Jackie was brave enough to share her very emotional and touching story with all of us. She is living proof to what a supportive environment and community can do to your life, even when you are on the brink of letting everything go. We are so proud to see Jackie’s progress in such a short period of time. Since joining 7 months ago she has undergone not only a physical transformation, but emotional as well.
We are convinced it is not just the diet and exercise that has changed Jackie’s mindset and life, it is also the social support and community support she gets each time she steps foot in the gym. Her story is raw and emotional, and if one person reading this can make some of the changes that she has in her life and model what she is doing, then we feel so grateful for her being so open to share to possibly change another persons life. Here is Jackie’s story, in her own words.
Where were you before you joined and became a member of our gym? How were you feeling?
I was eating and drinking myself to death. I would stay up late and sleep all day, usually at least 12 hours. Although I would drink several energy drinks a day, I always felt exhausted. I was a slug.
What was your turning point when you decided to take action?
My depression had become so severe I no longer wanted to live. I had thoughts almost daily of how I would end my life without devastating my family. I no longer enjoyed activities that were once my favorite, like softball. When I played softball I would get someone to run for me every time I got a base hit, because I believed everyone was making fun of me and my size.
Why had you not joined our gym in the past?
I felt that I was too far gone. I felt that becoming the person I always wanted to be was impossible. I felt like being in a gym would be too uncomfortable.
What happened when you first joined? What surprised you?
The environment in the gym was unreal. I NEVER feel uncomfortable or judged by other members. At the start I was very nervous and felt very insecure. All of that disappeared quickly because of the “family” environment. I was surprised at how quickly I became stronger! Within weeks I could do things I never could have imagined doing in the beginning.
How do you feel now?
I feel like a different person. I feel stronger physically and emotionally! I now am excited about what life has in store for me.