April 2015

You started by changing your eating habits. What changes did you make?

I started eating more fruits and vegetables, specifically organics. I also started juicing, which detoxed my body. I eat only lean meats and seafood.

What does a typical day look like as far as what you’re eating?

First thing in the morning, I drink a bottle of water with lemon, lime and cucumbers in it, plus either a rosemary or sage leaf. Then I’ll have a bowl of oatmeal with Greek yogurt, fruit and egg whites. Later, I’ll have nuts for a snack. Lunch would be a salad with turkey on the side. For dinner, I might have brown rice or sweet potato, veggies and baked chicken or turkey.

What other changes have you made?

I also began exercising. I do some form of exercise every day. As a matter of fact, I’m studying to get certified as a personal trainer.

What do you do for exercise?

I do P90X workouts at home with friends, boot camp at Tom Bass Park, led by a personal trainer, and boxing at Elite Boxing Academy.

You work full time and you’re raising two teenagers, how do you find the time for exercise?

I hear people say they don’t have time or the money to work out. You don’t have to go to a gym. You can get up 30 minutes early and do jumping jacks and squats. Do something. You don’t have to do an intense workout. Any little thing helps. It’s cheaper to eat better and exercise than pay medical bills.

What results have you had?

I’ve gone from a size 9/10 to a size 4/6, but the biggest benefit is not being sick. I look and feel healthy.

What advice do you have for others who want to be healthier?

It’s all about taking one day at a time and staying focused. The advice I give is, there is no silver bullet to success. Even millionaires had to lose before they could win. To be successful in losing weight, it takes dedication, focus, commitment and planning. You have to ask yourself, “How badly do I want it?” You can succeed at whatever you set your heart on.

How important is it to have the support of others?

Support is very important. You can’t do this by yourself. Having someone prod you to go work out when you don’t feel like doing it and holding you accountable helps keep you on track.

What are your long-term goals?

I want to live a long and healthy life. To do that, I have to eat better and keep my weight down. I do it for myself and for my kids because I want to be around for them.