Rene lives in Indian Trail and works as a Registered Nurse at Atrium Union West. When she’s not caring for patients, she’s spending time with her dachshund, Pookie, her cat, Gussie, and her 11-year-old great-niece, Caliyah.
Rene first learned about CrossFit through fellow member Kasey Wallace. After seeing CrossFit MNC on social media and hearing Kasey’s enthusiasm, she decided to reach out and learn more. At the same time, her cardiologist was encouraging her to lose weight. While weight-loss injections were suggested, Rene decided she wanted a different path.
“When I said I was going to try CrossFit, he laughed,” Rene recalls. Six months later, his response was very different: “You look so healthy.”
The changes have been dramatic. In just nine months, Rene has lost weight, increased her muscle mass, improved her cardiovascular health, and eliminated her joint pain. She no longer feels exhausted, can comfortably walk her dog several miles, and has gained strength that makes everyday activities easier.
“When I started CrossFit, I couldn’t do step-ups without extra plates to make the box shorter. Now I can step up with ease. I can get up from a bench after lifting weights without struggling. My labs are all within normal limits, and I have zero joint pain.”
But Rene’s journey has been about much more than physical health.
Three and a half years ago, Rene unexpectedly lost her husband of 26 years.
“My soulmate and best friend was taken from me way too soon. I was just trying to survive.”
Like many people walking into a gym for the first time, she was intimidated.
“Everybody looked so healthy and fit… and then there was me.”
Still, she kept showing up.
This photo captures a bright pink dress she purchased during a trip to Oak Island. At the time, she loved the dress, but when she saw photos of herself wearing it, she felt discouraged by how unhealthy she looked. Instead of giving up, she used that feeling as motivation to keep moving forward.
The second photo tells a different story.
For more than a year, a black dress hung in her closet. When she bought it, she couldn’t even get it past her shoulders. This spring, she tried it on again.
“It fit.”
“For the first time in years, I felt so good about myself.”
Today, Rene’s goals continue to evolve. She wants to improve her balance, continue building strength, and get back to riding a bicycle.
Her advice to others?
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. Keep stepping even when you think you can’t. If I can improve my overall health in nine months at 66 years old, anyone can.”
We’re incredibly proud of Rene and grateful to have her as part of the CrossFit MNC family. Her consistency, positivity, and willingness to encourage others are making an impact far beyond her own fitness journey.
If you want what Rene has, schedule a FREE chat with us to find out how we can help. The hardest part is getting started. We’ve got you from there.