We’ve all heard the heartfelt declaration, “I would die for my children.” It’s the ultimate expression of love, a powerful promise that any parent or grandparent can relate to. But let’s flip that narrative for a moment. Dying for your children is noble, yes, but what about living for them? Not just existing, but truly living — choosing health, energy, and vitality so you can show up for them in every way that matters.
I’ll admit, I personally hadn’t thought much about this until recently. Sure, I’ve always said I’d die for my children, and I’ve wanted to live for them, but I never stopped to consider the true depth of what that really means, or how crucial the message is. Would I take the hard steps to get healthy, to be present not only for their big milestones but also for the small, everyday moments that make life so meaningful? That realization hit me like a bolt of lightning on my weight loss journey.
It wasn’t just about shedding pounds, it was about fighting for a future with them. It was about ensuring I’d be there to cheer them on, to laugh with them, to guide them, and to love them for as many years as possible. That shift in perspective wasn’t just a game-changer, it was life-changing. It’s one thing to say you’d die for your kids. It’s another thing entirely to live for them, every single day.
The Moment of Truth
For me, the realization hit me like a ton of bricks. At 61, weighing 141 pounds more than I do now, I wasn’t living my best life. Sure, I was getting by, but I wasn’t thriving. I’d spent decades telling myself I’d do anything for my family, yet I wasn’t taking care of my health. My wake-up call wasn’t a single dramatic event but a series of moments, trying to catch my breath after bending over to tie my shoes, avoiding family photos because I didn’t like what I saw, and realizing I couldn’t keep up with the people I love most.
Health: The Ultimate Gift
When I finally decided to reclaim my health, I thought about what it would mean for my children and (someday) my grandchildren. It wasn’t just about losing weight, it was about being present. Being healthy meant more energy to play, more years to share, and more memories to create. It meant being able to say yes to life, whether that’s chasing a grandchild around the yard or traveling to see them graduate.
Think about it: What better gift can you give your loved ones than the best version of yourself? Being there for them in good health, both physically and emotionally, is priceless. And the best part? Getting healthy isn’t just for them, it’s for you too. It’s about reclaiming your joy and rediscovering what makes life vibrant.
The Tough Love We All Need
Let’s be honest: making the decision to prioritize your health isn’t easy. It’s tempting to put it off, especially when life gets busy. But here’s the tough truth, it’s not just about you. When you neglect your health, the ripple effect extends to your family. Your loved ones want you around, not just existing but thriving.
I had to face some uncomfortable truths on my journey. I told myself I was too busy, too tired, or just not ready. But when I flipped the narrative and asked, “What kind of example am I setting? What kind of legacy am I leaving?” everything changed. That was the fuel I needed to start my transformation.
The Steps That Changed My Life
Transformation didn’t happen overnight. It was a series of intentional steps, and each one was driven by my desire to be there for my family, and myself. Here’s what worked for me:
- Commitment
This journey wasn’t just another diet or a fleeting attempt to lose weight; it was a profound, unwavering commitment to myself and my loved ones. I resolved to prioritize my health and well-being, recognizing that every choice, what to eat, how to stay active, and when to rest, carried weight far beyond the moment. This commitment became my anchor, guiding me through challenges and reinforcing my determination to transform my life for the better. - Accountability
I couldn’t do it alone, and thankfully, I didn’t have to. All those closest to me became my accountability partners in their own way. From my nutritionist, who diligently tracked my progress, to my family and friends who cheered me on, everyone played a role in keeping me motivated and honest. Their support, encouragement, and belief in my ability to succeed created a network of accountability that fueled my determination. Together, we turned my journey into a collective effort, proving that with the right people by your side, no challenge is insurmountable. - Healthy Eating
Ah, the days of mindless snacking, how I miss you, my dear late-night potato chips and drive-thru burgers, fries and milkshakes. You were always there for me, but let’s be honest, you weren’t exactly helping me out. I had to break up with my old habits and redefine my relationship with food. Instead of eating out of boredom or habit, I started to see meals as opportunities to fuel my body and reach my goals. My plate went from a carnival of fried indulgence to a colorful garden of lean proteins, whole grains, and veggies. Don’t get me wrong, there’s still the occasional indulgence, but now, it’s intentional, not impulsive. And let me tell you, broccoli doesn’t talk back the way that double bacon cheeseburger did. - Exercise
Exercise became my daily non-negotiable, but I wasn’t content with just breaking a sweat, I wanted adventure. My trusty Hydrow rowing machine turned my office into a passport to the world, letting me glide across the Thames, paddle through Norwegian fjords, or conquer a misty morning on Great Herring Pond. And then there’s my 50-pound weighted vest, affectionately nicknamed “The Beast.” Walking with it became my version of extreme sport, as I imagined myself training for some apocalyptic scenario involving uphill battles and grocery bags. Exercise wasn’t just about burning calories, it was about reclaiming my strength and discovering the confidence to carry not just weight, but life, differently. - Medical Supervision and Zepbound
Under my doctor’s guidance, incorporating Zepbound into my journey proved to be a pivotal decision. This medication became a game-changer, helping me curb persistent cravings and maintain focus on my goals. However, I viewed it not as a magic solution but as a powerful tool that complemented my commitment and the lifestyle changes I was embracing. With regular medical supervision, I ensured a balanced approach, using Zepbound as part of a broader strategy that included accountability, exercise, and healthy eating habits. This partnership between medical science and personal effort became a cornerstone of my success. - Mindset Shift
One of the most profound changes in my journey was transforming my mindset from “I have to” to “I get to.” This shift reframed every healthy choice as an opportunity rather than a burden. Suddenly, exercising wasn’t just about burning calories, it became a privilege to move my body and build strength. Preparing nutritious meals, with the help of my loving family, was a chance to fuel my future. By focusing on gratitude and viewing each small step as a meaningful investment in myself, I was able to stay motivated and embrace the process, even on the toughest days. This mindset shift became the cornerstone of my transformation. - Working with a Nutritionist
Partnering with a nutritionist was one of the most important decisions I made on this journey. Having a professional guide me through the process ensured I had a personalized plan tailored to my needs and goals. My nutritionist didn’t just provide me with meal plans and advice, she held me accountable and offered support when I needed it most. With access to my iHealth scale data and monitored weigh-ins, she helped me stay on track and adjust my approach when necessary. This partnership reinforced the importance of having a knowledgeable ally who could provide both guidance and motivation.
Breaking the Cycle
For many of us, unhealthy habits are deeply rooted in our upbringing. We grew up in households where comfort food was equated with love, exercise was rarely a focus, and “treating yourself” often meant overindulgence. But here’s the empowering truth: cycles can be broken. By taking control of your health, you’re not just transforming your own life, you’re creating a new, healthier legacy for your family. You’re teaching your children and grandchildren that health is a priority, that change is always possible, and that self-care is one of the most profound acts of love. And through it all, practicing gratitude for the journey, both the challenges and victories, helps keep you grounded and motivated to continue forward.
The Power of Community
One of the most transformative aspects of my journey has been the community I’ve built through this blog. Sharing my story has connected me with people from all walks of life who are on similar journeys. Together, we celebrate victories, learn from setbacks, and remind each other that we’re not alone.
This community is for you too. Whether you’re just starting out or well on your way, you have a place here. Share your story, ask questions, and find inspiration in others. Together, we’re stronger, and together, we’re proving that it’s never too late to reclaim, renew, and revive.
The Joy of Being Present
When I look back on my journey, one of the greatest rewards has been the ability to be fully present. Whether it’s enjoying a family gathering, traveling without worrying about stamina, or simply feeling comfortable in my own skin, the benefits go far beyond the scale. Life isn’t just happening to me, I’m living it fully, and that’s a gift I wish for everyone.
Imagine the Possibilities
Take a moment to imagine what your life could look like if you made your health a priority. Picture yourself with more energy, more confidence, and more time to do the things you love with the people you care about most. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about showing up for yourself so you can show up for others.
Your Turn
This blog isn’t just about my story, it’s about yours too. What would getting healthy mean for you and your family? What steps can you take today to invest in your future? I invite you to join this community, share your journey, and take that first step toward a healthier, more vibrant life.
So, I ask you: Would you get healthy for your children? Your grandchildren? For yourself? The choice is yours, and the time is now.
