Team BELIEVE
Although Michelle does not personally have diabetes, she sees first hand the seriousness of the disease. From her great grandparents through to her father, a majority of her family members have diabetes. Seeing her loved ones endure the daily struggles, she knows that prevention is critical. Michelle and her sister ensure they get tested for diabetes regularly and encourage everyone else to do the same.
Leading a healthy, active lifestyle are key to preventing diabetes and in February 2011, Michelle, a proud mother of 3 and married for 20 years, decided it was time she made a huge lifestyle change. Overweight and unhappy with herself, Michelle used her family as both support and inspiration to lose 65 pounds and now feels “in love with all life has to offer”. Rejuvenated and ready to run, this woman could not be stopped!
With her newfound lust for life, Michelle registered for the 5km run in the Toronto GoodLife Marathon, a race she had wanted to enter for more than two years before beginning her weight loss journey. With that goal crossed off the list, she is now focusing on her next one - a half marathon on September 23rd in Ottawa with her husband.
Michelle’s family may be her inspiration off the course, but it was her Team Diabetes team mates that provided support during the race. Two fellow Team Diabetes runners ran past Michelle but recognizing the flashy singlet, they turned around to give a brief but encouraging cheer of support. Feeling the team spirit, Michelle pushed hard and crossed the finish line!
With a 5km under her belt and a half marathon on the horizon, Michelle still manages to find time to give back by creating Team BELIEVE. Team BELIEVE is a running and walking group that meets at least once a week to help support others who may be struggling with weight issues. Team BELIEVE enters running or walking events as a team, demonstrating that together, with a little support and motivation from your friends, anything is possible!
When asked why she created the group, she responded, “To make everyone feel they can achieve whatever they set their mind to. No matter what your fitness level, everyone is capable of putting one foot in front of the other and working hard towards accomplishing their goals”.
Having actualized a dream 3 years in the making, Michelle is an inspiration and a force to be reckoned with. She promises she will be back with a vengeance, this time to run the full marathon and to double her fundraising goal, all while proudly wearing the Team Diabetes singlet at the 2013 GoodLife Toronto Marathon!
Check out team photos from the GoodLife Toronto Marathon and other events!
For more information on how you too can make an impact with Team Diabetes, please visit our website at www.teamdiabetes.ca.