Catalyst

And what was it ? – simple! My nephews and a family BBQ

It was a sunny Sunday afternoon in July 2003 and the BBQ was at my brother’s house.  

Back then my youngest nephew was not yet 3 and the oldest was just about to turn 5 and all they wanted to do from the moment I arrived was play with their Aunty Melly –  they wanted me to chase them, play football with them, go on the trampoline and generally rough and tumble.

But I couldn’t do it

Amongst other things, my back was giving way, my knees were giving way, I had severe skin chafing and I could barely walk and talk at the same time.

To top it all, I looked over at my mother who was also severely obese and had so many health issues that she was registered disabled, in a wheelchair with swollen blistering legs and I clearly saw my future

I had way outstayed my welcome at the last chance saloon!

Not being able to play with my nephews left me bereft. 

BUT it was also what empowered me to acknowledge that I could no longer fight this fight alone.

I NEEDED HELP AND  I REALISED THAT THERE IS NO SHAME IN ASKING FOR IT

Let’s face it – even a top accountant needs a calculator and a team of people to do his job effectively.

And the job I needed to tackle ‘effectively’ – was ME!

The very next day I purchased a heavy duty treadmill and bike with a back support, that could cope with the pounding under my weight.

And I booked an appointment with a bariatric surgeon.  My journey had begun.