Knowing your body’s limits

As a woman in the blue-collar industry, I think back on how I’ve treated my body—and honestly, it’s a solid “do as I say, not as I do” moment… lol.

But the thing about my body is this: it’s strong. It has overcome every obstacle placed in front of it and kept going. Still, at 37 years old, I’m now working through an autoimmune diagnosis—one that I’m scared of, but also hopeful about, because I want to feel better.

Since I was 14 years old, I’ve been taking levothyroxine, a synthetic medication that supports thyroid hormone production. As someone who lives with severe mental health conditions alongside an autoimmune disorder, I’ve been fighting for answers since I was 14.

At 37, I wear it like a badge now. I don’t care what it takes—just make the pain stop.

My advice to those coming into the industry is this:

• Find a primary care physician you like and trust
• Find a good chiropractor
• Understand your health insurance and the benefits your company provides
• Know enough about everything so nobody can bullshit you

Chin up. Elbows out.

And remember: the fourth oak tree on the left is who you can go tell your problems to—because nobody cares. Work hard. Harder. I love you. Stay safe, stay warm, and wear your seatbelt.

Some days, 100% looks very different than other days.

Remember that.