Hey y'all! So I'm 38 years old. Been a single dad for about 4 years now to an awesome 8 year old boy.

After a string of bullshit jobs or jobs that require more time away from my son than I'd like, I've finally decided to pursue a new undergrad degree in computer science and eventually plan to get dual degreed in cognitive science. My long term goal is to work in machine learning and AI.

I've gained about 50lbs in the last 8 months after a string of really messed up health issues that laid me out on the sidelines for a while. I'm used to being a 200lb athlete most of my life (BJJ for about 20 years and other martial arts/climbing) and I'm currently sitting at about 255.

Since starting my classes I've realized how much I miss having a sense of imposed discipline in my life and even though it's been socially isolating, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. I don't post on Reddit much, but I lurk daily.

I'm writing this message to all of the single dads who feel like they're lost and have no hope. Much of our contribution goes unnoticed. And that's ok. Always remember that the only validation you need is the warm embrace of your children.

As alone as you may feel, as long as you have them, you're never alone.

I appreciate the vulnerability it takes of all of you who have posted and who have inspired me to make my first post in a very long time.

The door is open for anyone that wants to chat about anything from fitness, parenting, or just a mental check in.

Keep your heads up brothers! There's other people out here fighting along side you and you're infinitely more capable than you think!

Cheers!