Some people make excuses about why exercise isn't part of their lives. Georgia has made exercise her path to overcoming obstacles so she can enjoy life. Cancer survivor, tennis pro, A Team member and passionate educator. Read Georgia's story and be inspired.
Why exercise? To
avoid surgery, medications with side effects and enjoy life!
Until three years ago, exercise had always been my solution
to any health problems.
- 12 years old scoliosis
diagnosis-surgery and months in body cast or physical therapy-therapy worked
- 20's allergic asthma,
chronic respiratory infections and reduced lung capacity-prescribed
inhaler, antihistamines and frequent cortisone shots. Had to keep vial in refrigerator in case
of anaphylactic shock. Participated
in new experimental therapy involving aerobic exercise. Then there was no need for medication.
Three years ago I hit two obstacles that could not be cured
with exercise but actually prevented it.
First I spent a year fighting and recovering from cancer treatment while
working on National Board Certification. The medication and radiation resulted in
fatigue, chills, memory problems and anxiety.
Then a rash appeared on my arms
and spread all over-was told was stress, all in my mind. After a year of chills, antihistamines, and cortisone
steroids (not a good combination for a middle school teacher-really messes with
your mind) finally diagnosed as scabies-lice type parasite under the skin.
Sixth months ago I was finally “healthy” but very
discouraged by lack of ability to regain former strength. My tennis friends kept me playing but I was
feeling weak and very old. As a result
of all my treatments, I now had dangerously high blood pressure and
osteoporosis. The fear of falling added
to my anxiety. Then several events changed my life.
First, I now knew I
had to “get back in shape” or face the danger of fractures, heart
attack/stroke. Heart attacks and strokes
run in my family. A few weeks later a former student asked for support to
launch a nonprofit that included fitness-an amazing opportunity for
Homewood. I wanted to participate in the
launch’s 5k. I returned to my old gym
and routines but just didn’t have the strength to complete a workout. A trainer showed me how to use the circuit
equipment but took more time to adjust than workout-didn’t seem to see any
improvement. Then, Nivada sent an email
about the A team-an opportunity to work out with her guidance and support.
Last Thursday I completed the entire A Team trail
workout. Then Friday afternoon completed
the 5K-running in the back as pacer/support for those who had never
participated in a run. One of the new
runners was a HHS student who supported her mother, then me as her EL teacher
and this year her brother through cancer treatment. Weeks earlier, she had not thought she could
run 5k. Also running to support was
another former student-Afghanistan /Iraq vet who hadn’t run in years. He was there for his sister the non-profit’s
founder. He commented that I hadn’t
changed in the 20 years since taught him.
I realized this run was a victory for us all-we had regained confidence
and hope that we can create our own wonderful future-anything is possible.
So instead of listing reasons I can’t exercise, I focus on reasons I must: prevent heart disease, cancer,
allergies, osteoporosis-most importantly, so I am happy, healthy and able to do
a job I love well!
