Becoming A Business Owner With Lung Cancer

Seven years ago, when I was diagnosed, I was very fit and was lifting heavy weights as a crossfitter. Never did I dream that at 46 I would be squatting 215 lbs., deadlifting 250 lbs., benching 105 lbs., and Olympic lifting. Before my diagnosis, my dream was to open up my own CrossFit box (gym) but when I got sick, I thought that dream was over.

Little did I know that I was going to make it to see 5 years and now it’s 7 and I’m still standing strong!

Coaching gave me purpose and hope

Before my diagnosis, I signed up to get certified, but ended up in the hospital and had to reschedule my class for my certification. After my treatment, I decided to take a chance and get certified. So I gave them a call to reschedule. I was rescheduled for March of 2016, I wasn't sure if I would even pass because of everything I was going through.

But I did it and I started coaching at the place where I went to go workout. Coaching gave me a sense of purpose, helping others to reach their goals. To get healthier and fit and it also helped me get through that year.

Opening my own CrossFit gym

In December of 2015, my oncologist told me “you’re a walking miracle” you’ll be around for a long time. So, I started to dream again and thought about opening up that CrossFit box after all. My husband and I talked it over, did some researching, put a plan together, and went for it. I took that chance and risk and I’m glad I did. I opened up my CrossFit gym in September of 2016.

During the 3 1/2 years of my business, I not only coached CrossFit but also coached boot camp. I meet wonderful people and helped them get fit, become healthier, eat right, practice consistency, and stay determined. I shared with them my story, my journey with lung cancer. I would tell them, if I Juanita Segura a lung cancer patient/survivor can open up my own business, you can do anything in life! We will never know what we can accomplish without trying and taking a chance.

Anything is possible when you put your mind to it

Unfortunately, COVID-19 came and so did the pandemic. I had to close down my box (gym) in March of 2020. But I don’t regret opening up my business. I am so thankful I did and for the opportunity to become a businesswoman. It taught me that you can do anything you put your mind and heart in. Yes, you can do it even with a lung cancer diagnosis.

Running a business can be stressful. But oh so worth it. Lung cancer should NOT stop you from doing what you always wanted to do or making your dream come true! It should encourage you to go after that dream no matter what it is, no matter how small or big. Go live, dream, and conquer it.