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Off-Topic Introduction

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jrosto

Level 1 Valued Member
Hi, my name is John and I've been reading the forums and learning for a couple of months now. The information I have gained here has been invaluable, and I appreciate it. Now that there is a new forum design, it is time I stopped lurking around and introduce myself.

I am 53 years old, and was very much out of shape. Until January of this year I was living with a debilitating lung disease called Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. I was on supplemental oxygen (up to 10 lpm for any real activity) and the disease was progressing rapidly. On January 1st I received the gift of a bilateral lung transplant. My physical recovery started with simple activities like standing without assistance, walking, and learning how to breath normally again. Once I could walk, I started physical therapy. From there the transplant team approved my using very light exercise bands, then 10 lb weights, then push ups from the kitchen counter. In June I was released to begin a slow pull up progression, and in early July was released to exercise as I saw fit as the team now trusts my judgement.

I learned about kettlebells on another forum, and found S&S on Amazon. Purchasing that book may have changed my life. I slowly, and very carefully followed Pavel's instruction on developing a swing and a TGU. I did my first set of swings with weight on July 25th. It was only 20 lbs, but I had to take care of my chest. My first TGU with weight was on July 28th with 15 lbs.

Today I did three Two-handed sets of swings with 20 kg and four One-handed set with 16 kg. i also did two sets of TGU with 16 kg and 3 with 25 lbs. To date I have progressed slowly as I have been making triple sure I do not cause any damage to my chest. It wasn't that long ago that I was opened up like a clam.

My largest concern was transitioning to a One-hand swing. I used the instructor locator and found a certified SFG here in the DFW Metroplex. I set up an appointment with Kris and he did a great job of helping make small tweaks to my form and swinging one handed. My progression from here on out will be more along a normal track. I am confident in my form and strong enough to really focus on owning the Simple phase of S&S.

The book (S&S), the videos, the blog, the forum and Kris have all worked together to help me to honor my lung donor by living to the best of my ability.

Now I can go back to lurking and learning and following my new motto... Repeat Until Strong!
 
John, a big Welcome to StrongFirst and to the Forum.

-S-
 
Wow, what an amazing intro! It does seem that S&S would provide a healthy stimulation for your chest and lungs. And it sounds like you are going about it just right. Hope to hear more as you continue.
 
AWESOME... WELCOME John! Happy to have another DFW resident joining the StrongFirst Family.
 
Thanks Karen; If we are having a mild flu season, I'll see you in December, if not it'll be at a Texas class next year.
 
I look forward to meeting you hopefully in Dec or maybe even the Jan cert.
 
Just got back from a session with my SFG, makes me look forward to a full day even more.
 
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