3 min
Have you ever asked yourself that question?
Who are you? What defines you?
I grew up on an Indian reservation in northern New Mexico—Nambe Pueblo. From a young age, I had big dreams. Looking back, I realize no one ever tried to put limits on me. I think they saw the fire in my eyes and knew I wasn’t going to stop.
I wanted to become an astronaut. That dream carried me into college, where I was selected to attend the United States Naval Academy Preparatory School in Newport, Rhode Island. I was disappointed I didn’t get directly into the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, but the truth was, I wasn’t ready. Prep school taught me how to study, how to focus, and how to rise to a new level of discipline. But I earned my commission through commitment and determination to not fail. I became a plebe in the Summer of 1999, and it was well worth the effort.
In 2001, just before starting my junior year, I separated from the Academy. I had plans to transfer to New Mexico State University in the spring and complete a degree in mechanical engineering. But God had other plans.
On December 22, 2001, everything changed.
I was driving home drunk after a night of partying in Santa Fe. I was alone on a snowy road, heading back to my mom’s house in Nambe. The last thing I remember was closing the door of my friend’s hotel room. Then… nothing.
I woke up in the ICU on Christmas Eve. A catheter was in me, and panic set in. Nurses and family members explained I had been in a major car accident. My truck was totaled. I had C4/C5 disc compression, a torn knee from being pulled from the wreck with the jaws of life.d
The pain led me to seek help. That’s when my girlfriend at the time introduced me to chiropractic care—an alternative I had never considered. In just one visit, I felt a difference: no pills, just healing through alignment and movement. I was blown away.
A few weeks later, a medical neurologist told me to stop exercising—it would make things worse. I left his office, drove straight to the campus rec center, and worked out.
Fitness had already been a part of my life since 1996. It became my therapy, my discipline, and my way back. I started reading everything I could—books like Body for Life—trying to learn, grow, and train with intention. Coaching had changed my life before, and I leaned into that wisdom.
That spring—Easter weekend—I unintentionally ran a half marathon. I joined the annual pilgrimage from my mom’s house to the El Santuario Church in Chimayo, New Mexico, a sacred Good Friday tradition. Nearly 7 miles each way, I decided to run to honor Jesus’ sacrifice. It was a turning point—another recommitment to Christ. I ran that road because He walked His for us. It may have took me a few decades to realize that, but I found my Way.
Through movement, faith, and grace, I healed. I’ve had injuries since, sure. But I move with purpose now. I might not hit giant jumps on my bike anymore, but I’m stronger, wiser, and more rooted than ever.
God isn’t done with me. And He’s not done with you either.
To answer the question, Who Am I? I am a committed follower of Jesus Christ, I am a fitness expert, I am a lifelong learner, I value my time on this earth, and I want to help as many people find their way back through fitness and commitment.
Want to hear more about why I started the Performance Ranch and how it became a calling?
Chat with a coach to discover how our programs can fit into your lifestyle and help you achieve your goals. Let’s get you started on your fitness journey today!
