This is a more personal post than I usually write, but it’s something I feel needs to be acknowledged: my wife, Sherry, has been an amazing supporter and partner in this journey to better health. I’ve said before that I could not have ever made it this far without her, but that is sort of an over simplification of how large a part she has played in my success.

Early on, her support was necessary for me to even get started. Without her in on the plan with me, I would never have begun. Once she signed on, my determination to see the Whole30 through without faltering was based on my desire to never let her down and to be her rock. I wanted to be strong for both of us, but mostly for her. She made me want to do better.

When we transitioned into Paleo, she did all the research, and then all the cooking. She made sure we had the right ingredients, she searched for new and delicious recipes, and she spent the time in the kitchen to make it all a reality. From that first week all the way up to this last weekend, she dedicates her Sundays to making our meals. She likens it to, “Cooking a Thanksgiving meal every Sunday” with the amount of cooking and coordination needed. That’s just amazing to me. I try to help by being her sous chef and by cleaning dishes and cooking utensils while she cooks, as does her mom. We try to support her as best as we can, but ultimately, she’s doing the lion’s share in the kitchen.

Now, she’s my exercise buddy. She’s helping me push myself past my disdain for exercise and supporting my desire to get into great shape through exercise. She runs with me, matching my slow pace, and motivating me throughout. She checks up on me when she notices a change in my breathing, and makes sure I’m not feeling any bad pains.

The level of support I have received from her in all aspects of this journey has been exceptional. I can’t express enough how much I appreciate all her work and her support, and although I try through actions and words, I will always come short of letting her know just how amazing and special she is to me. She’s my hero, and the pillar upon which my successes rest.

Thank you, sweet girl. You have made my life better, and life with you improves all the time. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for us!