Season of Life

     Everyone has a story to tell. Some stories are sad, some are uplifting, some inspire change, others inspire greatness, and some stories encompass them all. Throughout my day to day life within the gym sometimes I forget how powerful the CrossFit Community can be. It is not just a workout! To someone it may be the difference between life and death. CrossFit empowers people and no matter what ability you have it can instill pride in yourself that you may never have had before. I hope No Mercy provides each of you with something that makes each of you feel good about yourself, and provides you an outlet to challenge yourself as an athlete, and a person. At the very least I hope No Mercy provides you an hour a day that you can be amongst friends and to some even consider us family.
     From the very first day of meeting Gail Marker, NMCF's celebrity Grandma. I knew there was something special about her. She shows up nearly everyday and outworks many of the people half her age. She does what she can to the best of her ability and no matter how difficult the task she goes hard. Gail has one of those life stories that is all encompassing, and she is proof that no matter how bad your situation is you can overcome! I am so proud of Gail and all she has accomplished in her short CrossFit journey. I am glad we could be part of her story of redemption. So in her own words here is Gail's story.Thank you for sharing Gail, I am sure there are many others out there that can benefit from reading this........
     "What No Mercy means to me"
     I have been coming to No Mercy since the first of August and was hooked from the very first visit. I not only feel better and stronger, but the new found mental strength I have is unbelievable. I told Theresa the other day that I feel POWERFUL mentally.
     Seven years ago I was in a marriage of 20+ years. I thought I could never get out of it. It was abusive all the way around. The intimidation was horrible. Everything from him drawing his fist back to punch me to threatening to shoot me. I forgot that I was human, let alone a female, and I had no self esteem whatsoever.
     After just a few months at NMCF, I now know I'm not who or what he told me I was. I know who and what I am. I am a NMCF athlete and a female at that. We just went to court in December, and I walked in took HIS seat, because I would always avoid him and stay out of his sight. I looked straight at him several times and he wouldn't look at me! He has to know that I'm not that weak person anymore. We will be going to court again soon and I will just have to show him again.
     So the strength I feel, and the support I receive each time I walk through the NMCF doors just gets stronger and stronger. I rejoice each time I finish a wod, let alone set a new PR. So thanks to Joey and Holly for the fruition to chase their dream, and to Teresa for bringing me here, the trainers for encouragement and patience, and all the NMCF athletes for their support and constant push.
     I know I will never be able to keep up with you young pups, but as long as I can I will remain a NMCF athlete. To all of you that support, and encourage me THANK YOU, because each of you have helped me. Oh yeah! I take great pride in being NMCF's oldest athlete. No rocking chair for this grandma! I am going to rock the wod's in a modified way! My divorce should be final by the end of this year after seven long years of battling in court! Whoo-Hoo!

We are definitely glad you have joined our lil family Gail and we are super happy for your new found confidence. I hope I have your vigor when I am your age!!!!!!