At 16, a diagnosis of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis shook the foundation of my active life. Struggling through daily tasks and experiencing significant weight gain, I found myself at rock bottom. In the depths of despair, I discovered the transformative power of fitness, guided by the unwavering support of my father in the gym and my family outside of it. From the initial struggle to walk, I gradually progressed to lifting weights. Fitness not only rebuilt my physical strength but also mended my shattered confidence. This newfound resilience fueled my determination to share this gift with others.
Fast forward to June 4th, 2018, the day Forge Fitness was born. It wasn't merely the inauguration of a gym; it was the realization of a dream forged in adversity. Forge became a sanctuary where my personal battle against limitations inspired others. The journey wasn't without its challenges. In the midst of our growth, we faced a life-altering moment: a near-death experience that reminded us of life's fragility. This profound event strengthened our resolve. With unwavering determination, we expanded Forge Fitness into a larger space, welcoming Chris to our team. Together, we transformed Forge into more than just a fitness center—it became a beacon of hope, resilience, and unwavering support.
Chris joined our gym just before a monumental expansion, a pivotal moment that marked a new chapter for Forge Fitness. Little did we know, life had an even greater challenge in store for us. A mere month after the expansion, I found myself in the hospital, my life hanging in the balance with a mere 30% chance of survival. During those harrowing five weeks, Chris held down the fort. His dedication, unwavering support, and sheer determination became the bedrock that kept Forge standing in my absence.
In January 2022, against all odds, I returned to Forge with a renewed sense of purpose. The vision of turning Forge into more than just a fitness facility burned brighter than ever before. With Chris by my side, we worked relentlessly, pouring our sweat, passion, and dreams into every corner of Forge. Together, we shaped that dream into the thriving reality we're living today. Forge Fitness isn't just a gym; it's a testament to resilience, friendship, and the power of unwavering determination. The challenges we faced only made us stronger, forging an unbreakable bond and transforming our shared dream into the incredible community Forge is now.