One of the reasons Michelle and I started this site was to inspire women to be the best versions of themselves that they can be. We wanted to help combat the negative stigma attached to the word “fat” by redefining it, while also reducing women’s stereotypes about aging. We think it is inspiring to read about other women’s health and fitness success stories.

There are so many women who have found a way to either successfully overcome health and weight issues, or who have managed to maintain a lifelong fitness regimen allowing them to ward off health and weight issues. We are going to start showcasing “real women” with “real” lives who we think are great role models for all women! Sometimes all it takes is one positive story to give a hopeless person the extra boost of motivation that she needs! These stories are from ”Real Women” Fit After Thirty Hottys submitted by readers. Our first story was submitted by Anh Fergis from Scottsdale, Arizona

ANH FERGIS’ STORY

My name is Anh Fergis.  I’m 39 years old standing tall at 5’3”, married to a wonderful man for eight years (12 years total), and have the greatest 13 month old daughter.  Our “family” leisure time consists of traveling for archaeological purposes, such as searching and discovering prehistoric arrowheads and potteries. We enjoy deep sea fishing excursions in tropical waters.  And, we love making new friends abroad and learn different cultures from countries we have visited. My husband and I have the same passion, so we started inspiring our daughter to take the same path at the age of three months. 

Prior to my pregnancy, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer at the age of 35.  After having neck surgery, radiation, and six months of detoxifying, we decided to get pregnant. It was a miracle that we gave birth to our beautiful daughter, Anika.  My biggest fear during my pregnancy was the cancer showing up again, in which I was afraid my body wouldn’t be able to handle it, especially at my current age. 

Throughout my pregnancy, I ate healthy foods, including juiced fruits and vegetables, and rewarded myself with chocolate gelatos every night!  Meanwhile, I exercised regularly and maintained a healthy diet.  Overall, with an appetite of a horse, I gained about 40 lbs.  After the pregnancy, I did experience a mild depression.  It took me 2 months to gain control and get my energy back to start new with our daughter.   

After the fourth month of my daughter’s birth, I received great news that my cancer have not come back.  I was ecstatic! I became motivated and signed up with a personal fitness trainer to help boost my mental stability.  It was the best move I’ve ever done.  I worked out twice a week for three months.   

During the training, I really started watching what I put in my mouth (Naked green machine every morning), but still had the big appetite, because I was still breastfeeding.  I’ve made peace with my body by making a deal with myself:  As long I eat what I want, I am going to work out.  I’m not trying to lose weight,  just beginning a new semi healthy lifestyle.  So now, I’m eating every three hours like my daughter.  Anika is on a very healthy dietary plan which helped me curve my high sodium and fat intake.  Aside from this, my daily exercise is playing with my child and getting involved in active activities. I’ve lost all my baby weight, gained self esteem and I’m mentally strong. 

Every now and then, I still go through my “slump” period of no motivation and eventually pig out.  I let myself enjoy the slump and hope that I can talk myself into getting back the mojo. I think most people go through this, but the trick is to not get stuck there too long!