BOSTON — In the eyes of many, Jim Nolan is a machine.
But his life has changed considerably in the 12 years since he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
"I wasn't taking care of myself. I was depressed. I didn't know what was going on until I received the diagnosis," he explained.
At one point, he was in the hospital for two weeks unable to get out of bed.
"Once I knew what was going on, I could embrace it and learn what to do," he said.
And that learning Brought him to the gym, where he dropped 117 pounds and became a bodybuilder and trainer.
And it's not just for himself. Through nutrition and fitness, he's training others in and around Boston who have MS and other debilitating conditions.
His YouTube channel is viewed around the world.
"I have seen great success in helping people and training people and making people stronger," he said. "Getting people out of their walkers, getting people out of wheelchairs, getting people to eat healthier."
It's so much more than just being healthier.
For nolan, it's about changing his life and others', especially for those who feel like they're already carrying the weight of the world.
"The rewarding part of the job is when you help someone stand again; when you help someone learn to use their hand again," Nolan said.
As for Nolan, he says he's doing well. He has good days and bad days, but he's not on medication.
He says his real medicine is working out and eating right.
[ Military recruits getting Made-in-the-USA athletic trainers ]