Next project...fireman??

I have been thinking about this for a while now (about 4-5 years). I always said that if only I would lose weight, I could join the volunteer firefighters here in the Salem area. So, yesterday I was chatting with my wife and we were mentioning how great the fire department here is...They have a heavy community involvement! They have breakfasts and show up to a lot of events. In fact last week, my wife and kids were going to attend a dance recital and showed up too early. So they decided that they would walk up to the library and check out some books. Well, they passed the fire station and they were having a bunch of grade schoolers there for a field trip. One of the firemen pulled my wife and kids in with the "bigger" kids and let them participate and even let my son (4 years old) spray the hose. It meant a whole lot to all of them. Anyway, to get back on track, my wife was telling me about that and I thought again...HEY, I have lost weight now, maybe I can join? I mentioned that to my wife to see what she thought of the whole idea and she said that she had been looking into for me already! I was totally giddy about it! When we got home I immediatly went on the computer and downloaded the application form. I plan on filling it out today and turning it in tomorrow! Wish me luck! I may need it since I am still diabetic (I don't know if there would be a problem with me being diabetic or not). I am down to taking care of it with just diet and exercise and no pills! Sorry this was long, but I am very excited about this!

You go Christian. You have a new opportunity to do what you always wanted to do--now do it. I am curious about your diabetes--because I have it and haven't gotten a date yet. How many pills/insulin were you on--or were you? Good luck to you. Pam

I was on Glucophage and Metformin...I took about 5 pills a day. One of them twice a day and the other 3 times a day. Now, just diet and exercise is all I have to do and I still get low blood sugar! Good luck on getting that date! -Chris

I can't wait to get off some of my prescription meds. My A1c is 8.9 and my doctor wants me to go on insulin--I'm fighting that but don't know how long I can---probably depends on when I get my surgery date. Pam

You go guy! That would be neat. I hear it si not a bad income and benifit package, either. And the firemen always look so hot in th ose uniforms!

Oh my gosh! How exciting for you! I bet it is just such a wonderful feeling to be able to do the things you always wanted to do but could not because of your weight. Maybe I should set my goals a little higher. My first goal was to be able to sit in a regular camping chair, theatre chair - any chair without: 1. breaking it 2. being uncomfortable 3. having to lift the arm rest to be able to fit. 4. having to use my kid's tray on a plane because mine does not go down past my belly and sit flat. and last but not least, 5. being able to sit in a booth at a restaurant!!! Keep us posted on your application! Alaina

That Rocks, Chris! Good for you!! What an amazing accopmplishment, to actually be able to consider such a physically demanding job! I have to say that I'll worry about you with all the wild fires in the summer! Take Care! -Mary P

Thank you Mary, but I am not heading out to the mountains to fight wildfires (just yet ). I am just going to sign on as a volunteer fireman in the Salem/Keizer area. I have to be accepted first. ~crossing fingers~ -Thank you! -Chris

wow chris, no holding you down any more huh??? first the amazing bike ride, and now this... what will be next?? ok, just admit it...... you really want to do this cuz you know firemen are who women fantasize about... LOL seriously though, it really is awesome, respectuful, and rewarding to do such a thing for your community... let us know what happens.. theresa

HI Chris!! I hope you are able to get the opportunity to be a fireman!!! Best of luck to you!! Sarah