My fitness/weight loss journey started when I was just two months pregnant with my second child.

My mother fell ill and nearly died. I was overweight prior to my pregnancy, and my mother’s illness forced me to look at my own health. But it took another wake-up call a few months later to really force me to make changes. During my pregnancy I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes and was forced to make changes in my diet and lifestyle to protect the health of my child. Because both of my parents have a history of diabetes and heart disease, my doctor told me that I was now at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. And I had battled borderline high cholesterol since my early twenties, which could add to my health issues as I aged.

After being diagnosed with gestational diabetes, I began walking twice a day, every day, around my neighborhood. I started to watch what I ate and began to read nutritional labels, keep a food journal, and weigh and measure my food. I learned what a portion size was and what it was not! Over the remaining months of my pregnancy, I maintained a healthy weight and gave birth to a healthy baby girl. After giving birth, I continued my walking and eating habits and joined a gym. I consulted with a personal trainer for support in my quest to find my ideal body weight.

I traded in my walking shoes and began running to improve my cardiovascular health. Unfortunately, my mother lost her battle with cancer. But this event pushed me to the next level, and in 2008 I competed in the Twin Cities Marathon 5K. I finished with my personal best time of 26:30. Last October I competed in the Twin Cities Marathon 10K with a time of 56:06. My goal for next year will be to compete in the 10-mile race at the Twin Cities Marathon.

Even though I have lost nearly 45 pounds, for me it is about the bigger picture. I have learned how to live healthier and set an example for my children on how important healthy eating and exercise are.