What are some highlights of your health journey?
I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2008 and at this time I had been the heaviest I have ever been in my life. I was a very petite and small girl growing up, so gaining weight was no fun for me, I guess that is what I get for getting too comfortable with my husband ๐ Since then my diabetes have been up and down, up and down. I found Zumba around the same time through a friend from high school. I absolutely fell in love with it. In 2010 my mother got diagnosed with cancer and later passed away. That was a hard blow to us kids and my dad keeping me away from Zumba and exercising. I had my beautiful son in Dec 2011, and being diabetic I really had to watch what I ate and needed to exercise to maintain my sugars, especially with a baby. I ended up losing 30lbs from being pregnant and then the after math of breast feeding. I was thrilled and wanted to do something to maintain that. After a year of trying to maintain the off weight I couldn’t, so I said I need to do something more fun than a gym.
How did you find PulsePDX?
That is when I found PulsePDX online. I was looking for a place to Zumba again, because I knew that was the most fun I had ever had. I read all about Pulse and said that I needed to go here to check it out. 2014 was a new year for me, I had a new position in my job and wanted it to be a new me. I stepped into Jennifer and Julio’s class and instantly fell in love. The atmosphere of the night club as well as NO MIRRORS was so awesome! I can just be me and dance without wondering if I am doing it right!
Whatโs your favorite thing about Pulse?
Pulse PDX is AHHHHMMMMAAAYZING!! The first time I stepped into Pulse PDX (back in the Refuge days) I loved the atmosphere the energy, the peopleโฆ the VIBE!!
PulsePDX Master Class with Abraham Hernandez
What role does Pulse play in your fitness routine?
Pulse has played a huge part in my fitness routine. Since I have started Pulse, I have lost 37lbs, 22inches, and no longer am insulin dependant. I also am a ZIN member and licenced to teach Zumba! Not only do I get to go to a place where I can wind down from my day and dance the night away, I see wonderful people on the same journey as I am on and with so much support! The stage is a huge confidence booster as well. I love that the teachers encourage us to go up there and dance with them. The Pulse family, from the employees, to the teachers, to the people that dance next to me are so wonderful! It really is Pulse Magic when you walk in the door to PulsePDX.
Rock the Boat 2014 with Scott and Michael
What do you do when you arenโt dancing around with us?
Talking about Zumba!! LOL ๐ I love it so much I tell everyone about it! I even Zumba when I am away from home for work. When I can get chances to get into ZIN classes or jam sessions I will be there! This will help me to expand my knowledge of Zumba and routines. I love dancing at home and teaching my son some zumba moves! When we can, date nights are aw lays fun with my guys!
Party in Pink Fundraiser with Pam, Vikki, Jennifer and Alisa
I love PulsePDX! Thank you for giving me this opportunity to share! See you in class!