Sometimes the most profound lessons come from the most difficult experiences.
Today marks what would have been my father’s 78th birthday, and his story continues to shape not only my personal mission but also my professional dedication to helping others prioritize their health.
Table of Contents
Importance of Health
When people ask me why I’m so passionate about health and fitness, it’s because of my dad. Not because he was so into it, but because his health began to decline when he was young.
I wish that he got to meet my kids.
I wish that he got to see what MyBodyTutor has become.
And I wish that I got to play with my dad when I was a kid.
Pain Into Purpose
I used to be bitter about the last part. However, I always channeled those emotions into doing positive things for myself and others.
I always promised myself that when I had kids, I’d do everything I could to be the best version of myself for them.
I refuse to ever say, “I’m too tired to play,” because it’s something I used to hear all the time.
Hardest Lesson of All
I learned a lot of things from my dad.
Unfortunately, the biggest lesson was that health is true wealth.
When I was in 7th grade, my dad had a heart attack.
Shortly after that, he had triple bypass surgery. Not long after that, he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
Seeing him during a heart attack had a big impact on me. Seeing him deteriorate mentally and physically throughout the years until he passed away was tough.
What We Can Control
Yes, there are things beyond our control like MS.
But there are many things within our control that impact our health.
My dad used to smoke two packs of cigarettes a day. He ate poorly and wasn’t active.
The day he had a heart attack was the last time he ever smoked. He also began to eat better and exercise.
The Wake-Up Call
Most people don’t think about their health until they don’t have it.
Then it becomes all they think about.
So, on my dad’s birthday, I encourage you to prioritize your health even if you’re too busy, too tired, and too overwhelmed.
We don’t find time for what’s important. We make time for what feels urgent.
But what’s more important than your health?
Conclusion
My father’s legacy isn’t just in the lessons he taught me through his struggles—it’s in the daily choice I make to honor those lessons.
Every time I choose to prioritize my health, every time I play with my children instead of saying I’m too tired, and every time I help someone else on their health journey, I’m carrying forward the most important thing he ever taught me.
Your health isn’t just about you. It’s about everyone who loves you, everyone who depends on you, and everyone whose life you have the potential to touch.
Don’t wait for a wake-up call to make your health a priority. Start today, because today is all we truly have.