One year ago today...

BigDnSW

One year ago on this date, I came back from a serious but loving a** chewing from my MD. I was about 80 lbs. heavier, could barely walk, totally out of shape, and not feeling well in all areas. Well, I took Doc's advice and started the food journey with some barely being able to exercise routines for the disabled in my "chair". Yes, I am disabled...but not enough to eat myself to death. So, with the help from my amazing wife of 33.7 years (now) and the just sheer want to, I started that day a year ago--April 20, 2012. Later that summer, I was researching various foods to lower my sodium and cholesterol and wouldn't you know it, MFP found me. So, a week or so later I joined and found some amazing friends here.

Well, it is one year today. I now can walk again. I no longer need the "chair", my scooter, or my canes. I have lost a lot of weight since joining MFP, a lot of inches, and some old clothes. I am now over half way to my first weight goal and 70% toward my final goal weight. But, this isn't just about the weight loss...it's also about the gains. What have I gained in this past year?

1. A new respect for a healthy lifestyle.
2. A deeper love for life.
3. An appreciation for my wife who never quit on me on the days when I did.
4. Dear friends who never quit on me here at MFP.
5. Baggy clothes :laugh:
6. A deep heart of thanks for a merciful and graceful God who sustains me and did not give up on me either.
7. A big smile.
8. A deeper love for others and a bigger heart of compassion.
9. Laughter.
10. And, most of all, I have learned to love myself again in a healthy and positive manner without being selfish, self absorbed, or any of that other crap.

So, what did I give myself for my official non-MFP one year anniversary? MY FIRST OVER 1000 CALORIE BURN IN ONE DAY!

Yeah, shout it out to MFP and my friends. Yes, I still deal with chronic pain...but it ain't so bad. To finish, I will quote Dan Aykroyd in "Trading Places", "Let's go kick some butt!"

Thanks and Git R Done!!! :flowerforyou:

Dave

MelisRunning

YAY to you!!! You brighten every day to those of us who are privileged to be among your friends here on MFP. Congratulations on your 1,000 day~you are an inspiration to us all!!!

pmn55

What an encouraging post, yeah for you and yeah for your (our) merciful and gracious God !!

boatsie77

So much courage and so much love in your story--thank you for sending a message of hope to those out there who are needing inspiration to make it through another day on their journey to health. I wish you and your lovely lady peace, joy and heath.

rider72

Awesome.....great story, fantastic results. Good for you Dave!

b3kah5

Congratulations!!!! You truly have success!!!

appyspirit

What a great post! Thank you!

BigDnSW

Thank you all! Made the ending of my 1 year day the best.

monk789

Congratulations on a new life!!

Hadabetter

I've enjoyed your MFP friendship during the months since I joined. Your progress, determination, and attitude are inspiring. Thanks for putting up with my sarcasm!

CCusedtodance

Fantastic post! Congrats on your success and thank you for sharing your story.

keepongoingnmw

very touching story *snif*

tj1376

That is awesome and its nice to see how you can look back and see all the things, besides great health, that you gained through your journey.

loserlee123

Really great!

Shortie1965

great job and keep up the great work!!!

taylorckt1

Wonderfully inspiring post...thanks for sharing! Congrats on both the scale victories but more importantly the NSV's.

naterar

That is so awesome, you are a inspiration to us well.

wannabesexymama

This is so Fantastic! Keep it up you are doing GREAT and I hope in a year I am right here where you are now best of luck on your continued Lifestyle change!

JenniCali1000

Wow! You are so very inspiring!!!

katejkelley

Everyone on MFP should read this post! THIS is what it's all about! Thank you and congratulations on your achievements! :drinker:

samspencer1966

Congrats on your 1 year anniversary. You are an inspiration to us

tomwatso

Glad it has worked for you. Next month is my one year anniversary. I have lost 6 inches around my waist and 32 pounds since that time 5-18-12.

adeleinex

I'm so happy for you !
Very inspiring!

Strivingforhealth12

Awesome post. Congratulations.

grampajimmy

Congratulations on your decision to extend your life! I too was shocked when my doctor commented on my weight,(something he had never done before) So much so, that I joined Weight watchers that same day. Soon after that I was told about MFP, and started to compare the two. MFP won hands down! I am only 1/4 of the way to my ultimate goal, but already am having trouble keeping my pants up! That's a good thing!! I feel much better and am in it for the long haul.
Good luck and God Bless! Keep on truckin.......!

LadyTigressDiane

THANKS FOR SHARING !!!

*sniffle* it brought tears to my eyes ... keep up the great work!!

sklarbodds

Dang, what's my excuse...that I'm tired?!?!?

Great work man, you're inspiring!

Colbyandsage

Awe. Thank u for sharing! Great story!

BLady44

Congrats! Great great job!