I struggled with weight issues since high school. Being surrounded by tempting treats and lacking self-control, I found comfort in unhealthy eating habits. My parents worked long hours, leaving me to rely on nearby pizzerias and Chinese restaurants for meals. An incident during ice hockey and a disappointing prom experience made me realize I wanted to change. However, over the next 20 years, I was trapped in a cycle of yo-yo dieting and frustration. On my 40th birthday, I finally understood I needed a lifestyle change, not just another diet. I learned to fuel my body through proper nutrition, including meal prepping for success. Weightlifting became a crucial part of my routine alongside cardio.