I have struggled with my weight most of my life... From the age of 14, I have been heavy, even before then, I was bullied all my life. My height, my nerdiness, my weight... I was beaten up and mentally screwed with almost on a daily basis, by all types of people. The jocks, girls, even other "smart" students. It always seemed like I never fit in anywhere. Even as an adult, I always felt alone, no matter where I was or who I was with. I felt like there were people laughing at me.
About 7 years ago was my breaking point. I was going to do the unthinkable. I stood on the subway platform, right at the tunnel where the train comes in, and stuck my head out, waiting for the train to slam into my head so I can end it all. But, something pulled me back and the train missed me by inches. It was that moment, that started the "rebirth", if you will...
I joined a gym, starting at nearly 360 pounds. I went in the early morning, so there would be very few people there, and I worked at it. I would start walking home from work (over 2 hours). I wanted to do anything I could to start feeling better, but even these things did not keep the taunts, the mean spirited words away... from the two guys in the gym whispering thinking I couldn't hear, "look at the tub of lard..." or the carload of teenagers pulling up beside me while walking on the sidewalk shirtless, laughing and spewing out name after name, or the beach volleyball players joking about the "beached whale"... it hurt, I almost quit, but I kept at it. There are days that I struggle, but I continue on...
Today, I am under 280 pounds, I am much stronger and healthier than I have ever been. I have completed a Warrior Dash, a Spartan run, three 5Ks and one half marathon and most importantly of all, I have become a personal trainer myself, so that I can help anyone that feels the way I used to feel... knowing what they have gone through, I want to help people become healthier, stronger, and happier about themselves.
I am also now putting together an inspirational seminar with many inspiring speakers including professional bodybuilders, fitness competitors and MMA athletes. Check it out at facebook.com/groups/daysofinspiration