I can’t tell you exactly how many times I’ve started an exercise regimen, do well for a few days, and then give up. To top it off, after giving up I would feel extreme guilt about not exercising. I remember one occasion, many years ago, where I was gung ho about hitting the gym, stopped by a local gym, paid for an entire year, and only went twice.

In February 2009, I was miserable. I couldn’t get around very well. My health was going downhill rapidly. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and depression. Every time I would see the doctor, he would tell me, “Stephen, you have to lose some weight, or you’re going to die.” I was at my highest weight of 632 pounds. Yes, I was morbidly obese, and I was ashamed of myself for allowing myself to get so big.