When I was asked who my Health Hero was I thought long and hard. It was hard to narrow it down to one person or one moment that shaped my healthy habits. There was the high school coach, the college coach, my friends, gym folks and most recently a handful of trainers. However, there was a strong foundation for all my influencers to build on. It all started with one lady, my mom. My dad’s pretty awesome too.
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| With my Dad and Mom at my High School Graduation, 2000 |
My brother and I were chatting the other night about how we use to think she was crazy — always working out and eating healthy. Little did we know she was teaching us life long habits. Now as adults we see the importance of working out daily and fueling our mind and body with healthy choices.
I learned my love for bikes from my dad. Early on we would bike around town and to the beach. Today he enjoys restoring old bikes and for my 30th birthday gave me a 1948 Firestone Super Cruiser.
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| Post run breakfast with my brother and sister, 2013 |
Back in the day we all played sports from volleyball, to baseball, to water polo. She made sure we were active. Yes, we’ve all had our ups and downs, but in the end we’re all very active, fit and healthy adults.
Mama Lesa may have set the foundation, but my brother and sister keep inspiring me to be the healthiest version of me I can be.
My sister has taught me with persistency and determination you can bounce back from anything. Nearly three years ago, while walking down the street, she was hit by a taxi driver who had fallen asleep at the wheel. With a knee injury that wouldn’t go away she pushed through. Not only did she regain her strength she now plays beach volleyball regularly, spins and practices martial arts. She’s fit, fierce and one badass. No excuses.
My brother has taught me to try new things. His desire to go out of his comfort zone and try new sports/activities has inspired me to participate in Tough Mudder and most recently join crossfit. This guy does it all from fly fishing to half marathons! I even had him mountain biking last summer.
I’m thankful to have such a great family and a mother who built a fantastic foundation. I might be biased, but my family is pretty awesome and good looking! Who keeps you healthy?
What an inspirational story about your sister! That's really incredible. And so cool that your dad restores old bikes, my dad started doing that a few years back 🙂
Her hard work has paid off and it's been great to watch. That's cool that your dad restores old bike too!