Healthy Free Life Magazine July 2025 [kje] | Page 22

I have lost 55 lbs (just 10 to go!) but more importantly, I have gained freedom- freedom from emotional eating, self-reliance, and the weight of unhealed pain.

I live in beautiful Montana with my husband, but for much of my life, I carried the heavy burden of childhood trauma. Although I had trusted Jesus as my Savior, I relied on my own strength to navigate pain, which led to bitterness, anger, and emotional exhaustion.

I searched for healing through counseling, educating myself, relationships, and career success, but nothing brought lasting peace.

Overwhelmed by stress and unresolved wounds, I turned to food for comfort. The pounds slowly crept on, first in early adulthood, then even more so after becoming a mother and later as a widow, eventually reaching 220 pounds.

Programs like Weight Watchers and Overeaters Anonymous brought temporary relief, but the root of my struggle remained untouched.

That changed when I encountered a discipleship curriculum that taught me to hunger for God first. As I surrendered to Him, true healing began. I discovered the love of Jesus in a new, deeper way, one that brought the comfort, strength, and freedom my heart had always longed for.

Healthy Free Life became a vital companion on my healing journey. Through its tools, education, and encouragement, I was empowered to take the physical steps my transformed heart now

lifer

HIGHLIGHT

desired.

The HFL Success Path

gives me a clear roadmap, the devotionals deepen my walk with God, and the loving community surrounds me with support and hope.

So far, I have lost 55 pounds (just 10 to go!), but more importantly, I have gained freedom- freedom from emotional eating, self-reliance, and the weight of life's pain. I am no longer masking my wounds but allowing God to restore me, body, mind and spirit.

Today, I live with more joy, contentment, and hope than ever before. My transformation began in my heart and affects every part of my life. And I know my journey isn't over... there is even more to come.

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Mary Girod