In 2017, my life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with diabetes. I was 39, overweight, and, like many others, chasing the latest diet trends, hoping for a quick fix. But something changed this time—I decided to really understand the diet I was following, not just blindly jump in. What started out of fear—fear of harming my body with another fad—quickly became a passion. I found myself diving headfirst into the world of nutrition, learning everything I could about how the body works. Little did I know, this was the moment that would completely transform my life.
At the same time, I began working out, joining bootcamp classes and discovering a love for fitness that I never knew I had. The results didn’t come quickly, but I was hooked. Learning about metabolism, health, and strength fueled my commitment, even when the physical changes were slow to show up. But eventually, they did. My body began to change, and the shift wasn’t just on the outside—it was in my mind and spirit too. What started as a quest to change my appearance turned into a journey to become the best version of myself. I’ve seen it time and time again with strength training: we begin with aesthetic goals but stay for the life transformation.
For me, the transformation was profound. I reversed my diabetes, rid myself of chronic muscle and joint pain, and no longer needed four different medications for migraines, inflammation, and mood disorders. That was just the start. The knowledge I gained led me to become a nutrition coach, personal trainer, and metabolic health practitioner. Now, I dedicate my life to helping others reclaim their health and transform their bodies, just as I did.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is to let go of dogma when it comes to nutrition. Perfection isn’t the goal, and in fact, the all-or-nothing mentality is one of the biggest roadblocks to success. Life changes, our bodies change, and we need to learn to pivot as we move through different phases of life. With the right knowledge and a deep commitment to ourselves, we can do it. Yes, restrictions helped me reverse my condition, but once I healed, I knew that sustainability was key. A well-balanced plan—one that’s realistic and sustainable—is non-negotiable.
This journey never ends. We stumble, we get back up, and we learn from each setback. There’s no room for guilt or shame, only opportunities to grow. Consistency, as cliché as it may sound, is truly what wins the race. Over time, I’ve shifted my goals. In the past, I wanted to be the skinniest woman around, but today, my focus is on strength. I want to be a badass in midlife, someone who can handle whatever life throws at me. My ultimate goal is to stay independent as I age. I don’t need to live to 100, but if I make it to 80, I want to be self-sufficient at 80. It’s not about lifespan, it’s about health span.
Fitness and nutrition have given me my life back, and now, I’m here to help others reclaim theirs. It’s a lifelong journey, but one worth every moment. Cheers to health, to strength, and to living life on our own terms!
