Growing up in a world of diverse homes and experiences, with death, divorce and an overwhelming feeling of loss and feeling unwanted, holidays always stood out as moments of unadulterated excitement and joy. These occasions brought not only the promise of sumptuous feasts but also the warmth of family bonds and togetherness. In my childhood, the fondest memories were often associated with gatherings at my aunt and uncle’s house, where Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Friday night dinners were staples of happiness. The menu was predictable, filled with comforting favorites like Lemon Lime Jell-O salad alongside turkey and Grammie Lane’s famous blonde brownies.
Food has been an integral part of my life, a source of both comfort and connection. These gatherings instilled in me a profound love for cooking, a passion that has endured throughout my life. Even as I battled with being overweight, cooking became a refuge, from fears, anxiety and depression but also a place where I could find confidence and satisfaction. It allowed me to please others, to feel needed and valued, and to excel at something I loved.
Despite lifelong struggles with weight, my culinary journey remained a constant. It transcended various job roles, often leading me back to the kitchen because it was where I excelled. However, as my weight continued to be a concern, I realized that I needed a drastic change to save my life. Diets and restrictions had proven futile in the long run. After much contemplation and guidance from my doctor, I decided to undergo gastric bypass surgery.
This decision marked a turning point in my life, a moment where I chose to take control of my health. However, it wasn’t just the surgery that transformed me. It was a confluence of events, starting with a contest that introduced me to a remarkable individual named Hunter Grindle. His pushup challenge on Facebook caught my attention, and despite my initial hesitations, I applied to participate.
When I didn’t win initially, I felt defeated. But to my surprise, they announced two more winners, and I was one of them. That’s when my journey with Coach Hunter and Coach Brandon began. I started personal training in June 2020, right around the time of my surgery.
The physical transformation was only part of the story. As I shed pounds, I also started reinventing recipes, making them healthier and suitable for my new dietary needs. Despite not being able to enjoy many of these dishes myself, I found immense joy in knowing that I could create delicious, healthier versions for others. Cooking became my way of giving back, my way of helping others embark on their own weight loss journeys without sacrificing the foods they loved.
Over the course of a year, I lost an astounding 255 pounds. More than just shedding physical weight, I gained invaluable friendships and a support system that sustained me through the ups and downs. I even started a business with a close friend, teaching food safety and sharing my passion for cooking and recipe reinvention with others.
Yet, as the physical changes unfolded, I encountered a profound emotional challenge. With food no longer serving as an emotional crutch, I grappled with anxiety and neediness. I sought solace in the attention of others, sometimes overwhelming those closest to me. It was a tumultuous journey to understand and change these emotional dependencies, but with the unwavering support of a trusted friend, I began to make progress.
The emotional rollercoaster accompanying weight loss surgery was, at times, even harder than the physical transformation. When a lifelong crutch is taken away, learning to stand on your own two feet is a process of trial and error. But I persisted, leaning into my love for cooking and my desire to help others, which filled the void left by emotional eating.
Today, I stand over 370 pounds lighter than my heaviest, a testament to the power of determination and a robust support system. I’ve turned 53, feeling more alive and vibrant than I have in years. Life is brimming with good people and an unwavering support network.
As I reflect on my journey, I realize that staying motivated and embracing a healthy diet is a multi-faceted challenge. It requires setting realistic goals, breaking them into manageable steps, and finding the right support. Motivation must come from within, but the encouragement of friends, family, and mentors is invaluable.
Change, whether in our diets or our lives, begins with a choice. It’s about taking responsibility and committing to do good, both for ourselves and others. And in this journey, love plays a central role. Love for what we do, love for the people around us, and most importantly, love for ourselves.
Leadership, too, is intertwined with this journey. It involves influencing and motivating others, but it begins with the choice to serve as an encouragement to someone. It’s about creating an environment that fosters growth and provides the tools for individuals to change for themselves. It’s about giving without expecting anything in return, understanding that when we help others, we ultimately help ourselves.
In conclusion, my story is one of transformation, resilience, and the power of encouragement. It’s a testament to the human capacity to change, grow, and inspire others along the way. Through the love of cooking and the support of those around me, I’ve not only conquered my weight but also found a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. And I’m determined to keep going, to keep motivating myself and others, one step at a time.