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By 2014, I was using a walker, a service dog, and a full-time caregiver. Ironically, I had been my parent’s caregiver before their deaths and was legally responsible for their health and wellness decisions. Looking back, I wish I had known more treatment options and had been a better advocate for my parents. And there was no one to advocate for me. My fifth surgery was on the calendar in one month. Yet I was wasting away, my organs were failing, and although I had excellent private and socialized health insurance, the specialists didn’t know how to help me get better. One day, I didn’t think I would survive the night. It had been five weeks since I could eat or drink. I said my goodbyes to my faithful dog, Phoebe, and was grateful for the life I had lived and prepared for what would happen next.

Today, I’m an all-around adventure sportswoman. I’ve ditched my walker and found unconditional happiness. My service dog is now a semi-retired family pet. In addition to writing and motivational speaking, I’ve become a model and national brand ambassador for several top-tier adventure sports companies. And I’m an adventure lifestyle influencer in my philanthropic work.

Through my journey, I have rediscovered the healing power of nature, and it’s my life’s mission to reconnect folks to the outdoors. After all, outdoor recreation is at the intersection of health, wellness, conservation, and adventure, and we all have a natural right to nature. However, I’m no one special. I’m an ordinary person with average abilities. Everything that’s within me exists inside you, too. You only need to choose your new normal and create the biggest life you can envision.

If you’re ready to have the energy and mental and physical health needed to build the life you always wanted, your free help is here.