Interview with Heart Healthy, Jana Goemmer, for the MY JOURNEY Story Series
LAC: When did you decide to start making your health a priority (what or whom inspired this decision) and what were your goals?
Jana: I have always enjoyed being active and have found ways throughout the years to do so. However, I began really making my health a priority when I discovered that I had high cholesterol. Then life happened and I had 2 beautiful girls in the process which didn’t always allow me time to make it a priority. But in the fall of 2014, my 19 year old nephew suffered severe heart failure unexpectedly and it was another wake up call. My mother has also battled early heart disease and failure for many years. It was time to make my health a priority for good! My desire to keep my cholesterol low and heart healthy keeps me motivated each day. Oh, and keeping a rockin’ body doesn’t hurt either.
LAC: How did you get started and what did you do to improve your health?
Jana: I joined LAC! Most recently, with two young children, I made the decision to get up before the sun rises so the day’s distractions don’t keep me away. It can be really rough some days but at the end of the day it is totally worth the effort. I alter my workout each day with running and strength training. I focus on raising my heart rate and building my muscles for strength.
LAC: How did you stay motivated and what was the biggest challenge?
Jana: A healthy heart is what first motivates me. Watching my mother and nephew struggle with their heart disease keeps me focused on keeping my heart rate up. In addition to staying active for my two daughters. My biggest challenge can be time, but I have solved it by rising before the sun comes up and my “official” day begins.
LAC: What positive changes did you see in your life and what did you learn throughout this process?
Jana: Although my cholesterol is still managed by medication, it is at a very low dose. I feel stronger, healthier, and I know I am a better person (both mentally and physically) for taking the time to exercise daily. 
Jana was also one of the My Journey Prize winners this year!