Born in 1967. 5'10" Not a big guy. I had asthma as a kid and played soccer. I ran recreationally in college but never entered a running race until 2001. The Susan Komen Women's Breast Cancer 5k. I would occasionally jog but nothing consistent. I would go months without exercising. I gradually put on probably 25/30 pounds since college which has mostly been soft tissue(fat) around my belly and other nifty places.
In 2011 I got serious about exercise as cholesterol became an issue.
I started running regularly and watching my diet more closely that is when I joined Fatsecret. I ran my first half marathon that year and dropped about 20 pounds. I have bounced up and down since that period.
In 2017, I had four months of strange ailments (temporary nerve damage in legs, swelling, weight gain, loss of appetite) until I was finally diagnosed with AITL Lymphoma. Six 3 week cycles of Chemo along with a Stem Cell Transplant in May of 2018 really helped me out. In that critical state I lost 40 pounds. I never lost the major fat deposits around my stomach and my diet switched to comfort and recovering health.
In 2019 I ran my first post cancer Half Marathon and in 2021 I ran my first ever full marathon in Chicago for Imerman Angels Cancer support group.
I have finally given up soft drinks and I am training at slower paces so that I can burn more fat when I run. This is the reason for my return to progress in losing weight since January 2022. Through it all the Lord is my strength and He has shown me that everyday is a gift and an opportunity to love and enjoy others.
I am hoping to be involved in more marathons and triathalon races (small ones).
I wouldn't be here without the loving support of my family (wife, sons, sisters, parents, friends)