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.

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.

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. 

1. If I have to pick one, I would say sweatpants!! They go with everything and work great in all weather conditions. My favorite dump cover!!

2. Any of my WAB shirts!!! That message is my jam!!!

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