group fitness instructor at Equinox Locations in New York City
"Once I was diagnosed [with cancer], I couldn’t sleep. I was angry and sad. After one week, I thought, I’m a martial artist. (I’m a black belt in karate.) I have to pull out my secret weapons and inner strength. I never wanted to walk into my safe place, the fitness studio, the place where I tell others to be strong, and break down. During the three weeks between diagnosis and surgery, I was like a gladiator walking into the coliseum every time I taught class."