Mike Wilson, 57, Associate Superintendent of Schools for the
Hobbies: Hunting, Fishing, and Cooking
Previous Work With the American Heart Association: Company leader for the Start! Walking Program; City-wide chairman for the 2007 American Start! Heart Walk
I applied for the Start! Challenge! because of a deep commitment to work with the American Heart Association again and to change my life. I was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy at age 44. I had a twin brother die of sudden death congestive heart failure at age 43. I recently lost my youngest sister the same way.
After my sister died, I reviewed my lifestyle and have determined it needs to change. I have used several excuses to sit around, do no exercising, and have gained weight. I also know that without this change, I am a prime candidate to die of this disease at a young age. I believe I owe it to my brother and sister to improve my life. I want to enjoy my later years and be around to watch my grandsons grow up and be able to spend quality time with them.
In addition, I want to serve as an example to those people like me. Besides being overweight and suffering from heart disease, I had a knee replaced one year ago. I want to be an example that people with those inflictions can work, exercise, eat properly and can improve their physical well being. No more excuses! We can do it!