LSR Inspirational Stories: Michelle Maria

Michelle Mecca, 49, discusses her journey from bodybuilding to battling stage four HER2-positive breast cancer. She started training to lose pregnancy weight and then decided to compete in bikini contests as her next goal. In 2019, she was diagnosed with stage three cancer, undergoing a double mastectomy and multiple surgeries. Despite losing her hair, she maintained a positive attitude, emphasizing exercise’s role in her recovery. The cancer returned 15 months later, leading to a brain tumor diagnosis. Michelle continues aggressive treatment, including chemo and radiation, and advocates for better cancer awareness and support. After a recent surgery, she plans to resume motivational speaking to educate others about stage four cancer.

Michelle’s Journey into Bodybuilding

When did you start competing, and how did you get into that?

I was 42. I had started really working out hard about 15 years ago, trying to get the baby weight off, and got in the best shape that I could possibly be in. I started thinking, “What kind of goal can I set for myself?” I looked at CrossFit, but that just did not appeal to me. Instead I decided an NPC competition would be a good goal. I competed in the bikini division in the Fort Walton area. I chose small shows to emphasize the importance of achieving my goals without overwhelming my life. I had two small children. Of course, I wanted to place, but it wasn’t the end of your world if I didn’t. Being stage ready, to me, was a win.

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