Gracie Donaldson Cipriano

After living a life trapped in my body, I have found increased self-esteem that I didn't know I lost. My whole life has opened up since getting in shape & losing 95 pounds. I love how my body is starting to look. I love that I don't feel awkward or unworthy anymore. I also feel validation every time I reach a new fitness goal or achieve a non-scale victory. Finally, I need to make sure I'm around a long time, to care for my husband, Anthony, and senior rescue dog, Maddie.

Running! Don't worry, I supplement with strength training, but as a former addict -- there is nothing quite like runner's high. I am recovering from addictions to food, alcohol, and painkillers. Runner's high beats then all. I was also addicted to academic validation, and crossing a finish line or setting a new PR feels just as good as straight As did in college and graduate school.

Pay off my credit card debt, my car, and the loan for the bed my husband and I needed when we were first married -- and weighed in at a combined 560 pounds. I've lost 95 pounds and he's lost 45, so we truly don't need the bed anymore -- but we're stuck with a year left on a $4K loan we took out to purchase it. Once the debts are paid, and I've pre-paid for my dog's allergy shots, I'd like to help a few friends who are truly struggling with their finances. And take a trip!