May 2010 changed everything. I was only 17 when my father passed away from a heart attack. I still remember that night vividly- trying desperately to perform lifesaving CPR on him as my sister called 911. The shock and helplessness overwhelmed me. Once the medics arrived, anger took over; I found myself punching holes in the walls of my fathers house, unable to contain the storm of emotions inside.
Saying goodbye to my father that night never felt real, he was gone in the blink of an eye. Reflecting on the type of man he was has shaped my entire journey. His strength, integrity, and kindness inspired me to become a better human, to treat others and myself with the respect I was raised with. I strive every day to make him proud and continue his legacy. I believe deeply in the idea that, as Macklemore once said, “ I heard you die twice: once when they bury you in the grave, and a second time when is the last time that somebody mentions your name”. Talking about our loved ones after they’re gone is essential; it keeps their spirit alive and reminds us of the lessons they left behind.
Despite that brutal loss, I was fortunate to have a great childhood. I was born and raised in Lake Berryessa, a place where weekends were filled with the simple pleasures of skipping rocks, fishing, and swimming. When I wasn’t playing baseball, life felt uncomplicated and full of promise. My parents loved me and did their best to give me a great life.
Transitioning to middle school in American Canyon was a big culture shock coming from Lake Berryessa. I had to adapt quickly, make new friends, and learn to navigate a completely different environment. High school, however, proved to be a struggle. I found myself in and out of trouble- ditching class during my junior year and getting kicked off sports teams.
After graduating high school, I was lucky enough to play a year of baseball at Napa Junior College. Later, I transferred to Shasta Community College and continued playing baseball until lifes demands became too heavy to bear. I was falling behind in school, still grappling with the weight of my fathers death. All I wanted to do was play baseball, but I couldn’t focus on anything else.
Here’s a nice article the Napa Register covered on my year of baseball the the JC:
For years, I worked in the restaurant industry, leading an unhealthy lifestyle. Sports were a thing of the past replaced by long work hours and heavy drinking. But then, a thought started creeping in: What if I ended up passing away early, just like my father did? I didn’t want to die at 49 like my dad or 55 like his father- both victims of heart attacks. That realization hit me hard.
In my early 20s, while living in Oakland with my girlfriend (now my wife), I decided to get back into sports and joined a men’s fast-pitch baseball league in the Bay Area. Playing baseball again felt incredible it brought me happiness, but I quickly realized that my body was out of shape. I pulled a hamstring during one of the first games, sprinting to first base, and that injury was my wake-up call. I understood then how important the gym was if I wanted to continue playing sports well into my 20s and beyond.
At that time, I was still working in the restaurant industry- passionless paycheck is how I refer to my time there. Conversations with my buddy Luis, who was studying to change careers, made me recognize that I needed a different path. I didn’t have the time or support to go back to school, while working 50 hours a week.
Then I discovered a program called NASM the National Academy of Sports Medicine which offered a course to earn a Nationally Acreddited certificate in personal training. I dedicated my nights to studying, began exercising seriously again, and embarked on a lifestyle change that would ultimately save my life.
Exercise changed my life. It has been instrumental in helping me cope with my fathers death, managing the anger, sadness, depression, and anxiety that still visit from time to time. The gym became my sanctuary a place where dumbbells and barbells were more than just equipment; they were my tools for rebuilding and healing. Every rep, every set, became a step toward reclaiming my strength and my future.
As I mark February Heart Month, I reflect on my journey and the power of exercise not only as a means to physical fitness but as a vital outlet for mental and emotional health. I share my story because I know that life will throw hardships our way. If you’re struggling whether it’s grief, anger, or the everyday stresses of life remember that the gym can be a place of refuge and transformation. It’s where you can channel your energy, clear your mind, and build both muscle and resilience.
For anyone facing tough times, know this: you have the strength within you to overcome. The gym is there, waiting with its familiar weights and unyielding spirit, ready to help you fight back and rebuild. Let exercise be your outlet, your therapy, and your pathway to a healthier, happier life.
Stay strong, keep pushing forward, and make every rep count. Elevate the way you handle stress and the curveballs of life.
-Bobby Ojala
Founder/CEO Elevate PT Napa
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