This month’s Woman of The Month may just look familiar to some of you and that’s because she has been featured in Maxim magazine 5 times, as well as appearing in FHM and doing TV shows such as ‘Fear Factor’, ‘The Millionaire Matchmaker’, ’24 Hour Restaurant Battle’ and many others.

On top of this she has managed to find the time to compete in four figure shows and maintain a high position in the Weight Watchers organization.

Totally deserving the title Kick Ass Woman, I am sure you will agree!

But there is even more to Dana as she revealed to me in this recent interview. Read on and be even more inspired!

First of all can you tell us a little about your background?

“I am Italian and I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York by my father and grandmother.”

I recall reading that you were in a pretty severe road accident; can you tell us a little about that?

“Sure, I was on my way to college in Staten Island. I was driving on the Verrazano Bridge when I was side-swiped by a sleeping trucker in an 18 wheeler. My car spun out of control as I tried to get away from him and I was hit again by another 18 wheeler head on. I did not have my seatbelt on, because of that I was sent into the passenger side of my car on the floor and escaped this accident with only 25 stitches to the left rear delt. I don’t remember much after the second truck hit. Thankfully some woman stayed and called 911. Oddly enough I never knew who she was. The trucks both were hit and runs. I was in physical therapy for almost 2 years after the accident. It was a tumultuous two years, but it was also the start of a stronger and more spiritual me. I knew I was put on this earth for a reason and I was going to try and make every day count.”

Would you say that the recovery process from that was what prompted you to start working out seriously?

“During physical therapy I started working with resistance bands and other exercise equipment. It was funny because after a while I started to see little muscles. I loved it! After I was fully recovered I hired a personal trainer and this is where my journey began. I was 20 years old. My personality leads me towards perfectionism. I love to learn and when I am interested in something, I want to know everything about it. I grew to love bodybuilding. So yes, I guess you could say the accident prompted me to take weight-lifting more seriously.”

You made your way pretty quickly after that onto the pages of FHM and Maxim, how did that all come about?

I waitressed and bartended to put myself through Pre-Law at St. John’s University. While working, a friend, who is now a well-renowned photographer, always took pictures of us after our shifts. He was convinced I needed to start modeling and told me my photographs were amazing. One day we did a test shoot and behind my back he sent my pictures to FHM. A week later I got a phone call that I was to be featured in the next month’s centerfold. I couldn’t even believe it! After that appearance I started to get a lot of phone calls for different job offers in the modeling industry. Maxim was one of them… I was featured in Maxim 5 times after my first appearance. It kind of all flowed with the natural order of the way things were meant to be.”

You have also done quite a few TV shows, which would you say was your favorite experience to date?

“Yes, I have. My favorite by far was Fear Factor. I love to challenge myself. I met a lot of great people on the show and I really enjoyed the experience.”

Turning our attention elsewhere, I believe you play a very active role in the Weight Watchers organization. How did you get involved with that?

“I have been working in very large law firms for over 10 years now. One day while in talks with an entertainment agent, he mentioned that he had a job opening in a company that he thought I would be a perfect fit for. It ended up being Weightwatchers! I work for the General Counsel and Legal team of the Company and I love the idea of being able to work for a cause that I believe in.”

What do you find is the biggest obstacle people have to overcome within themselves when it comes to losing weight?

“I find that we are all our own worst enemy. Including myself. You have to want to do something and believe with all your heart that you can. If you don’t believe in yourself no one will. This has always been my most important lesson. If you believe you can achieve.”

How do you feel an organization like Weight Watchers really assists people to not only lose weight but to maintain that weight loss?

“I think it is an amazing company. It is also important that the Company really gives people the ability to lose weight while eating the things that they enjoy. Not everyone can be on a pre-contest diet. It allows people to go out and socialize while being able to enjoy the same foods as everyone else. It gives you the tools to lose weight even while leading a normal life.”

With so many things going on in your life where would you say your focus is going to be in the next couple of years?

“I competed for 2 years straight. I recently started a new job. I am going to try and sit back and take life as it comes. I would love to meet someone and start a family. If I am lucky enough to have that happen, that would be my focus in the next couple/few years. Of course I will still train hard and live an active lifestyle as well.”

Having accomplished so much at this point in your life are there any words of advice/encouragement you would like to pass on to anyone reading this who wants to make a life change but just does not know where to begin?

“Well, I didn’t know anything about training or dieting. I literally picked up every book or magazine I could find that would help me learn more about different exercises and tricks to help build muscle. You have to self-educate. You cannot always rely on a trainer telling you what to do or what to eat. It then becomes too easy to not have it be a lifestyle and more of a habit that can easily change. Everything you do should be a part of you, it should be something you are knowledgeable about and that you have a passion and love for. When you love what you do, success comes easy. Believe in yourself!”

Finally, how can people contact you?            

Only1life23@yahoo.com

Lee Penman

This month’s Woman Of The Month is Honnor Moore. I first met Honnor about a year ago and, even though our first meeting was relatively short, she made an immediate and lasting impression on me.

Courageous,intelligent, motivating and inspiring are just a few of the adjectives that immediately come to mind when it comes to describing her. Honnor’s story is a supreme example of triumph over adversity and it seems no matter what happens to her she bounces back stronger and more motivated than before.

They say that a good fighter is not one who never gets knocked down on the canvas but one that when knocked down just keeps getting up and fighting on…to victory.

Honnor Moore is one of life’s great fighters and as you read her story I am sure you will agree she is also one of life’s true Kick Ass Women!

For people out there reading this who are unfamiliar with your story, let’s back track to over a decade ago when you began to feel that ‘something’ was not right in terms of your health. What symptoms did you start to experience?

“The year 1997, I had my son in February. The year leading up to his birth was a difficult year in many ways before I had him by c-section. Post partum, there were other cervical problems I needed to tend too as well as two root canals on the same tooth.  By September of that year, my hands began to scream in pain, and some of my fingers would get stuck at the joint.”

When you went to the doctor and were handed the diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis what emotions were you feeling and what thoughts were going through your mind?

“When my doctor told me my condition was incurable, chronic and increasingly debilitating I thought she had the wrong patient. I though she was erring on the side of the worst. In my heart and mind I was certain she was underestimating my ability to come through this health challenge.”

I believe the doctor told you that your career would be over in two years and that you would be confined to a wheelchair in five. Now, rather than go into acceptance, you decided to fight back leading you to Mexico and a very forward thinking Medical Center. Care to share what happened there?

“Yes, she indicated the state of RA in my body was very aggressive. I did not agree. I knew I was not meant for a life of debilitation and despair. The treatment she explained had hard side effects but I understood it would improve my quality of life and slow down the disease…although not eliminate it.

I always believed that the best way to approach a difficult health challenge is more about nature – natural remedies and balance. These are things our bodies are made of and can recognize….so much better than harsh pharmaceuticals.
When I first wanted to go to Sanoviv Medical Institute, I could not afford it so I put it on my vision board and kept doing everything I could to gain control of the disease.

In an absolutely dire condition, I finally got to Sanoviv in Feb 2008, 11 years into the crazy disease. I left Canada in a wheelchair and came back walking well on my own 31 days later. Many doubted that my return would be alive!”

The next goal you set for yourself was entering a fitness contest in Canada, what made you decide to pursue that?

“Pure Vanity as a tool to keep my body together and the distraction of a seemingly impossible goal to prove I was the boss of me.”

I would imagine working out in a gym would be difficult enough at times far less getting ready for a show. How did you go about managing the stress of working out with a contest as a goal and what obstacles did you have to overcome in the process?

“There were incredibly stressful hurdles, very private intense painful ones to be honest. I kept believing I would get through this, heal my body and kept loving life with my child the best I could.

In fitness training, I adapted everything that I did to accommodate fragility and compromise.  I created my own adaptive gear to work with my compromised grip, wore funky fitness shoes to support the bones in my feet, carefully worked on core strength to stabilize and protect spine deterioration.

To manage stress, I love to write music and sing, so I would do that.

 I sought spiritual guidance and balance. I still pray and meditate. Living, loving and laughing with my child. I attended sessions with a medical social worker and still do.”

I believe contest day itself was a very emotional and liberating experience for you?

“Meeting my fitness goals and entering a contest regardless of my setbacks was very confirming for me. We are victorious, first in our own battle within and then our own battle on the outside. People will see the battle you show them, you show victory- they see Victory WITH you. You show defeat, the feel defeat with you. Ultimately, we are to script our own victory… all the way from start to finish- and the world will agree. J”

So let’s fast forward to today. Can you tell us about your design business?

“Yes! Thank you for asking….

My interior design firm is Honnor Moore Studio in which I am Principal.

My mission is to design spaces that heal. Your home is the only place where you can hide and heal.

We design interiors, residential and commercial employing the five elements of nature, because this is where we balance, in nature. Our five senses and five elements are our home… we design them into 4 dimensions to surround our clients with harmony and happiness.

We are excited to offer our own signature interiors online.”

As taxing as that business may be you have a MUCH bigger project in the works. I will leave you to announce it……

“LIVEABLE SOCIETY –Fitness & Health for People with Disability…A society formed as a centre point for solutions for living an able life no matter what your health challenges may be and what we have to deal with in live…first we must LIVE ABLE to live well.”

I have a feeling that LiveABLE Society will help a lot of people and really change the way we view people with health challenges. For your own part, and in closing, could you tell us what this illness has taught you and how it has impacted the way you view life?

“LIVEABLE is being created for people to find solutions and possibilities to overcome the difficulty of this moment, so the next is easier. One moment at a time, because living with a physical adversity from day to day is living and winning from moment to moment.”

Finally how can readers contact you?

Liveablesociety@gmail.com

 

“I came to win, to fight, to conquer, to thrive
I came to win, to survive, to prosper, to rise
to fly….”

Opening lines from a Nicki Minaj song that cling to the life journey of Holly Stanbrough like a perfectly tailored suit. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2002, Holly has risen phoenix like from this devastating news and turned her life around in so many ways that you cannot fail to be inspired by her story.

So take a moment out of your day to enter her world and discover once again the power of the human spirit….

What was your life like before you were diagnosed with MS? What were your plans and where was your life headed? 

“My life was the simple busy family lifestyle – fairly carefree with ups and downs – wife, mother and a career.   I had seen each day as having yet another day.   Yes, I had goals, mostly directed towards raising my daughter and being a good wife and the best employee.  In so many words, I set my personal goals and dreams aside for those things I felt were the priority, the role of parent and wife.  In all reality, I lost a portion of my own identity not realizing until this diagnoses.”

When did you first notice that something was ‘wrong’?

“My physical health gradually declined over a 3 week period and eventually became debilitating.   Initially, the doctors thought I was suffering from a simple inner ear infection.  As the weeks progressed my balance became more and more challenging.   However my symptoms appeared to be more “viral” than a chromic condition or life threatening illness.    I continued to seek out medical care and treatment attempting to address difficulty with balance, coordination and walking.   I finally got to a point where I was unable to walk normally, drive and had a slight loss of vision.  I was finally referred to an ophthalmologist, due to this decline and vision loss.   That appointment lead me down a road I thought I would never be traveling.  That day I went from thinking, all I needed is a simple prescription for a silly annoying virus to facing the possibility of an incurable disease.  I was given the probability of facing, a brain tumor, aneurism, graves disease or MS.  I quickly asked, the ophthalmologist, if I could have option (E) – none of the above.  I was immediately seen by a neurologist,  which resulted in a variety of medical tests and screens, more MRI’s and spinal taps, until the diagnosis was confirmed, I had MS.”

Can you recall the day you were officially diagnosed?

“The fear I experienced that day was paralyzing.  I felt I was losing total control of my life, the goals, the dreams I had were fading before my eyes.  I felt powerless in this diagnosis.  I simply couldn’t grasp what horrible thing I had done to deserve this, why me?  I simply shrunk inside and felt like a coward, felt I had no fight left, the courage I had always found during adversity, was gone.   My emotions were overwhelming, engulfed me, directing me to a place that was dark, the harshness of this reality was difficult to face.  I had always felt in control and strong, this took me to another level of inner strength.

The day I was told I had a chronic incurable disease is the day I saw the life as I knew it to be over. 

As I soul searched and looked for answers to ‘WHY?’ the anger of feeling robed and cheated out of my life’s dreams overwhelmed me but  I had to come to terms with this illness to be able to move out of the darkness and find peace, find  reason.   I had to search within the diagnosis to find a possible new way of life for me.  I just had to believe in me, in my faith and in my strength, I would find the meaning, a new way to see life, an opportunity to see not the quantity of years lived but the quality of years lived.  The ‘why’ is easy to see after that, it was a blessing – I was chosen to help others thought this journey.  I now see it as an honor to be picked.”

There must have been moments of fear and doubt – how did you overcome those and decide to take control of your life in a very positive and pro active way?

“I am a true believer in the power of BELIEVING. When you BELIEVE you can overcome and achieve.  I simply had lost this for a moment, in self pity and fear of losing ME, my dreams and the future I had planned in my head. I had to re evaluate life and realize it was not something simply owed to me but a gift to me.”

You have mentioned that training and nutrition have played a key part in controlling symptoms. What changes did you implement in this respect?
“For many years, I had been a semi – vegetarian.   This truly limited my protein intake (at least the way I chose to eat).  As I began to train, a good friend sat me down and talked with me about the impact of protein, muscle growth, fat burning and training.  As an RN, I knew nutrition but didn’t understand its impact at this level.  Given that the majority of people with MS have a chronic Vitamin B deficiency, causing muscle soreness, fatigue, joint pain, limiting my protein intake only compounded my issues.  When I increased the protein in my diet the symptoms I was experiencing began to decrease and diminish becoming more tolerable and my quality of life began improve.   I began researching nutrition more, hydration, chemicals and impurities in my foods etc.  Since the diagnoses of MS, in 2002; I was unable to make it to my scheduled Neurologist appointment, without having an emergency visit for steroid treatments, MRI’s to treat a flare up etc.  By evaluating my nutrition with careful respect to my symptoms and training, I have respectfully captured what I call “remission” since June 2010.  Even though, MS is not recognized as an illness that is ever in remission, I believe it can be.” 

What do you think of the various drugs and treatments currently available to those with MS?

“I believe there are many medications available on the market that are beneficial … However none of them help symptom control or cure the illness.  They only help by attempting to keep the disease dormant.   They have NO effect on the daily symptoms that people suffer every day.  They do NOT make you feel better, see better, walk speak or think better but they hopefully slow the progression of the illness.   However this is often a shot in the dark,   MS is still very much a mystery and it is not understood why people are stricken with it, what causes it and why some people’s illness progresses fast and others slowly.   Unfortunately with medications like this comes cost, the cost of MS medications are not economical and often unaffordable.  Even with insurance, one could pay hundreds to thousands of dollars for this shimmer of hope.”

This past year you earned your pro card and were named in top 100 fitness models an in the 2011 Who’s Who in professional women in the US. Pretty impressive would be an understatement! How far would you like to take your fitness career?

“My biggest ‘life’ goal which involves fitness would be to travel the world speaking on the gift of life, inspire those who suffer or question their purpose in life.  To, reach out to those who are suffering or have suffered and help them find the tiny sparkle of hope for one more day.  My fitness / my modeling are avenues that I respect a great deal.  It has offered me an opportunity to talk with people, to touch lives I would not have had the opportunity to touch.  In turn, they have all touched mine and it leaves me feeling speechless and truly blessed each day.   Each day I wake I see more promise and more strength, simply with the incredible people that surround me, near and far.  Without the diagnosis – without this illness – the “gift”, I would not have this opportunity “

You have also written one book and are planning another one….and I have a feeling  that there is even more on the horizon in terms of goals….care to share a few?

“Book two “The Companion” is a collection of Inspirational poetry and daily quotes.   I am also striving to start my own clothing line called Flexy by Design.  I was given a nickname by a dear friend who always believed my fight, always called me “sexy Flex” so with a little twist I came up with a catchy logo – FLEXY.  The campaign to create this line of fitness clothes, t- shirts ,  gym bags and fitness gear with a trendy but powerful slogan to empower people to get and stay healthy..  Flexy by Design is the new sexy!”

What would you say your mission is at this point is….and your message to those challenged by MS?

“My Passion is my mission…to Change the Faces of MS. I am beginning a new journey, I am fortunate to have been given this opportunity ~ I feel passionate about helping others that suffer with chronic illness.  I challenged everyone to help me, in this call to change the face of MS….It does not have to be a life once lived, dreams faded, and days of just memories of what could have been… it can be!
It can be a life filled with an abundance dreams and never ending memories … living beyond your potential.  Hoping to give others positive energy to fight, to live, to find themselves and live their life peacefully.   Simply hoping to give hope and be impactful.   My mission is my story, my life – to help change the face of MS”

Any final thoughts you would like to share?

“Courage is contagious; when we take a stand the foundation for others is often strengthened.    It only takes one person to inspire and enroll the world!”

Don’t look upon the world with fear ~ hold the hand of courage and walk away – walk with me and join me!!

 At the risk of sounding like a broken record (oops, too late, right!) the women who appear on this site never cease to amaze me with their inspiring stories of personal success. This month’s Woman of the Month, Erika Thompson, is no exception. From humble beginnings in Uruguay she has risen to become more than just a rising star in the fitness modeling industry. Her meteoric success marked with magazine covers and fitness spreads has made her name a buzz word in the industry.

Read on and find out more about this truly KickAssWoman and get ready to hear a lot more from her in future as it looks like, despite her impressive list of achievements to date, she has only just begun her journey to success!

I understand you were born in Uruguay and now live in LA. How easy was the adjustment?

“I have lived in this beautiful city for the last 13 years. It’s been years of learning how to get around the city. It does not compare to the place I come from, but I love this City. I have learned to work hard in this country, through hard work and setting goals you can achieve many things. The opportunity to be part of the fitness world, to meet all the athletes that you admire and to work with them on photo shoots is incredible. I always tell everyone that through hard work they also can work their way into this industry.  I have been in the fitness industry over five years and I enjoy it very much. I have worked on various photo shoots, promotional model assignments, and magazines etc. I presently work for a Beverly Hills based plastic surgeon as a consultant. I also have started my own corporation to expand into the world of clothing design. Moving to this city with all its opportunities is the best thing I have done.”

Would you say that your background has left you with a different set of values and a different view of what is important in life than if you born in the USA?

“I really don’t think so… I always knew that you have to sacrifice some things in order to achieve your goals. Not having been born in the US does not change me. I come from a humble section of Montevideo where we went without many material things. Today I give thanks for having been raised like that as it showed me to value the thing I have today. I have always considered myself to be a woman of strong character, and my favorite saying is…nothing is impossible, persevere and you will triumph.”

Were you athletic as a child?

“Yes, ever since I can remember I have always loved to work out, and I was always involved in different sport. Like swimming, Karate, Gymnastics, Tennis, Boxing, Soccer, Cycling and weight lifting. Thank God I always had a family that showed me to have discipline.  When I ate too many sweets my mother would always take me to the gym and cook healthy foods. Today I thank her for what she taught me… the value of eating and working out correctly. I enjoy being able to show and transfer the joy of my knowledge to people who need to get in shape. There is nothing more gratifying for me than to be able to help others reach their goals.”

As a child we all have visions of what we want to do and who we want to be when we grow up… can you remember yours?

“As a small kid I always wanted to travel the world, and become a model in the USA. I had my note books with maps marking the places I wanted to go to, and agencies I wanted to work for. Who would have guessed that I would have traveled to places such as Japan, Thailand, Brazil, Belize, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Dominican Rep. and the USA? When I got to the USA I got involved in the fitness world, and here I am growing as a person and healing. My dreams do not stop here, but with everything in life you have to take everything in your stride. It’s all about patience and small steps.”

When did you move to LA and what prompted that move?

“I moved to LA in 2003. I lived in Boston before then. My move to LA was prompted by my desire to search for new opportunities in the world of fitness.”

How easy was it for you to get into the world of Fitness modeling?

“I think that nothing comes easy in life, but with dedication and hard work I worked my way into the fitness industry. Obviously it’s very important to have good contacts and form working relationships with people in the industry.  That’s why I started working out at Gold’s Gym-Venice…where I started my fitness modeling career.”

You have graced many magazines covers, do you have any moments during your modeling career that you are particularly proud of?

“Yes definitely! Like I said before, getting into the fitness industry was a long process and I felt very proud when I was asked to be on the cover of Ironman magazine with Moe El Moussawi. I could not believe that I was chosen without having ever competed. You could say I started out on the right foot.”

I am sure there are many women reading this that would love to get into that area of work…what words of advice would you like to share with them?

“First of all I would tell them that we must love our self the way we are, and never feel that you cannot have a great body. The dedication and love that one puts into anything is the key to success. Any woman is beautiful in every sense of the word because it’s Gods greatest creation.

We always need to leave time for ourselves, be it at home, or in the gym. It’s not necessary to do extreme diets, which I don’t do. I am disciplined and follow a daily routine. So to those ladies who feel that they cannot reach being a fitness model I would say…if you dream it you can achieve it. Any women who would like to ask me for help with their diets or routine can contact me through my web page.”

What is your biggest source of motivation?

“I think that my greatest motivation is to bring awareness in our community to how important it is to have a clear mind and body, and how to achieve this. The power to educate friends is a sensation that I can’t explain. To receive e mails, or texts from people who admire and want to know about me, or want to follow in my footsteps is also very motivating.”

Are there any lessons you have learned in life that you would like to share with our readers?

“One of the things I have learned is to not be impatient because everything comes in due time. As a Hispanic woman I’m very passionate in everything I do, and being impatient is part of that, LOL. With time I have changed this and now I wait for things to take their time, and I stay focused on my goals.”

What have you got planned for this year so far?

“As an independent woman I always wanted to have my own business, and I have just formed my own corporation, which will carry my own logo focusing on T-shirt design. I will continue with my fitness modeling for the mean time because of the joy I get out of it, and volunteering at a children’s hospital.”

And beyond that, what are your ultimate goals?

“As I have said I am working on developing my own product line that features my image and logo. Also I want to develop and see my company grow, and branch out to open a spa, which is something I have always dreamed of having. Again I will focus on this with the same intensity as I have with getting into shape.”

Finally how people contact you?

“My fans can always contact me through my web site: www.erikathompson.net, Face book- public page Erika Thompson model, twitter (erikafitness) and in Model Mayhem.

I hope to answer many emails with any questions from women who want fitness modeling advice, and about upcoming merchandise!”

Look out for kickasswoman regular Holly Stanbrough making a guest appearance!

www.hoosierfitexpo.com

 

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Home:   TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA

Gym:   (in Toronto) the training room; YSF; Goodlife; (in California) Golds Gym-the Mecca of bodybuilding (This is one of the rare gifts given to IFBB pro’s-free membership!!)

Career:   IFBB pro bodybuilder; private trainer & nutrition advisor; modeling & entertainment

Contest History

 “Although I haven’t stepped on stage in a number of years I have trained many others successfully and I still live and love the lifestyle of health, fitness and Bodybuilding!  22 years plus training …and counting!”

What is going on in your life right now?  

“So many positive things! First I’m focusing on my private training business which is going so well! Have some big goals but taking it one step at a time! I enjoy helping people reach the goals they never thought possible. I am learning more via PROPTA and some comrades’ especially in Toronto.  My main site supporting this is www.rlqzone.com.  Here I do online training and can be hired for personal training sessions.  I’m also supporting other trainers and gyms by profiling them if anyone is interested. In addition I am still doing what I’ve done for years which is modeling, my other sites, and/or unique shenanigans career supporting when the moment fits!  I am currently training for a couple of interesting events…time will reveal!”

“I am looking for Sponsors, Angel Investors, Advertisers and Donators! See contact info below if interested in details!”

 Where do you see yourself ideally in five years time?

“Life has taught me not to predict absolutely…but I will plan! I prefer to not say exactly…too much pressure… but know I am definitely working on a solid goal with the intent to get me to that ideal place in time!”

 Interests outside of the gym?

“Music (house in particular), dancing, good conversation, spending time with my cat Mace, and working on my projects & the next thing!”

 What keeps you motivated? 

“Progress in whatever my goal may be! So long as I have some progress, I have motivation! It doesn’t even have to be a lot….so long as it’s something, I’m happy and fueled! If you appreciate positives you will get further and enjoy the ride!”

 Any lessons that you have learned that you would like to share?

 “Lessons… hmmm….I think there is a lesson to be learned from everything if you are conscientious enough to tune into it.  But if I must be specific re this, presently I would say it is this….never be surprised at what life may throw at you! Just be prepared to deal with it the best you can and do so!

The last year threw some interesting tests at me and I had to seriously reassess, or so I thought, who I was. Now I look at all as just more experiences and pieces to my personal picture, rather than good or bad!’ And what a great puzzle wow! And I have freedom….I may not have yet reached exactly where I have been trying to go BUT at least I get to try and work on it and I do so whenever I please!

Quite some time ago I made the decision that if I was going to have to work in this lifetime I had best try doing what I love in life…and I am…my bodybuilding and entertainment lifestyle have been so fulfilling!   So onwards I continue!

Contact Info

Rhonda_lee_quaresma@hotmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/RhondaLee4U

http://www.facebook.com/RLQZONE

Photo Credit : Scott Dial

Great end product and exceptionally affordable rates.

Contact me and I will hook you up!

leepenman@live.com

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Home: Wiesbaden, Germany (currently transitioning to TX from Seattle)

Gym:  Soldiers Field House- Ft. Lewis, WA

Career:   Federal Grant Reviewer/Grant writer, Translator, Bus. Consultant, Motivational Speaker, Choreographer, Actress/Model

Contest History  

US Armed Forces 2007 INBBF Fitness/Figure Competition (Darmstadt, Germany)

4^th Place

What is going on in your life right now?

“I am simply loving life! Right now, I am engaged in a serious medical battle but in spite of the fight, I focus on always giving back to others and inspiring those who cross my path; somehow always seeking to deliver a message of hope and encouragement to help others in their journey. While many say I am a “KAW”, I simply attest that I am an ordinary person with the exception that I am one hell of a fighter re- defining what an Ultimate Fighting Champion is and praying that my peers and others in the fight of their life win their battle whether it is a fight to achieve goals, overcome/deal with an illness, fighting addictions, etc.  In spite of setbacks with my health, I take my health seriously and I maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. I stay focused on nutrition and have a great exercise program in place. I enjoy working out at the gym, running in my neighborhood and at the beach, and just this week I decided to take up learning to play basketball. I have several causes and activities I strongly support that I remain engaged in and just was recently crowned Ms. Armed Forces Globe 2012. Pretty eager to begin my reign and prepare for competing for the national title in August.  I am taking a brief break with dance instructing but just took 2^nd place in a regional Ballroom competition and have been training a student in wheelchair dance who just today was accepted for competition which will hopefully place him in Paralympics so although somber to take a break, there have been some great last accomplishments that have occurred lately. I am also in the process of re-writing a screenplay I wrote in 2006 and hopefully seeing it as entry in an Independent Film Festival by next year.”

Where do you see yourself ideally in five years time?  

“Family is very important to me so in five years I believe God will have answered my prayers of either being in a relationship with my soul mate preparing for marriage or at that time already married and building a family. I look forward to motherhood but this doesn’t necessarily mean having my own child, it could be adoption or having step-children but I am looking forward to being a wonderful mother and wife and great role model building a strong family unit and bond with that special someone. I vision having a dance/fitness studio focused on serving those with disabilities or having a non-profit serving victims of domestic violence and empowering them, so hopefully within five years I will be on the road to seeing one of those visions turn into a reality. I see myself with my health restored and on my way to full recovery and even if not, I am sure I will still be smiling and putting up one hell of a fight no matter whether it is my health, fighting to achieve my goals, or continuing to inspire others to fight like hell. Last but not least, I plan to have undertaken at least 10 things placed on my Life’s Journey Must Do List (known as a bucket list to others). Today I went skydiving with my friend, that was #1, nine more to go…”

Interests outside of the gym?

“In the gym, I “go hard” but I am just as hard in my personal non-gym life. I spend time mentoring at-risk youth, as a public speaker for multiple sclerosis, domestic violence awareness and other important issues, volunteering in both my military and civilian communities (Army Family Team Building Master Trainer and Army Community Service Master Trainer), ballroom and wedding dance choreography and teaching wheelchair dance, writing, reading, cooking and scuba diving. This past year I took up learning football so that and basketball are now my new sports interests. I also enjoy teaching others to implement a healthy lifestyle into their life by way of nutrition, exercise and making good lifestyle choices overall.”

What keeps you motivated?

“One of my favorite quotes is, “Attitude is everything. Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is facing some kind of battle. Live simply, care deeply, and speak kindly… Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.” and this quote daily motivates me to not allow any obstacle to stand in my way and to simply use an obstacle as an opportunity not only to enrich my life but to enrich the life of others. It motivates me to take action and make the best of a situation no matter how bleak, thus “dance in the rain,” and that is what I choose to do. I also always keep focused on my journey and on my goals. In addition to my Heavenly Father and my spiritual foundation, which motivates me greatly, I am so blessed with a dear friend, Edward, who I call “Sunshine” because he truly is my storm chaser and paints rainbows in my skies daily even when life’s storms seem unbearable. He provides me with encouragement, never leaves my side and reminds me there is nothing I cannot accomplish. He greatly both enhances and motivates me and I am so grateful to him for all he does to keep me motivated and for his unending support. He has no idea how much of an impact his own daily walk in life has on me and not only does he motivate me but he inspires me.”

Any lessons that you have learned that you would like to share?

“I have so many life lessons learned but my favorites I love passing on include:

1. Dance to the beat of your own drum. Live your life, be the person you truly are, be true to yourself. Do not conform to what society or friends desire you to do and be. Never be found guilty of what I call “Identity Theft”-being what and who you are not. All I know is to be me and hear my drum beat.
2. Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light. Not all situations will be pleasant however remember your response to a situation is something you can control.
3. “GIVE but don’t allow yourself to be USED. LOVE but don’t allow your heart to be ABUSED. TRUST but don’t be NAIVE. Remember there is always a healthy balance to maintain in life.
4. Beauty gets the attention, personality gets the heart. Be a person of substance.
5. Remember that even when there is no song in your heart, sing anyway.
6. Everyone always has a criteria for what they seek in a friend or a mate, however make sure you are worthy and have something to bring to the table as well. While never settling is good, while ensuring you get the best in life, ensure you are fit to be someone else’s best as well. Be yourself and be the best you can be.
7. Invest in yourself and others you strongly believe in. Investing in myself has been easy and I feel necessary as I continuously transcend. Whether it is my time, effort, energy, etc. I believe in investing in others as well and passing on skills, wisdom, etc. in which I possess. Always pay it forward.”

Contact Info

kaydencesmiles@yahoo.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/inspiredjourney

 

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Home: Grew up Leroy/Rochester, NY) South Florida is now home

Gym: LA Fitness, Ft. Lauderdale and Boca Raton. RAC (Rochester/Buffalo Athletic Club when I visit NY)

Career: Be Your Best Body by Nancy, Certified Personal Trainer/Nutritional Advisor/Weight Loss/Gain and Contest Prep.

Contest History:

2004 NPC Florida State Championships 2nd, Figure Class A short class

2006 NPC Debbie Crock Classic 2^nd, Figure Class A short class

2006 NPC Florida State Figure Championships, 3^rd Figure Class A short class

2007 NPC Rochester 56^th Annual BB, and Figure Championships, Figure Class A 2^nd

2007 IFBB/PRO Am North American BB, and Figure Championships, Figure Class 13th (28 in class)

2008 NPC South Florida Challenge BB and Figure Show, 1^st Open Class A, 1^st 30+ over

2009 NPC Anna Level BB, and Figure Championships, Figure Class A 3^rd

2009 NPC Florida State BB, and Figure Championships, Figure Class A 4^th

^{2011 Natural Northeast BB and Figure Championships, Figure Open Overall 1st, Master’s Figure Class (35+) 1st (up for Pro Card)}

What is going on in your life right now?

“I am busy training my clients and myself as always! I enjoy training others and helping them train correctly and see the changes they make. I also enjoy helping people become aware of better nutritional habits. This is a real passion of mine, after all 80% of the results you will see in your physique have everything to do with how you eat. I also am figuring out my competition plans for this year as well, deciding on possible back to back shows or focusing solely on one. I enjoy having some days where I don’t train and some food I cannot normally have during contest prep as well. I cheat rarely on my diet so that I can stay as close as possible to my competition weight. I do have some occasional meals not within my contest diet that I can enjoy without damaging the look I like I like to keep. I can say I am really quite rigid about my weight and try to keep with 5-7 pounds of my contest weight during the off-season. It becomes too difficult to attain a competition look if I allow myself to put on a lot of weight.”

Where do you see yourself ideally in five years time?

“In five years I will be retired from competing but will remain very active in training myself as well as my clients. I also hope to further my knowledge in Nutrition as well, perhaps getting an advanced degree in the field. I also hope to have a job possibly in the veterinarian field. I have a great compassion and love for animals. They bring me such joy in my life.  I would love to have a position such as a Vet. Assistant or Vet. Technician. I, of course hope to be happily married and enjoying life as a couple within five years time as well or much sooner!”

Interests outside of the gym?

“I have so many. I adore taking care and spending time with my dog Gizmo. I love taking him for simple walk or playing with him until he drops.  I truly consider my dog to be like my child. I enjoy baking and cooking. I like to find healthier options for cooking so I may take what would normally be a high fat meal and turn into a lighter, less fattening meal. I like to have absolute control of my food intake. I also enjoy movies, dancing, swimming (I used to compete competitively) wine tasting, the beach, getting together with friends, and watching almost any sporting event on TV. I am one of those girls who loves football whether going to the games or watching them on TV. I am still a die hard Buffalo Bills Fan stemming from my upstate, NY roots. I enjoy watching baseball, tennis, and some basketball as well.”

What keeps you motivated?

“My health first and foremost. I knew I was adopted at a young age and decided then I needed to take my health into my own hands. Without any knowledge of my health history I decided I am not going to leave this world for anything unless it is out of my control. So I took my health and eating habits into my own hands. Next I would say I motivate myself. You really have to in this business of fitness and figure competing. You can only rely on yourself to get up and train on a daily basis.  I do find looking to figure athletes I admire like Monica Brant, Erin Stern, and Gina Alittoi helps motivate me too. There is nothing like looking at a fantastic photo of your favorite athlete to make you say ‘Ok. I need to go to the gym today!’ Realizing, you can only be the best version of yourself it still doesn’t hurt to look to others with physiques you admire for some motivation. Lastly, I would have to say I would be lying if I didn’t like the appearance. The look of a sculpted physique is the benefit you get from a ton of very hard earned time, sweat, and effort you put into the gym.”

Any lessons that you have learned that you would like to share?

 “Two big lessons come to mind for me. First, don’t allow others to put you down. Second, don’t be overly critical of yourself.  I received so much positive affirmation after the show.  However, there always seems to be a critic or two more than willing to point out something negative. Some of the most well regarded athletes whether in the fitness business or otherwise still have critics. I have found that there will always be those that will add negativity to the quest or those I refer to as “Haters on Board.” Most often it is their own insecurities, flaws, and jealousy that cause the problem. I learned a valuable lesson this past year that no matter who these people are you have to leave them out of your life period no exceptions.  Negativity from anyone is never welcome and I have found that once you can fully dismiss those people who are not supportive of you and your goals life is much better. Eventually, the very people that have been negative towards you and your goals ultimately have to deal with themselves and their own insecurities. I have been truly blessed to have 99% positive feedback from fellow athletes, admirers, family, and friends.

 Second, I have learned that being too hard on yourself or demanding perfection can deter how you feel about yourself. This is a very tough sport, with very tough judges. Ultimately, you can only control the effort you put in. Winning, placing second or third is out of your control. You have to always give yourself some credit. We all can be our worst critics.  There is a quote I absolutely love and have heard many times over from those involved in competing and life in general. ‘Your worst enemy, your greatest opposition, is your own self doubt. Overcome that, and you can conquer anything.’ (Author unknown) These are words that I now try to live by.

Contact Info:  Nancy Williams

           nancynoelwilliams@yahoo.com

           New face book/fan page will be done soon.