Wendy Michelle Kessell

A few years ago I was about 15 lbs heavier & really struggling. I was working nonstop & running ragged with Kids' schedules. I was so stressed! Then, I started working out every day. Some days are nuts and I can only squeeze in something quick. For me, taking time every day to breath deeply, push my physical limits and challenge my mental toughness brings peace to my soul. It helps me to show up as my best, happiest self and that positively impacts every relationship in my life.

I walk with weights 2-3 miles per day every morning on the hills in my neighborhood. I live in Maryland so it's COLD right now but that time outside starts my day perfectly. It's so nice to get time to think outside! After work, I hit the machines and weights. I love the rowing machine, stair master and HIIT workouts with weights. I do different things every day to keep it fun and invite my daughters or friends to work out with me; that brings community that makes my workouts even better!

I would donate the $20,000 to the Sophia Ann Charity (https://www.sophiaanncharity.com). They are a new non-profit providing mental health support for mothers that suffer with postpartum depression or have babies that have passed away. Sophia Ann's mission is incredibly meaningful, and I would like to help them expand their reach so more young mothers can have financial access to the resources they need at this critical time in their lives.