Life’s twists can lead to profound transformation. I believe my journey from despair to determination, from grief to glory, is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the power of a positive mindset.
It all began with the sudden unexpected loss of my father in 2021, a heart-wrenching void that cast grief over my life. Stress and anxiety soon took a toll on my physical health, culminating in a near-fatal heart episode.
This harrowing experience became a turning point. To honor my father’s memory and take charge of my well-being, I embarked on a healing journey encompassing mind, body, and spirit.
I turned to a combination that included furthering my faith, following a diet known as the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), Standard Process muscle testing, and an exercise style called rucking. AIP, an anti-inflammatory diet, laid the foundation for healing, helping me shed weight and reduce inflammation. Muscle testing guided me to the right supplements and nutrients, a personalized approach addressing underlying health issues.
Beyond dietary changes and supplementation, physical activity proved vital. I discovered rucking, brisk walking with a weighted backpack, shedding an incredible 65 pounds of fat, and finding solace in each step.
On Nov. 5, I ran my first-ever NYC Marathon with bound hands, symbolizing the burdens of adversity we all face.
This challenge was meant to shine light on the work and issue driving Restore NYC, a non-profit organization dedicated to making freedom real for survivors of human trafficking.
My healing journey has shown me that the human spirit can achieve incredible feats when driven by purpose and backed with determination. In the darkest moments, a path to healing, light, and hope emerges.
As I laced up my running shoes for that unique marathon, I knew I was not just a transformed individual but a living testament. With the right mindset, we can conquer life’s challenges.
This marathon isn’t just about the finish line—it’s about the journey, growth, and healing. I run for myself, my father, and all on their path to transformation.
With each stride, I find solace. With each mile, I discover strength. This marathon marks the culmination of a life-altering journey that reshaped my existence in ways I never imagined.