My Fitness Journey: From Struggle to Strength I grew up as a chubby kid, often feeling different from my 11 siblings. Teased for how much I ate, food became my comfort. In middle school, I started starving myself, thinking it was the key to fitting in. But I was wrong. The acceptance I sought was always within me. High school brought a turning point. Inspired by my dad, I began running every morning before school. That led to dancing, joining sports, and discovering a newfound confidence. But I still struggled with balancing food and exercise. In college, I spent hours at the gym, using workouts to “earn” my food. Then, a car accident left me bedridden for five months. I lost muscle, gained weight, and felt lost. But that was the moment I decided to reclaim my life. Now, 40 pounds lighter and stronger, I focus on building muscle and embracing a balanced relationship with food and fitness. I’m here to help you do the same.