Who am I and why am I important?

Who am I and why am I important?

I'm important because I am either a direct hit to the U.S. economy's bottom line or I am an asset to potential health insurance pooling rates.

Now change the "I" to "We."

As an advocate for better living and good health, it's time for a non-physician, non-fitness professional to address the needs of having an active lifestyle and expressing the need to live life to the fullest.

A couple of weeks ago, my family and I made our pilgrimage to Connecticut to spend Thanksgiving with my father and mother.  Dually, we surprised both of them with a party commemorating their fortieth wedding anniversary.  Towards the end of the evening, my parents slow danced which was pleasantly surprising (if you know my father you probably have a confused look on your face), but also allowed for a time of reflection.

You see, both of my parents are cancer survivors.  My father was diagnosed with prostate cancer and my mother with breast cancer.  Not too many people (myself and siblings included) knew of either diagnosis because my parents chose to discreetly address their issues, figure out a way to deal with the conditions and continue to live life with no interruption.

A lesson can be learned from my parents attitudes towards (there now) beaten conditions.  Many of us are defeated too quickly.  Let's be honest, choosing to live a healthy life is 90% mental 10% physical.  If we treat our health as a tangible, priceless object we will be able to improve a number of different aspects in our respective lives.  Rather than being in denial and just "waiting on the Lord" my parents stayed positive, sought treatment early, followed the orders of their physicians and continued to live life!

It is incumbent upon us to embrace life.  The good times, challenges, defeat and victories; love it all! Like my parents, I encourage you all to confront your obstacles, create an action plan and hold on for the ride!

Be inspired and treat your health as your number one commodity.  I hate to say it, but no matter how much legislation is debated or enacted, Health Reform starts with you!

Stay tuned...