Congratulations to Grace, our August Mom of the Month!
Grace started with us this summer while on maternity leave and has rocked 20+ classes so far! We love having her bright smile and energy in our Boost & strollers classes (with her sidekick 😉)!
Grace, we are glad you found Our Village!
Get to know Grace
Hometown: Wheaton
Tell us who is in your family: My husband Matt is a teacher at York Community High School in Elmhurst. Our son, Jace, is 4 months old.
Current/Previous Career: I am a special education teacher at York Community High School.
What was your childhood ambition? I have always wanted to be a teacher. Both of my parents are teachers and I grew up loving school.
What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood has been an incredible journey so far. I am so honored to see life through a new lens and support my son and husband as we grow as a family.
What is the farthest you have been away from home? Before having Jace I traveled a lot. I have been fortunate to travel to many places including Uganda, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Mexico, and Australia. Since having Jace, travel has been limited but I am looking forward to showing him the world someday!
How did you find FIT4MOM DuPage County? I found FIT4MOM through Athletico in Elmhurst when I was pregnant and doing physical therapy.
How has FIT4MOM DuPage County changed your life? FIT4MOM had provided me with a new community where I genuinely feel supported and accepted by everyone there. I have also felt a sense of pride as I have prioritized my own health while still spending time with my son.
Favorite exercise: I enjoy bicep curls and shoulder presses with the band.
Proudest Moment: I am proud of myself for continuing through grad school to get my Master’s degree while raising my 4 month old.
What is one thing you have learned so far from this year? After becoming a mom this year, I have learned that I owe my mom about a thousand thank yous for everything she did for me and my siblings when we were growing up.
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us!: In junior high school I helped start a nonprofit organization called U4Uganda. Our mission is to raise money to support the schools in Uganda so more children are able to receive an education. I have been to Uganda twice for mission trips and I hope to return soon!