Monica Walker
Investing in Herself...
“I aspire to be like my mother, a woman of faith, good values, and a positive attitude”. Monica Walker’s mother would certainly be proud. Her mother, who passed away in May 2005 from Carcinoid Syndrome, was the most influential person in her life. “She is my role model, was my mentor, my best friends, and most significant confidant. I miss her, but still hold my relationship with her close to my heart”. The faith her mother had in God through her sufferings is the motivation and strength that helps Monica get through life’s challenges. If you had met Monica, her joyful sweet spirit would never indicate an individual who may become bogged by challenges. After learning what all she does in one day, I was left to ask my self how does she do it.
At 50 years old, Monica is a pillar of health. She gets in a workout every weekday for
at least an hour at the East Bank Club in Chicago before work where she does
cardio and some weight and core training at least 3 times a week. “I am 50
years old-weight bearing exercises can help offset the effects of
aging/osteoporosis”. She also engages in a variety of other physical activities
on the weekends from running, biking, cycling, or an occasional step class on
Saturdays. For her, working out is not only helping to keep her physically fit
but helps her to manage stress and stay mentally sound. Being a native of
Houston, she enjoys the outdoors.
She spoke fondly of her grandfather who raised cows and horses near
where she grew up. Se would often
times participate in the care of the animals. “I have a rich appreciation for
and am inquisitive about the order of nature and can be quite happy with the
simple joy that can be achieved by being with nature”.
Find more of her story in the 2010 Winter Issue : Subscribe Now!
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Chicago's Cover Story
Deirdre Joy Smith
Power is an organization that provides opportunities to build strong networks. It’s a great way to meet interesting, connected women and build a network in a convivial atmosphere. Deirdre says she has always had a strong support system so she understands why this concept works well for women.
Her blue collar, working class parents were able to put her and all her siblings through college without the assistance of any college loans. They also stressed the importance of exposure to different environments and experiences. Ms. Smith says she was able to learn the significance of learning the corporate culture by attending functions with her sister who was working in corporate America. Deirdre knows and acknowledges
that strong women have sacrificed to see her move forward. This is where she gets her strong sense of community and giving back to be a living example for the next generation.
It was also her sister that had another profound impact on her life when it came to making a decision about making a change regarding her health and wellness. Deirdre says that her sister gave her a “tap on the shoulder” about her weight. “We need to receive and thank people in our lives who are willing to be there for us.” This hard working, businesswoman says that was her wake up call. “We need to talk about health to
bring it to the forefront.” Deirdre says she keeps prayer inside her sphere of influence, keeps negativity out and limits conversations that are not productive.
Power’s president acknowledges, that her mother has been both a mental and financial supporter for her
during her journey and that without her she wouldn’t be where she is now. Deirdre also says that the passing of her father has had a significant impact on her health, life and career. “Life is short and you should value the time that you spend with people and what you do.” Her father was always supportive of all the paths that she chose to take and as she finds herself ready to make decisions she is ready to go to him for advice.
The fact that that Deirdre’s father died of prostate cancer has increased her desire to be healthy. She shared that her family knew something was wrong and out of the ordinary. She believes that women (wives, daughters, sisters, aunts) need to check each other and our families regarding health. Tap each other on the shoulder and encourage each other to take better care of ourselves. Listen to the signals that our body
is giving us. “I now workout everyday.” Deirdre says her alertness is better, self-confidence and
of course the weight is coming off.
(Special thanks to Deirdre’s trainer Arron Muhammad and Makeup Artist Adrienne from Enhancing U Beauty)