nutritionally conscious, Heidrich was shocked to hear the diagnosis. “I was 47 years old when I was told
the results of the biopsy. I thought I was going to die because of the symp- toms I was experiencing,” recalls the 82-year-old, who not only beat multiple malignancies without chemotherapy or radiation, but was the first cancer patient to complete an Ironman Triath- lon. This “Ironlady’s” holistic approach includes a whole food, 100 percent plant-based diet, featuring oats, quinoa and brown rice. “When we give our body its proper fuel, it will function at its optimal level,” remarks Heidrich, who has dedicated her life to re-edu- cating others about diet and investing in her ongoing athletic achievements.
On the Road Maintaining good habits while traveling can be challenging. Strong adds healthy salts to structure his drinking water and brings along superfoods such as green vegetable powders to use when he can’t
access organic produce. To optimize his air quality while away from home, Strong uses a personalized air purifier that creates ozone. San Francisco-based, three-time
Olympic swimming gold medalist and world champion Natalie Coughlin remains dedicated to better diet choices without deprivation. “When I travel, I always bring my own snacks. I like dark chocolate-covered almonds, a natural sweet that also supplies protein and fiber. To stay hydrated, I drink herbal teas, especially mint,” says Coughlin, who also incorporates a tart green smoothie every morning with kale, parsley, collards, celery, citrus and frozen pineapple. At home, “I like to be informed
about where my meat comes from and how the conditions are for the animal. If I roast a chicken, I will use every part, including the bones, to make a stock,” she says. Her holistic approach includes a consistent yoga regimen, meditation and application of essential oils.
High Expectations Even under the best of circumstances, professional athletes encounter diffi- culties, but when faced with enormous obstacles, the best can get even better. “I’ve faced injuries and illness during pivotal times in my life and career, but I always approached it with the inten- tion to be proactive, rather than being reactive,” advises Coughlin. For Strong, confronting tragedy
with the right attitude offers possibil- ity. “Thirteen years ago, I was hit by a car and lost my leg, but now I see that moment as a blessing instead of a curse. It was a hardship that tested my limits, but in the end, it propelled me to achieving dreams I didn’t even know I had.” Nearly four decades after her grim
diagnosis, Heidrich embodies hope for all of us when she says, “It is never too late to adopt a better way.”
Marlaina Donato is a freelance writer, author and multimedia artist. Connect at
MarlainaDonato.com.
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