Sandi lives in Gulfport and is the owner of The Yoga Barre Pilates Studio.
MY HEALTH CHALLENGE
In June of 2020, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was an unexpected phone call from my doctor (that delivered the news). I was terrified and shocked. I surrendered to God’s plan, and my mindset dramatically improved.
WHAT I DID
In 11 months, I had a double mastectomy, four rounds of chemotherapy and a hysterectomy. As of today, I am doing great, and my doctors are pleased.
THE HARDEST PART
The hardest part was accepting that I had cancer because I always had considered myself very healthy. The most rewarding part has been reaching out to other women with breast cancer and educating women about the importance of being proactive about their health. I am blessed to be able to share my story with so many women at the studio.
WHAT MY LIFE IS LIKE NOW
Life is great! I am at the studio teaching most days. I look back at my life and see how God always had me in his hedge of protection. I am much stronger mentally.
2020 was the most difficult year for me thus far, both personally and professionally. I had to close my studio for four months due to my health and COVID restrictions on businesses. I am most proud of the fact that I was able to reopen the studio in less than three weeks after completing chemotherapy, rebuild the studio community, grow my teaching staff and expand the studio to include reformer Pilates after being closed.
MY ADVICE TO OTHERS
Give your worries to God. Trust in his plan; trust in his timing — even if you don’t understand it.