It has been awhile since an inspirational story has been posted and this one from Heather Fisher could not have come at a better time.  As you read Heather’s story, you will see the impact that our local YMCA has had not only on Heather, but in our community.   The YMCA is all about providing a safe, healthy place for kids and adults to be active.  There are those individuals that give so much to the Y.   And the Y gives so much more back to members, non-members, and the community.  The Y has been a staple in this community for years and they always have something going on.  One of their big events of the year is the Sweat-a-thon which is next month (March 5th).  You can still register online at https://bbjymca.formstack.com/forms/sweat_a_thon. It is a great way to be active for a good cause and meet new friends.  If you have any questions, you can contact the Y at 765-342-6688.

Now on to Heather’s story….

Hi, I am Heather Fisher and I want to share my Y experience with you! I joined the YMCA a year and half ago. I came here looking to lose weight which is what I did. I was not always heavy. I had always lead an active lifestyle. I graduated high school in 2009, married my high school sweetheart in 2012, found out I was pregnant in 2012, and had my son in 2013. Pregnancy is where my weight gain took place. I was always hungry, being pregnant I expected that. A few months into my pregnancy I found out that I had gestational diabetes. I  had never had any health issues to that point. So I had to change my eating to keep my baby and myself healthy, safe, and without insulin shots during pregnancy. I had a hard time with the eating change because I had never had to deal with anything like that before. I knew I had gained weight during pregnancy, but I didn’t realize how much.

In March 2013 I had my son. The nurse came in and told me to eat whatever I wanted, so I ordered pizza and had pop. From there I went back to my bad eating habits. I continued my bad eating habits for a few months. I saw a picture of myself one day and that was my breaking point! That is where I realized how far I had let myself go. I wasn’t happy with myself at all. That’s when I decided it was time for change! I needed to be healthy for my family and for myself. I started eating less, walking, and joined a Zumba class at my church. I wanted to be more active so I joined the Y. I started doing fitness classes there. I had people motivating and pushing me to do better. I did and I lost 76 pounds. I now exercise at least 60 minutes a day, eat clean, and use portion control. The Y and the people there changed my life! Fitness, clean eating, and helping others is my passion! I want to help you!

Thank you Heather for sharing your story.  Keep on inspiring!