Overcoming Life's Challenges with a Positive Mindset

I finally convinced one of my dear friends, the one and only Ivan Tosi, to share his story and journey about living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease (CMT Syndrome), an inherited nerve defect that causes abnormalities in the nerves that supply your feet, legs, hands, and arms. Even though Ivan has lived most of his life in a wheelchair and endured physical challenges, he is one of the most positive and happiest people I know, never complaining about anything that he is struggling with. He lives life to the fullest, never allowing physical limitations to prevent him from doing anything he loves, plus the fact he has an incredible support system between his family and friends who would do anything to help. He is at the gym everyday and feels that it's just as important to exercise your mind, not just your body! He was told he probably wouldn't live past his 20's...and yet here he is today at 52, stronger than ever! Ivan is the reason I started making positive changes in my life and embarked on my health journey over 13 years ago. He said, "Jen, if I can't be depressed, you can't either!" Those words stick with me to this day...If you don't know Ivan from Highwood or see him cruising around town on his scooter, you can catch him at the Highwood Rec Center. He has been the Director for over 9 years and worked there for 24 years. Ivan never likes talking about himself, but he truly has inspired so many people and will help out anyone he can!