1. What caused you to join our contest?
"Last August I came down with Gillian Bere Syndrome. I went from
camping on Wednesday to paralyzed and in the ICU on Saturday. I
then spent a month in the hospital and three months learning how to
walk again. My kids were only 2.5 years and 3 months old at the
time. This was the scariest, hardest thing I have ever been through
and I never ever want this to happen again. I want to be the
healthiest person I can be so that if this ever happens again
(small chance), it won't be as sever.. I missed my son rolling over
for the first time, and I don't want to miss anything else in their
lives!"
2. What barriers have you experienced in the past when
it relates to achieving your goal?
"There have been many barriers or excuses I have used to not
achieved my goals, such as: I have spent the last three years
pregnant or nursing, so couldn't diet or exercise; I didn't have
time because of the kids, husband, house, work, etc. I was the
typical mom - everyone came before me."
3. How did this contest assist you in achieving your
goal?
"This contest helped me achieve my goals by providing me with
external motivation to keep me on track. The exercise blog and
nutritional tips helped with keeping me on track."
4. Now that you have achieved (or are on your way
to achieving) your goals, what impact has the change in fitness
made on your quality of life?
"My quality of life has been changed dramatically; 8 months ago
I came home from the hospital in a wheelchair, and today I can run
5 km. I can now run and play with my children in whatever they want
to do. I can chase my daughter at soccer practice, or spend the
afternoon rolling and laughing in the grass with my son. I can go
to the zoo and walk the whole time without pain. I have even signed
up for a softball team for the summer. Life is absolutely wonderful
and amazing!"
5. What advice would you give to someone else who
may be thinking about getting started on a healthier, more active
lifestyle?
"My advice is to just start! The hardest part is getting rid of
the excuses and to start. Remember that you are the most important
person in your life and that you can't take care of anyone else if
you don't take care of yourself first. Make the time for you and
everyone in your life benefits."
