I'm a 38 year old divorced Latina with two boys, ages 8 and 15, and heart disease runs in my family.

 

As a busy working Mom and the sole provider of my family, I worked and played hard. I fulfilled my family obligations by attending the children's school functions or organizing family gatherings. I marked occasions around meals. The meals were a part of who we were, and they were unhealthy. I did not want my sons to lack what they would have had in a two family household; as a result, I overcompensated, sleeping 4-5 hours a day and grabbing a cup of coffee whenever I needed a pick me up.

 

During my family's last medical check-up, I was diagnosed with high cholesterol and so was my teen. That day was an eye opener! I had to change for myself and for my children.

 

Since than, I've learned to make healthier choices. I very rarely fry and now bake most of our meals. We eat more vegetable and fruits. We rarely drink soda, opting for water instead. We've also discovered each other and the power of family. We talk more, laugh more and play more. We no longer use food as a reward, instead realizing that our victories, our triumphs, taste that much sweeter when they are savored on their own! 

 

I also had to learn to say "No". I had to slow down and get at least 7-8 hours sleep. I had to incorporate physical activities in our lives.  By doing this, my sons and I have not only gotten healthier, but closer. Others also noticed our changes and joy, causing a ripple effect.

 

Its been said that it takes a community to raise a child, I want to take it a step further and say it takes a community to get healthy. Sharing my story with others would be my part in building that community and continuing the wave's ripple effect!