The Interview

I recently ran the Memorial Medical Center Cancer Awareness Run & Ride 10k in Modesto. When I crossed the finish line, I was so happy that I made it known to all the spectators that I was the fat kid who always got picked last in PE. The endorphins got me so giddy that I gushed to everyone about my story of how I was on the fast track to suffering a heart attack before hitting 40, and how I turned my life around. A very nice couple had overheard me and was very intrigued by my story, so they approached me and asked for my number. I remember thinking to myself, "that's odd, wouldn't an email address be better?" Nonetheless, I fumbled around to find a pen, but the gentleman said it wasn't necessary because he remembered my bib number. "Hmm. Bib number, that's what he was asking for," I thought. In any case, the couple congratulated me once again and moved on.

Fast forward three weeks: I received a call from Cheryl Casey, the Community Outreach Coordinator from Memorial Medical Center. Cheryl noted that the gentleman whom I had met is a physician at Memorial Medical, and he thought I would be a good candidate for the monthly local television show that the hospital produces called "The Cancer Report," a 30-minute program hosted by David Shiba, M.D., Medical Oncologist and Medical Director of Memorial's Cancer Services. She explained that my story of transformation would inspire others, so even though I am not a cancer survivor, the hospital was interested in doing a segment on me telling my story. I am all about outreach, so I jumped at the chance. The past year has been intense for me. Getting healthy is not easy, but I did it. I am living proof that the average Joe can turn his life around, and I want more than anything to reach out to those who are in the same shoes as I was a few months ago.

I headed to Modesto today film my segment. What a great experience it was. I am very much looking forward to the airing of the November edition of "The Cancer Report." I will keep you all posted on the date and time.