After the Collapse: A Year of Rebuilding

A year of rebuilding strength, redefining success, and choosing life now.

One year prior, in January 2021, standing on my own felt like an impossible goal.

I had been stripped to my most basic functions: breathe, sit, survive.

This isn’t a story of the perfect comeback, but one of resilience, persistence, hard work, and choosing LIFE, again and again.

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“What a year it's been! From unable to stand on my own to the strongest of my life. It sure didn't come without its challenges.

I fought and pushed and maybe went too far at times, but hard work pays off. The body is an amazing thing. It came back to me so quickly. My lungs are my only limit now.

I ended plenty of workouts on oxygen until I learned my limits. In May, I finally felt comfortable enough to get rid of all my oxygen.

Then, I threw all my crap into storage and hit the road for a cross country adventure!

Life is not promised. Do what makes you happy NOW!!

Austin, Carlsbad, Phoenix, Sedona, Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Moab, Arches, Canyonlands, Madison, and Denver.

Did I mention that I won an all-expenses paid trip to the CrossFit Games?! What an unforgettable and life changing experience that was!!

I was unemployed for 3+ months this year. A blessing in disguise! I was able to take my time to decide what I really wanted to do with my life. Training became my highest priority. Upon returning to Virginia, I was offered my dream job as a full-time fitness coach!

Everyday, I get to help others, I get to train, and I still have time to pursue other dreams. How blessed am I?!

Speaking of which, I have some exciting things planned for 2023 that I cannot wait to share with y'all!

Looking back, I must say, CrossFit and Kundalini yoga saved my life!! I'm so grateful to have found such supportive communities. Thanks to everyone that helped push me through this year! I couldn't have done it without you!”

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This is a social media post I wrote 1 year-ish from my release from the hospital. I am beyond proud of myself. It was such a challenging year, and at times I wanted to give up, but instead, I persevered.

As long as I wake up with breathing lungs and a beating heart, all is well. Everything else if figureoutable!

Stand tall,

Tracey