I have to say, starting this blog – I was a bit reluctant; putting this information out is very personal and it seems very self-centered at times. But, I have to say the initial response from those who have commented and contacted me following my initial posts has been awesome. My goals in communicating this information are to keep those family and friends who are interested in my condition updated, without pasting it all over social media (which is mostly dogs and football), and to share any information I have on this so others can benefit and share too.

This has been a surprise to me.  As I’ve said before, I knew I was fat – but I never thought it was killing me.  I’m human, and I have to admit this has scared me.  I’m afraid of what each test, each cramp, each image, each moment where I have a sick or sinking feeling means.  Am I doing too much, am I doing “not enough”, is this normal, do I need to see the doctor – it amplifies anxieties of what was already an admitted hypochondriac.  So bear with me, blogging helps.  Please understand that I’m indescribably grateful for my family and friends that are my sherpas through this uncertain time.  I’m grateful to discover the patience of everyone around me that can tolerate my insecurities and mood swings as I deal with the challenges ahead, especially my wife!  I’m grateful to understand and discover I’m not in this alone.  What a wonderful discovery.

To continue, MASH, or fatty liver disease is a slow progressing disease – and a silent killer.  Being fat (obese) is a national epidemic, and one only has to stroll through the aisles of a supermarket or watch a few minutes of commercial television to understand why.  Understand, I’m not being judgmental, just realistic.  We are constantly bombarded with food choices and tempted by delicious diversions that, if not taken in moderation, is slowly killing us.  Fatty liver disease is one of the most undiagnosed diseases, and is usually not identified until it’s too late to prevent recovery.  There are innovations in treatments all time, but they are costly, and hardly accessible to everyone that needs them.  So for yourself, and your family, prevention is key.  Everyday I am exposed to more and more healthy options for diet and lifestyle that I didn’t know about before.  Take a little extra time to read and understand nutrition facts for what you are putting in your body, because the old saying is true, “you are what you eat”.   I’m now an advocate for a plant based diet, the benefits are obvious and can prolong your life, but not only prolong life, but improve quality of life.  Think about it – diet, a good diet – contributes to healthy cardiovascular, mental, and metabolic health.  It’s never too late to embrace a healthy diet and lifestyle, so get started as soon as you can!  LOVE LIFE!