I still have plenty of fight left in me.

I grew up on welfare in the South Bronx; I had a very tough upbringing in that neighborhood. Reading books like The Four Agreements, A Return to Love, and The Power of Now helped me to overcome many internal battles. Had I not worked on myself, put value in myself, I would not have the loving and supportive people that I have right now in my life, including my husband and children

I try to get seven to eight hours of sleep. Wash my hands a lot, take a few supplements, like omega-3 and vitamin D. When I feel a cold coming on, I pop some zinc. I do my best to eat a low-sodium, high-fiber diet. I drink mostly water or coconut water. I don't smoke, no drugs, and drink red wine occasionally.

I still have plenty of fight left in me.

To stay balanced, I exercise by walking and taking private Pilates lessons and salsa dance lessons. I also meditate and spend quality time with my kids by baking or doing crafts, hiking, going to the theater and movies.

When I look around and see the beautiful people and wonderful surroundings that are now my reality, I know that I have overcome so much.

My life would be a reflection of my childhood, but it isn't; it is a reflection of the dreams that I had as a child for a better life.