From war-torn childhood to resilient woman

Olivia started working with me in the Fall of 2004.

Yes, 2004. Over 20 years ago.

At the time, she had signed up as a study participant in a research trial at the University of Alberta. I was managing the fitness center where the study was being run, and the focus was on how exercise could impact long-term outcomes of women at risk of breast cancer.

Olivia didn’t have breast cancer, but she wanted to give her time to contribute. She was randomized into the exercise group—and she showed up.

Every single session.

With a smile.

With energy.

With generosity.

She was a vivacious, kind, resilient woman. I still remember her sitting on the recumbent bike, sharing stories of growing up in war-torn Holland during the 1940s—memories of bomb shelters and fear, but also survival.

She carried that resilience into every workout.

Then one day, in the Spring of 2005, she walked into the gym with a grin that stretched across her face. She looked tired but proud.

I asked her, “How are you today?”

She said, “I walked here. Four kilometers. I just decided this morning I was going to do it.”

That was Olivia.

She surprised herself, pushed herself, and then savored the victory.

And the confidence it gave her radiated through everything she did.

She started walking more often to the gym. She pushed herself a little harder on the treadmill. By the end of the study, she was crushing workouts on the elliptical trainer.

And she wasn’t just physically stronger--she was transformed.

Her body changed.

Her mind changed.

Her confidence changed.

And I had the privilege of walking alongside her, guiding her, witnessing her transformation.

It was nothing short of remarkable.

✨ And here’s what I want you to know: this transformation is possible for you too.

Movement Rx is starting next week—your last opportunity to join in 2025. The doors won’t open again until the new year.

If you’re ready to move beyond “just exercise” and step into the confidence, energy, and strength that comes from true transformation… this is your moment.

Email me directly and I’ll help you get set up.

Because transformation doesn’t wait—it begins with one choice.

Stay well and happy moving,
Lisa

P.S. Olivia’s story will always remind me: change is possible. And so is yours.