Elizabeth A. Esposito

When I was 29-years-old, my father passed away from an abdominal aortic aneurysm. He smoked three packs of cigarettes per day from the time he was 13 to age 66, when he passed. Seventeen years later, my mother passed away from Stage 4 kidney disease and dementia. Both Dad and Mom did not monitor their sugar or salt intake. While they were not particularly overweight, they were not healthy. My passion for my own health and fitness journey began years ago when I saw their struggle with health.

I am the type of person that enjoys variety in fitness -- I have been coaching youth soccer for the past three years. I love getting out on the field with them even though I fight through a permanent back injury sustained 21 years ago. While I am approaching 50-years-old, I still feel as if I'm 10, therefore, I'll use a hula hoop to work out my abs, I'll dribble a soccer ball to get my cardio in, I'll dance to 70's disco and 80's rock in order to get my endorphins up. Each day is a new journey.

Last June I took a leap of faith and resigned from a career in a field I've worked in for almost 30 years. While searching for my next chapter, I have depleted some of my savings in order not to jump into a job out of financial desperation. Receiving $20,000 will ensure that I can replenish my savings account and continue to be financial independent.