In that single moment I started working on myself from the inside out. I treated myself differently by doing little things: bubble baths, manicures, and self-help books. The more I read the more empowered I became. Weighing close to 200lbs., one of the areas of life that I decided to improve was my health. As I learned about the importance of nutrition in weight loss, I reduced my intake of fatty foods, chose healthier starches, and cut out sugar.

The results were amazing! Inspired by my improved quality of life, I took the next step and bought a treadmill. I started walking, then jogging, and eventually built up enough stamina to run in the Indianapolis Mini Marathon…twice. Not just running it either but with great times both less than 2 hours. Eating properly and exercising gave me a new identity and my accomplishments only fueled my desire to improve. When I incorporated weightlifting into my exercise regimen, my body took on a whole new form. I loved the nice well rounded, fit look I was getting from my muscles. While attending a bodybuilding contest to support a friend, I decided to take my new lifestyle to a higher level by competing in the premier amateur figure circuit. I hired Kim Oddo, a great trainer and nutritionist, and took it to the next level. During this time I also sought out some wonderful role models via email. I owe a great deal to Jennifer Nicole Lee, Tosca Reno and Amanda Savalle just to name a few. They have been so kind to me and helped to guide my journey. They have been so encouraging and I want to give them a special HUGE thank you. Without my mentors…I don't know where I would be today.

My new found dedication to a healthy lifestyle resulted in losing over 70lbs. My success was the result of believing in myself, eating healthy, adhering to a daily exercise program and most importantly, loving myself on the inside for the first time ever. Since my transformation, I have received some great media attention. I was featured as the "Transformation of the Week" on one of the fitness industry's most well known websites Bodybuilding.com, a story about me in the local newspaper and on the Fox Morning News in Indianapolis. I also finished in the top four in two bodybuilding/figure competitions. I have since gone on to compete in the Bodyrock 2006 and most recently in the Arnold Fitness Classic Amateur Competition. My next competitions will include the Emerald Cup, followed by the Jr USA's, my first true National Level competition. I am so excited. I know that I may be older then most beginning competitors at the age of 40, but to be on that stage is my trophy. Who I have become is my trophy. To hang in there strong with 20 and 30 year olds, well, it's icing on the cake. The lifelong friendships I have made are truly priceless.