For our 2025 Strength Embodied graduation we were honored to have “Vickie” as our keynote speaker. She is a 2024 graduate and current Community Advisor Committee member. her speech moved us all so much we wanted to share it with you. Below are her words.

“Good afternoon, everyone.

I have never done this before, but first and foremost, I want to say congratulations to all of you. I went through this program last year, and it was truly an amazing experience. I had so much fun and met incredible people along the way — Jowan, Di, Francine, Morit, and many others.

I want you to know that the first part of your journey has just begun. You may feel like you’re doing this on your own at times, but you are not alone. You have an incredible support system, and we are all here to help you every step of the way. If you need anything throughout this process, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

I was fortunate to have a strong support system with Suzanne, Amelia, Debbie, Philistine, and others. As we move into the harder part of the journey — especially when it’s cold outside and the gym feels like the last place we want to be — remember why you started. This is something you are doing for yourself. Every day, just put one foot in front of the other and take time for you. We are in this together.

As a mom of one, and someone who has worked through trauma from a 19-year marriage, this program was not easy — but it was absolutely worth it. I met so many amazing people along the way, including Di, Jowan, Francine, Amelia, and Debbie. Life continues to happen outside these walls, but this program showed me just how much my body — and my mind — are capable of.

I completed the program a year ago at Form Fitness with Jowan, and I am still working with my training today. I never would have imagined I’d still be showing up for myself after so long. Before my marriage, I had been in and out of the gym for years, but going back wasn’t easy. The gym can be intimidating, especially when you’re starting fresh. But now, even without structured treatment, I know I can walk in on my own — and so can you.

If you ever need support, guidance, or encouragement, please know I am here. You can reach out to Di at any time, and I am always willing to help however I can. When I was asked to be part of the advisory board, I knew I had to say yes — it represents everything I stand for.

Being a mom means finding time for yourself outside of everything else life throws at you. If you show up each day and keep pushing forward, the results will come. It feels incredible to show up for yourself.

Keep your head up. Stay strong. It gets better — and your life will get better too. This is not a marathon; it’s a slow and steady race. Declare your power, own who you are like never before, and keep going.

Show up for you.”