Yesterday, April 27, is what would have been my dad's 62nd birthday. He died of heart disease. His first heart attack happened when he was 29. His next heart attack happened when he was 51 and it was fatal. I was only 17 when we lost him.

This progress isn't all about physical appearance. Of course it feels good and looks good to be fit. But this is mostly about health.

Though my dad was clueless about his heart until it was too late, I refuse to follow in his footsteps. And my birthday gift to him is staying healthy. My BMI is in the "fitness" category and that feels good. So, happy birthday, Dad. You couldn't help genetics, but I am beating them. Thank you for showing me how to live a healthy life.