In 2017, Bruce Slusser weighed in at 556 pounds.
“My darkest moment came when I was diagnosed with sleep apnea, kidney disease, and high blood pressure, one after another,” Slusser shares. “It was a harsh wake-up call that brought to light the consequences of my unhealthy lifestyle.”
Sitting in a doctor’s office in his hometown of Jackson, Mich., Slusser broke down.
“The doctor’s words painted a grim future if I didn’t take immediate action,” Slusser says. “The realization of facing life-threatening health problems due to my weight was a heavy burden to bear. My mentor, a father figure in my life, stepped in with tough love, telling me that I needed to make a change or face the consequences.”
“I Knew That I Had the Strength and Determination to Turn it Around.”
Seven years later, 27-year-old Slusser has completely transformed his life. He now tips the scales at 251 pounds, a staggering 305 pounds lighter than his previous peak weight.
In 2020, Slusser underwent a gastric bypass surgery, which helped facilitate his weight loss and alleviated his health issues.
“I believe a large part of it stems from my upbringing and the way I turned to food for comfort during difficult times,” Slusser reflects. “Food became my solace when I felt alone and misunderstood. But it is never too late to change and pursue your dreams.”
When it comes to weight loss, Slusser encourages progress rather than perfection.
“Setting realistic and attainable goals has become my mantra, as I’ve realized that aiming too high can often lead to feelings of failure,” he says. “By focusing on small milestones and celebrating each step forward, I’ve seen continuous progress in my life.”
He adds, “It’s important to be kind to yourself and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Remember that every step towards your goals is an achievement worth acknowledging. Weight loss is a journey, and it’s important to be patient and compassionate with yourself throughout the process.”
Guiding Others Forward
Over the past half-decade, Slusser has dedicated himself to aiding others in their journeys toward personal growth as a Correctional Officer.
“One of the most rewarding elements of working in corrections is being able to positively impact the lives of individuals who are incarcerated,” Slusser says. “This can include helping them with their mental health issues, providing resources for education and rehabilitation programs, or simply offering a listening ear and support.”
The Next Chapter
A year and a half ago, Slusser started to write the next chapter in his nearly three-decade-long story. He credits his fiancé and their three children for propelling him to new heights.
“As someone who has always tinted my own cars, I found solace in watching YouTube videos and joining supportive Facebook groups where I received valuable advice and guidance,” says Edge Dealer Slusser, who operates Precise Tinting out of Lansing, Mich., on a part-time basis. “I honed my skills in cutting and installation techniques, igniting a newfound passion for window film. Window film has not only allowed me to channel my creativity and attention to detail but also provided me with a sense of fulfillment and purpose.”