Episode #6 Changing Your Life and Reclaiming Your Health with Heather Kaufman

  

Heather's Story:

My husband, Tim, started on his plant-based journey in 2011 for his health. He was very sick and desperate—and honestly I was worried he wouldn’t live another year. But now he is in incredible health, and I have seen firsthand the lifesaving results from his new way of eating and other healthy habits.

When Tim made the switch, I fully supported him. I ate more plant-based foods, but for some reason I never went completely plant-based.

In 2014 I was diagnosed with a uterine fibroid that was bigger than a grapefruit. The fibroid was putting pressure on the ureter to my right kidney, so it had to be removed. In 2015 I had a total hysterectomy. During the surgery and hospital stay I had flashbacks to my mother’s long days and nights at the hospital as she battled leukemia. My dear mother had lost her battle with cancer, and I vowed the day after my own surgery that I would never set foot in a hospital again if I had anything to do with it. While I couldn’t control everything that happens to me, I could control what I put in my body. I flipped the switch and went 100 percent plant-based and never looked back.

As a result of making my health a priority, I have lost 90 pounds over the past three years, and I have become a competitive runner. The running began when my husband asked me to run a 5k with him. Then we did a 10k. After my first half marathon I really fell in love with running and being outside. Running makes me feel free. I love the time away from all the distractions around us, listening to my music, and reflecting on everything I’m blessed with. I love setting goals to become better and I never would have dreamed I would become an ultramarathoner. The finish lines and medals are fun, but the best part is spending time with my husband and enjoying the running community.

Now that Tim and I are both plant-based and active together, our marriage is thriving. We feel like teenagers, and we’re enjoying life to its fullest. We are passionate about showing others how to transition to a plant-based lifestyle through our classes, social media, and potlucks.

Check out Tim and Heather's new cookbook, Fat Man's Not So Fancy 40 Quick and Easy Plant-Based Food Recipes HERE.