I was never the athletic type. Fitness and healthy eating were never a priority.

I was overweight for most of my high school years into adulthood. I tried many diets that worked temporarily, but I always gained the weight back (and some!). I thought that life was just supposed to be that way. I gained a lot more weight after the birth of my two children and it began to negatively affect my health and my mood. I didn't have the energy to do everyday tasks.

Then I hit rock bottom when a series of events led me to a pit of despair, isolation, and depression. In my struggle to get back up, I began working with a personal trainer. As I got physically stronger, I felt emotionally stronger and found the strength to get help. Therapy, church, bible studies, coaching, and journaling all played a vital role in my healing. I found purpose in the pain and became a certified physical fitness instructor and life coach, committed to helping others get healthy and whole. I was also ordained as a pastor, confirming the call I was already walking in. I now exist to serve others by igniting joy, through healthy living transformation!