María Elena Peguero

Being immobile caused her to gain weight

My name is Marielena Peguero, I’m 26 years old, I’m Dominican and I live in New York. I lived a beautiful childhood in the Dominican Republic. I was always a very active girl who ran and sang all over the house. I enjoyed traditional meals at my grandparents' house and I always stood out for being the slim one in the family I came to the U.S. looking for a better future at the age 14, everything was new to me. I had the life I always dreamed of: family, work, home and a brand new car. One cold winter morning on my way to work, my life changed forever. My new car was hit by a truck, leaving me trapped without being able to move. I was motionless for months before I could walk. My hours in bed felt like an eternity, I felt like everyone had a normal life except me. I found comfort in an exaggerated intake of food. I went from seeing myself as a young lady to an old woman of 180 LBS! Life gave me a second chance so I made myself a promise: LIVE A NEW LIFESTYLE! I looked at different options but I chose YES YOU CAN! My diet with LATIN FLAVOR! Today I have dropped 41 pounds, I am a new person. I am more active than ever before! I continue to enjoy my favorite foods...I live a lifestyle that empowers me! There is only one life ladies and gentlemen…YES YOU CAN!