Four years ago I had an event that changed my life. There were multiple news stations that covered my story. Here is the remaining post: http://www.chathamdailynews.ca/2012/04/19/doc-helps-save-life-of-wings-fan
I have Brugada Syndrome, a rare heart condition, and it almost killed me. I suffered cardiac arrest and was, for all intents and purposes, dead for about 3.5 minutes. My life was saved by some amazing people.
Before the event, I was exercising regularly. I was a bit overweight but not by a crazy amount. After the event, I blew up like a balloon. I was unable to get my heart rate up for exercise because I was having what I call “aftershocks” from my event. I did not want to weigh myself. I still have no idea how heavy I was at my peak. Eventually after getting back into an exercise routine I weighed myself. I was at 236 lbs. I dropped 20 pounds and got down to 216.
On August 16th 2014, I had another Brugada attack. Again my weight climbed, all the way back to 234 lbs.
In March 2016 I traveled to India for a Whirlpool event. In preparation, I thought I’d try to lose a little extra weight so I wouldn’t look so large. I was able to lose two lbs. before leaving. While in India my diet was different, but my mindset was the same: “I want to lose some weight while I am here.” During the trip I lost 10 more lbs. I was so happy with myself after arriving home that I decided to keep it going. I am now at 219 lbs. with a goal to get under 200.
After my Brugada attacks I felt weak and helpless. I did not feel like I could exercise and I thought I was just destined to be fat.
My biggest supporters were my wife, my friend Jeff Stoller, and the Whirlpool culture.
I have recently been getting positive comments on my latest photos. Family and friends have noticed a “glow” that I did not have before.
I’m not yet at my goal but I already feel great! I am VERY happy with myself and I have the confidence now that I can keep going. I am also thinking about getting back into an exercise routine after doing nothing for two years.
If you’ve been through a traumatic situation in your life, understand this: There’s something called Post Traumatic Growth. When you hit a hard time, which side of the fence will you fall on? Will you overcome or will you be defeated?
I continue to overcome a heart condition that has been trying to keep me down. It will be victorious!
Jason Ringman, St. Joseph, MI
March 29, 2016