At 27, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, and its onset was catastrophic. By 40, it had turned into a debilitating condition, robbing me of my athletic prowess and inflicting unimaginable chronic pain. Joint replacements became routine, offering some relief but cementing my self-image as disabled, a label I unwittingly embraced.

I once believed reducing activity would ease the pain, but it only led to weight gain and further agony. Even traveling required a wheelchair due to pervasive pain that defied medication, while diabetes added to my health burdens. I feared my life wouldn't extend past 50, underestimating the resilience I'd honed through years of battling adversity.

My life took a turn in 2002 when I achieved sobriety after years of alcohol abuse since age 12. Visualizing the person I aspired to be and believing in my ability to shape my destiny were pivotal. Sobriety opened doors to success in various aspects of my life.

In 2017, I embarked on an internal journey to redefine myself physically, emotionally, and professionally. Writing my story was therapeutic, enabling me to confront and learn from my life's ups and downs. Encouraged by Elizabeth, my fiancé, I embraced exercise with coaching support, rediscovering my athletic spirit. Starting with slow walks, I gradually increased my fitness levels, even competing in 5K races—an achievement that surpassed my expectations.

By 2019, I fully embraced an entrepreneurial path, consulting and motivating others with my story of resilience. From addiction to sobriety, from disability to thriving, my journey proves that resilience can transform anyone's life trajectory.