbs overweight, I smoke too much, I love food waaaaay too much, and I work 4 24 hour shifts a week. Two years ago, I had heart attack number one. It was mild, and as a paramedic, you'd think it'd have been the perfect wake up call.

Not even a little.

So, after two years of reading, researching, etc., I realized that all the knowledge in the world is useless without action. I love my wife of 15 years. I live for my three boys. I love my career and my community. I can't stay on this path. I go to extremes, trying to stop smoking, poor eating habits, soda, etc., all while trying to workout and make life changes. Then after a few days, the change overwhelms me and I cave. So, I come to you, dropping all preconceived notions, ideas, and research, and ask a simple request.

Help me save my life. For my family, yes. But also for me. This is about ME this time. I want this change. I need it. Help me.

[Becoming-Bane]

Welcome to the community. Your kids would be a wonderful place to get some exersise. Spend some time out with them just having fun playing catch or something.  that can be a wonderful motivator. Or you could start jogging with your wife. doing things with people you care about makes it so much easier and more worth while.

[FutureMarine91]

Hey there and welcome!

 

We are here to help one another because we all want to get healthy in one way or another. Replace the sodas with waters, and remind yourself that smoking may land you in another emergency situation. Best of luck!

[Basement Cat]

Hi, Sgowens!

 

Hey, I'm an ex-smoker myself, and I think this site might help you: http://whyquit.com/

As for the other stuff: take it slowly. Don't try to do everything at once. One bad habit is hard enough to kick, but several at once, on top of trying to form good habits, is really hard to do. As the founder of this site said himself: Willpower is finite.

 

Take it one small step at a time, and even if you stumble or fall, you get back up and keep walking. One day, you'll be able to look back and see how far you've come. So hang in there! And if you need support, we'll be there for you!

 

Stay sharp!

[hawgsquatch]

Baby steps.

 

You have A LOT to be living for. Great decision to be healthier. Welcome.

[sgowens]

Thank you for the support! And yes, hawgsquatch, I do. Ironically, the company I work for just posted a 9 week weightloss/fitness challenge, with the winner receiving $100 bonus. Time to earn some cash...and a new life!