When I was 33 years old, I weighed 240 lbs and had 3 strokes.  Following almost two years of trying to get pregnant, including fertility treatments, I had back-to-back pregnancies.  When I was 7 1/2 months pregnant with my youngest son, I was hospitalized with pre-eclampsia (essentially my body was shutting down from the pregnancy).  I was found unconscious on the hospital floor after having seizures, hitting my head and having the strokes.  Once I was stabilized, my son was delivered via c-section.  He was a 4 pound dynamo and a healthy baby.  I, however, went into a coma.  

When I came out of it, I had to relearn my life -- how to use a fork, did I like pizza, how do I pump gas?  It was several months before I could be left alone or drive.  When I was finally cleared to drive short distances, I did not know where to go.  At a doctor appointment, I found out my weight was 240 pounds!!!  You can see my before photo in the background.

There was a gym a few miles from my home, but I was afraid they would laugh at me …. I was the fat girl.  I started slow; I would go later at night and just walk on the treadmill, slowly building my tolerance.  As I gained my confidence, I desperately wanted to try a step class.  When I finally found the courage to walk into the group exercise room, the instructor was so incredibly kind.  That room full of men and women, who I was convinced would laugh at me, cheered me on!  When I first started, I had to take a break every 10 minutes of the class -- but my cheering section kept me inspired.  I lost 100 pounds.  After many years of being a participant, I wanted to help others meet their goals.  With the help of three amazing mentors, I got my group exercise certification and haven't looked back.

I have been featured in Shape magazine for my story.  I have kept the weight off for 16 years -- it hasn't always been easy, but it has always been worth it.  

We all have a story.  I just shared mine with you.  I hope you will stop by and share yours with me.  I would love to be a part of it!