This story is truly inspirational! A young beautiful lady who has faced VERY serious challenges in life at such a young age, BUT finds the right mind set and support team to change what she can change…her HEALTH and FITNESS!

 I loved Katie the day she walked through my doors and I have refused to give up on her throughout her challenges. She will reach her goals as she has what it takes; determination, a great fiancé (who is so supportive), family, and her second family at Get A Grip Totall Fitness!

She inspires us all daily. Here is her story…

Throughout my entire childhood I was a competitive swimmer. Having a great aunt who was in the Olympics always inspired me to enjoy competition and preserver in terms of athletic achievement. However, when I moved away to college I stopped swimming and turned to food for comfort. Creating bad eating habits and poor exercise choices over the past seven years lead to a 50lb weight gain.

Thankfully, about two years ago I was referred to work with Carrie by her sister. My fiancé and I met with Carrie and I knew in that moment that she would be the one to help me reach my fitness goals, however as luck would have it, approximately 4 months later I was admitted to the ICU for complications from an appendectomy and peritonitis, leaving me quite close to death, unable to move and facing a long process of undergoing test after test. In addition, during my numerous hospital admissions, it was found that I had a heart pause, a condition where my heart stops approximately once a day for about 5-9 seconds. After going through another slew of tests I found myself depressed. I felt as though I had lost myself within all of my health problems and as though I just couldn’t get out from under them.

Finally, at the beginning of 2011, February 1st to be exact, I promised myself that I would start making changes in my life, especially because I was now engaged and preparing for a wedding in the summer of 2012. I was 25 years old and hopefully, had a very long life to live. Thinking that I couldn’t change my health conditions, I knew I could at least change my diet and weight, hopefully putting me in a better mind frame. Since February 1st I have lost 40 pounds through working with Carrie and the motivational efforts of everyone at Get a Grip Total Fitness. It has been a challenge for sure, going to the boot camps, yoga and run club, but it is THE BEST CHOICE I EVER MADE. Carrie is a constant inspiration and source of motivation for me to keep pushing and moving.  

Furthermore, the atmosphere that she has created at Get a Grip, especially because of her wonderful campers, keeps me on my toes and holds me accountable. I literally owe MY LIFE to Carrie. Without her help I would probably continue having a multitude of health issues and poor self-esteem in terms of my body. I also have to note, that since working with Carrie my health has improved incredibly. I am no longer using any medication original last year for hernias, asthma or my heart. I am also slowly weaning of thyroid medication. Plus, it is amazing how my endurance and flexibility has improved. Never did I think I would be able to run a mile…now I can run 3!

 For those who are thinking about becoming involved with the family at Get a Grip Total Fitness, definitely try it out! Like I said, the best choice I ever made for myself, my health and my family! Carrie and the gang are THE BEST!

Katie Before Picture with her Finance Kevin

Katie AS OF NOW with her Brother

She is truly amazing! Leave a Comment below…