Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.
I’m from Michigan and lived/worked there my entire life until 3 years ago when my youngest child Jacob decided to attend the University of Alabama! My wife and I retired from the State of Michigan and made the big move to Tuscaloosa. I “unretired” and back working full time for UAPD. My wife and I have three children and one beautiful granddaughter Maddie!
What were some challenges or obstacles you encountered during your wellness journey?
In 2016, I was diagnosed with leukemia. It wrecked my world. I had my dream job with the state of Michigan as an investigator for the Absconder Recovery Unit working with the U.S. Marshals on an amazing violent crimes task force call D.F.A.T. (Detroit Fugitive Apprehension Team). And then my world fell apart with my diagnosis. I fought my biggest fight and beat the odds. I went from 210 pounds of physically strong to 120 pounds of weakness who could not open a bottle of water or walk a flight of stairs. After my bone marrow transplant, I decided I was not going to let cancer win. With my family and friends support, I started my journey back to me! I got back in the gym with 5 pound dumbbells and the treadmill each and every day pushing myself to win. After many ups and downs, I beat all the odds and went back to work for my dream job. And it was because of my physical well being and my desire to win.
Which wellness practices or habits have you incorporated into your routine?
I work out at the gym almost every single day because I know of the importance it provides me. I get outside and walk my dog a few miles every day to help relax and enjoy life. You can’t take life for granted because you never know when something like cancer can happen. So get out and enjoy life everyday.
What specific wellness program has had a positive impact on you?
Exercising and pushing mind and body to the limit of wanting it more! Getting in the gym makes you want to do better. The gym is my favorite hobby and my true addiction. I encourage everyone to do it.
How has your wellness journey influenced your daily life, including work, relationships, and overall well-being?
Wellness makes me happy and ready to take on the challenges the world throws at me. I encourage everyone to get in the gym because the doctors at the hospital told me, I won my battle because of my well-being and determination to win. I saw too many people give up and let cancer win and sadly lost a few friends.
What changes have you noticed in energy levels, focus, or other aspects of your daily routine?
I have 100% more energy when I stay on a workout schedule and it gives me the extra boost to get through the day compared to the times when I’m off my workout routine.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their wellness journey?
Determine what you want to achieve and what changes you need to do to achieve these goals and objectives. Do your research and ask others in the gym what they do to get there. I still watch and “steal” different routines from other people to change up my routine. I like to help others and try to encourage them to be better! The internet is great to learn and come up with ideas for workouts. Example 5 minutes on the treadmill and then make it 6 minutes tomorrow! Ask questions if you don’t know and do the exercises correctly !
How do you plan to sustain your well-being and continue growing in the future?
I’ll be in the gym for the rest of my life! Everyone has at least 30-45 minutes a day for “me”, you just got to want it.
What was the last random act of kindness you did? (i.e left a kind note, volunteered time, gave a compliment, shared homemade treats, etc.)
Working with UAPD, I make sure I encourage the students every day to be the best person possible. Goal for their goals and dreams.
