Not long after her mother’s passing, my mom began her endurance racing journey as a single mother of four. What started as an outlet soon became a passion, and she had a talent for making the impossible look effortless. In 2014, after years of relentless pursuit, she reached the pinnacle of Ironman racing - the Kona World Championships - where she placed 9th in the world in her age group. That same year, however, her life changed course once again.

She was diagnosed with Ampulla of Vater cancer and underwent a Whipple surgery. While the procedure was initially successful, complications left her battling recurrent, life-threatening septic episodes for years. Her doctors cycled her through antibiotics, and she underwent two more surgeries, each one buying a little more time but never offering a solution. I later learned that her doctor told her candidly, “if you weren’t as healthy as you are, you would be dead.” It was her lifestyle and commitment to movement that kept her alive.

When time seemed to have nearly run out, her physician heard of a unique surgical option from a German doctor. He learned the procedure and against all odds, her health was stabilized. Though she can no longer compete - at least for now - her resilience, grit, and unwavering spirit remain a daily source of inspiration for me. She is living proof that movement is medicine, and that health, determination, and love can carry you through even the most unthinkable challenges.