Mississippi's Newest Grassroots Star!

You may know, GirlTrek has inspired volunteers across the country. Some lead as "Gold Star Trekkers", walking every single day and sharing their progress on social media. You know who they are. Dionne in Newark. Suz in Philly. Some volunteers organize walking teams in their neighborhoods, offices and churches. And some organize monthly events in their city inspired.

We'd like to shine the light on one of those volunteers. Cynthia Thompson.

Cynthia Thompson is a powerhouse volunteer. She is leading the GirlTrek charge in Jackson, Mississippi. This month, she and the fired up trekkers in her city celebrated the one-year anniversary of their movement-building efforts. The media in Jackson have taken notice! Here is a recent story featuring Cynthia in the field and another interview of her in the studio. Lastly, here is a touching video that one of the volunteers compiled. Want to know more about Cyn? We took a moment to ask her three questions!

GT: Cyn, tell us your personal health story.

Cynthia: I've lost a total of 116 lbs. I thank God for placing you all in my path. My journey of transformation began a little over a year ago and since that time I have accomplished more in my life than I have in my lifetime it feels. GirlTrek have been so moving (literally) in my life and I love that fact that I am able to encourage others to move and have such an awesome community of women and girls to back us all up!!!! (See Cynthia's "before" picture)

GT: Have you seen progress with others yet?

Cynthia: Oh, my whole family is on board. My husband was at 425 pounds. Now he's around 340. He's still working on it. All of my six children have become active. We are a completely different family all from me getting off the couch. Also, in 2013, I encouraged an older sister from my church, Ms. Lillie Jacobs, to come join us for a walk. She was very hesitant thinking she would not be able to keep up, but I personally vowed to walk with her every step of the way and I did and she completed 1 mile and was too thrilled. Since then, she has come every Saturday Morning and THIS WEEK, she won a 3rd place trophy in her age category in her very first organized 5k! That is awesome and makes me continue doing what I do. (Cynthia pictured in whit headband on bottom right)

GT: What keeps you going?

Cynthia: My biggest struggle throughout this process has been the battle in my own mind, voices telling me that I can't do it, but I choose to listen and believe the voice of God telling me that I can do all things. I believe God is holding my hand and guiding me every step of the way through this process and I'm so excited with a great spirit of expectation of where He's going to lead me. Many have asked, "what's your goal weight" or "how much do you want to lose", at this point in my life, I want to go wherever the Lord leads me and my goal is to reach size "healthy".

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