Jason Ross’s transformation began in 2018, a year marked by unexpected and life-altering events. During this time, his brother’s wife was diagnosed with brain cancer after a freak accident. The diagnosis led Jason to reflect on his own life and health. He was also rejected for a job, and although the stated reason was a lack of professionalism, Jason felt it was more about his size. This rejection triggered a series of small but significant changes in his lifestyle.

Determined to improve his health, Jason started by giving up French fries at fast-food restaurants. This simple change led to others, like drinking water between beers and eventually giving up Coke for Lent alongside his daughter. Over time, these small steps accumulated, leading Jason to realize the power of gradual change.

After spending a rough 10 days in Florida and treating his body poorly, Jason made a commitment to stop drinking, starting with a text to his bartender to switch him to water. This marked the beginning of a year-long transformation.

As Jason made more changes, he started running small distances with his wife and noticed his clothes fitting better. Encouraged by the positive feedback from others who noticed his weight loss, Jason bought a bicycle and became addicted to riding. He began visiting his mother in a care home, riding his bike to see her every weekend, which made him feel like a good son but also helped him stay motivated.

By the end of the year, Jason had lost 130 pounds. He felt like a new person — more energetic and alive than ever before. But in 2020, his journey took a challenging turn. During a trip to Seattle, he slipped on a trolley track while riding a bike. The injury to his leg caused excruciating pain, leading to a long period of immobility and weight gain.

Despite trying to avoid surgery, the pain became unbearable, and Jason found himself unable to move, which deeply affected his mental health. Realizing he needed to make a change, Jason sought help from Dr. Owen Tabor, Jr., who confirmed it was time for hip surgery. With his surgery initially scheduled for later in the year, Jason’s wife found a doctor in Nashville who could perform the surgery sooner, and Jason immediately felt a connection with her compassionate approach.

The surgery was a success, and Jason was able to move without pain for the first time in years. He became enthusiastic about his recovery, quickly progressing from using a walker to touching the floor within days of the surgery.

After his hip surgery, Jason went through 16 weeks of physical therapy. During his PT at OrthoSouth, Jason recalls physical therapist Steven Chipman challenging him to “find your inner ninja” and working with him to look ahead to individual goals. He became known for riding his bike to his physical therapy appointments.

Jason’s journey didn’t stop at physical recovery. He delved into mental and emotional healing as well, engaging in somatic therapy to address the trauma his body had stored from years of pain and stress after his accident. This therapy, along with a deeper exploration of his faith and a focus on gratitude, helped Jason overcome the mental hurdles that had held him back.

Just weeks after his hip surgery, Jason decided that he needed to push himself to get back into the physical shape he had been in before his accident. His love of riding led him to Victory Bicycle Studio where he joined this year’s Couch to 50 Mile Summer Training Program. When asked about his experience with the program, he describes his pleasant surprise of learning that the program is more than just a work-out, it’s a community. They look out for each other and take care of each other, loaning bikes, giving rides, and sharing this part of their lives with each other.

Today, Jason continues to push himself physically, mentally, and spiritually. His story is one of perseverance, small but consistent changes, and the power of positive reinforcement from others. By setting goals, seeking help when needed, and remaining committed to his journey, Jason transformed his life, emerging as a stronger, healthier, and more compassionate person. He’s even convinced his wife to start riding with him!

Jason outside OrthoSouth on one of his bike rides.

 

By Melissa Kandel
Photos by Tindall Stephens