Sitting alone at home late one night while her family was asleep, Marianne Costales-Roman, a 37-year-old high school social worker from Carol Stream, made a decision. She would apply to be a Fittest Loser.
“I had this overwhelming feeling that this opportunity was destined to be for me,” she recalls.
Like many people, Costales-Roman’s life is full to the brim. Juggling both full- and part-time jobs, her roles as wife, mother to two daughters and caretaker for her disabled mother and autistic brother, she wondered how she could possibly arrange her life to fit caring for herself into the schedule.
She certainly isn’t alone in that dilemma. However, the price of not taking the time for herself, was already evident. Diagnosed as prediabetic and on medication for high blood pressure, Costales-Roman needs to be healthy.
“I want to start living my life actively, not just existing. I want to be around for my two daughters, my mom and my brother. I want to share a lifetime with my wonderful husband, Ramiro.”
And there’s her 20th high school reunion coming up in June.
“I want to look hot!”