By Samuel Fitch

This is my first blog post—so I’m hoping readers will extend a little grace. I’m 44 years old at the time of writing, and lately I’ve been reflecting on the last two decades of my life. One question keeps coming to mind: Would my 24-year-old self be proud of the man I’ve become and the career I’ve chosen?

At 24, I was newly married—Jessica and I had tied the knot in 2003. We were less than a year into marriage, expecting our first child, and I was working full-time at my family’s restaurant. We hadn’t bought our first home yet, but I was riding high on love, youth, and big dreams. At the same time, I was still dealing with some self-destructive habits—drinking, gambling—trying to figure out who I wanted to be as an adult.

Fast forward twenty years, and life has taken some sharp, unexpected turns. Jessica and I have grown stronger together. We’re now parents to four incredible children—three daughters and our youngest, a son. But that early vision I had for my career didn’t quite pan out the way I imagined.

In July of 2019, everything changed. After a family trip to Louisville, I climbed eight flights of stairs to our hotel room. The next morning, I woke up numb in my arms and legs. That led to an MRI, which revealed lesions on my brain. I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Fortunately, we caught it early, and treatment has helped me manage it well. I’ve only had one major flare-up since—spasticity so intense I couldn’t walk without assistance for almost three days. Steroids eventually brought relief, but that was a defining moment.

Looking back, I believe my younger self would be proud of how I’ve handled this diagnosis. Over the years, I’ve immersed myself in books—personal growth, spiritual development, business leadership. They’ve helped shape my mindset and prepare me for life’s challenges. MS was the greatest challenge I had ever faced—until 2021.

That year, I suffered a severe foot injury requiring reconstructive surgery. I was out of work for nearly nine months. That time forced a tough, honest conversation with Jessica: could I really see myself working on concrete restaurant floors for the next 25 years?

We both knew the answer.

Around that time, I reached out to our financial advisor for guidance—and he suggested I submit my resume. That led me to Alliance Advisory Group. I passed all the licensing exams and officially became a financial advisor in New York State in 2022.

And you know what? I love this career.

It keeps me connected to the markets—something my grandfather, who started our family restaurant, always enjoyed talking about. Sadly, he passed away just three weeks before I broke my foot, so he never saw me make this pivot. I wish he had. But I carry his values with me every day.

Now, almost three years into this profession, I have a corkboard in my office filled with photos from clients—families I’ve been able to help. It’s personal. As a Christian since 2002, I consider this work a calling. I get to walk with people through deeply personal aspects of life. Outside of someone’s health, few things are as private—or as revealing—as their finances. It’s humbling work.

So, would my younger self be proud?

I think so. Not just because I faced MS head-on, or because I recovered from injury and pivoted careers. But because I’m living a life that values people, purpose, and faith. The restaurant path was chosen out of deep respect for my grandfather—I wanted his legacy to live on. But it’s remarkable how life unfolded after his passing to lead me somewhere entirely new.

Today, I’m proud of the life and the career I’m building. I’m proud to support organizations like the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, helping others who share this diagnosis. And I’m deeply thankful—for my family, my calling, and the opportunity to make a real impact.

My 24-year-old self had no idea what lay ahead. But I think he’d be proud of the man, husband, father, and advisor I’ve become.

Thanks for reading. I hope this first blog gave you a glimpse into who I am—and maybe even reminded you of your own journey.