18 years ago when I was in 9th grade I was at my heaviest.

I was 50 pounds heavier than I am now.

I was eating and drinking everything I wanted.

I was going down the wrong path.

I put an end to it.

I started running and training.

15 years later I’m at my lightest since middle school.

I’m the fittest I’ve ever been in my entire life.

It didn’t come easy and naturally.

I worked hard for it.

11 years ago I graduated from college.

I was lost and confused.

9 years ago I lost my mom to suicide.

Following my graduation and my mom’s death, I was severely depressed.

I struggled with disordered eating.

All I wanted to do was sleep.

And die.

I wanted to die.

I’ve come a long way.

I’ve been working on myself physically and mentally for years.

I’ve dedicated my life to living healthy.

I’m still a work in progress.

I still have a ways to go.

The reason I write this is because I know what it’s like to struggle physically and mentally.

I know what it’s like to have zero self-esteem and zero self-confidence.

Running and strength training changed my life physically and mentally.

Reading, learning, and writing have helped me tremendously mentally.

I hope this gives you hope.

I want you to know that you too can get better.

You have the power to change.

Take care of yourself.

Take care of your health.

I want you to be healthy.

I want you to feel good.

I want you to be happy.