Crystal Dodds - From Cancer to Baddie

Posted on Jul 08, 2025 By Allie Ruby

WELCOME BACK BADDIES + DADDIES!

For Feature Friday, this week, we bring you Crystal Dodds. The definition of BADDIE. Overcoming extreme medical setbacks in life, she rose up and said "fuck that". She became the ultimate badass and we are proud she is part of our Pseudo family and thankful that she is wanting to share her triumphant story.

You can follow Crystal on Instagram @bigmeximama

"I found mental freedom as my body became more mobile."

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE GYM?

Nine years ago, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Esophageal Cancer at 452 pounds. I was given a 20% chance of surviving past the next five years. I lost two inches of my esophagus, half my stomach due to the Cancer — but I survived.

Most importantly, I got to keep being a mom. That second chance pushed me to change my life.

Today, 9 years later, I’m 277 pounds lighter and so much stronger. As my body became more mobile, my mind found freedom. I’m not just surviving anymore — I’m truly living.

WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON?

I am preparing for my first bodybuilding show, which is coming up in November. After being a competitive powerlifter for the last 5 years, I decided to push to the next level.

SHOP FAFO

WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE GIVING UP, WHAT DO YOU SAY TO YOURSELF?

I have two sayings. I use them with my personal training clients, and I live by them.

"Strength comes from doing the things you thought you couldn't."

If you have told me at 452lbs, I would be achieving my dream of bodybuilding, I would have thought you were crazy.

"You were given this life because you are strong enough to live it."

This one is tattooed on my arm as a reminder that I can do hard things. I can survive and persevere in the toughest of times. These things are where I dig deep on those hard days.