SPOONER, WISC. -- When Mike Bitney joined the volunteer fire department here a few years back, he jumped in with more than just two feet.
The eager rookie said he quickly realized he was in no shape to do the job. That's when he decided to make a change.
He also didn't like what he was reading. "I was surprised to discover that firefighters were dying because of heart attacks not at structure fires."
Instead, of blasting ahead with the "not me" attitude, Bitney got serious.
"I went to the National Volunteer Fire Council's website, and started. I followed their exercise plan, and started eating healthier."
Just by making better choices in the kitchen and making time for exercise, Bitney dropped 35 pounds. "I was really feeling a lot better."
But, his healthier lifestyle didn't stop there. With the help of local physicians who donated their time, a free screening was held for members of the department.
"Our chief was very supportive. He told us he wasn't out to sideline anyone. He said what we found out at the screenings would be between us and our doctors. He didn't want people not to go for fear of being told they couldn't volunteer."
Bitney said many embraced the effort, and took advantage of the opportunity.
But it didn't stop there. "I started seeing more and more guys at the gym and riding bikes."
Four years ago, he won NVFC's drawing for a gym. Bitney flew to Denver to tell his fitness success story to firefighters at an international conference.
Over time, however, the Washburn County prosecutor slipped back into his old habits -- a donut here, a few sodas there. He regained about 20 of the pounds he'd shed.
Following a hunting trip with his son and a visit to his doctor's office, Bitney went back to his regime. "Yeah, I was embarrassed. But, I decided to get right back on the horse..."
Bitney, 48, eliminated sweets, sodas and high fat foods. Instead, he ate more chicken, turkey and high fiber choices. Within 10 weeks, he was able to come off the cholesterol medicine. His vitals were good, and more importantly, his stamina had returned.
Also missing are those extra pounds he'd put back on, and a few more as well.
"I'm pulling nozzle, and on the front line attack team. I'm right there with guys half my age. I love it. I wish I'd gotten involved in firefighting when I was a lot younger..."
Bitney said it's important to get screenings, but knows that many shy away for fear of what will be found. Others believe it may signal the end of their firefighting.
"Awareness is important. Many have hidden danger lurking in their veins..."
Bitney said he's trying to get another screening clinic planned. "It's been a while, and we have new people. It's time we all get checked."
