Fitness coach Wendy Ida takes the first step in a harrowing journey toward self-acceptance and physical well-being.

For Ida, the most meaningful thing in her life is the gift she brings to others. "I help people jump-start the process of taking control of their lives. I love fitness and health. It helps me feel a sense of power, strength, youth, and energy like nothing else does."

Last weekend Wendy Ida emailed me that she was going to an event. It being a holiday, I was thinking it'd involve the beach. But no -- Ida was gearing up for a competition, and went on to win two first-place trophies. Ida's 60 years old.