Article Contributed on: 3/24/2009 2:29:33 PM
While leaving a dinner with friends and family downtown last year, I was jumped by two guys outside the restaurant. Not knowing what was the reason for this, I was able defend myself from the attackers and get my cousin's car with what I thought were minor injuries.
Later that week, when I was finishing at the Fire Academy, I started feeling an extreme stabbing pain in my back. Nothing I did could ease the pain. So I decided to get it checked soon. But, when stepping out of bed my right leg gave out and I fell to the floor. It turns out that my right leg was partially paralyzed and was at risk for not healing back to 100%.
When I had been kicked in the back during the attack, my lower disks to pinch my Sciatic nerve. The next couple days were crucial not to cause anymore damage before I could get into surgery.
After surgery in May my recovery time was six months before I could fully work out again. So, with my determination to start working out, I had the help of my best friend Jim Latsis and my trainer Shawn Mack I was able to start training only four months after surgery.
One day at the gym my trainer Shawn looked at me and said, "Hey, you need to do a bodybuilding show."
I said, "If you will invest the time in me, I will give 100% to you."
December 1, 2008, I started dieting for the NPC Axis Labs Northern competition. Today, a few weeks before the show, I have cut over 40lbs and have only a few more to go. I am more excited than ever to get on stage.
Without the help and understanding of Shawn and Jim I don't think I would have ever made it this far. Hopefuly this can inspire someone because anything is possible if you have the heart to never give up.
See you at the Northern!!!
www.jefftaylor.com for more information.