LOUISE VINCENT
NO BARRIERS
This is my story . It is a real honour for me to be chosen to be in the Canadian Physique Alliance ( CPA ) Newsletter as the inspirational story . Talking about my story 9 years later , and in complete remission , is truly a gift . If my story can help motivate or inspire you to not give up and know that everyday is a new day , then this makes my heart smile . My name is Louise Vincent and I am now 50 years old . In my 30s the fitness bug bit me ; I absolutely love competing although never placing . I am still proud of myself for my accomplishments as its hard work and determination that gets us up on that stage . In 2010 ( Provincial Physiques Naturals ’ Championship 2010 – Laval QC ) I competed 16 months after having a beautiful 10 lb baby Girl , who was born on my birthday ! Yes , we share the same birthday . She is the best gift I have ever received in my life . 2011 at 40 years old , while getting ready for my next competition , my daughter fell on my chest and within 2 weeks a mass the size of a golf ball formed in my breast . Yes , Breast Cancer , stage 3 and aggressively going into my lymph nodes . Six months of Chemotherapy , a bi-lateral mastectomy , 25 radiation treatments ( 5 weeks / daily ) 6 failed reconstruction surgeries on the left side of my body . 35 lbs weight gain , from medications , surgeries which all came with many complications , especially my mobility . Meanwhile I would still find the courage to go to the gym , even if it were for only 20 minutes . To train either a favorite body part or to see supportive faces who encouraged me to not give up . What the people at the gym extended to me
was friendship , compassion , and support . They will never know the impact that I am forever grateful for with simply asking , how was I feeling , mentally and physically . The balance of the gym , healthy eating and finding happiness in little things through my daughters ’ eyes at 2 years old are really important . Family , friends and even stranger ’ s kindness can impact your world . My daughter and living a long healthy life are my top priority , but I train to give myself the best type of life . A healthy one , eating well , training hard and luckily I have a strong mind & will . My oncologist believes that my competitor mind set , eating well and training during chemotherapy was not only therapy for my soul but assisted me with healing so well after my treatments and some surgeries , no matter the complications . I strive to encourage my daughter and I hope to inspire others , going through difficult times , don ’ t give up ! Just keep at it . Step by step , you will get there just do not be so hard on yourself , enjoy the gains , no matter how big or small . Be rewarding to yourself . Exercising is not a punishment , I feel that I am celebrating my body when I train it , I am not perfect , and that is ok , but I have learned to love myself and appreciate the body I was born with . We are not all born the same , and honestly that would be quite boring if we were . All shapes and sizes are beautiful ; always look for this in
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