TASTY MOTHER OF THE YEAR 2007

 
(from left) Haley, Joann, Savannah and Shea Fletcher

JOANN FLETCHER: A TRIBUTE TO A TASTY MOM

Meet Joann Fletcher.  She was nominated by her 3 daughters, Savannah, Haley and Shea, and when we heard them tell her story we knew we had found our Tasty Mom of the Year for 2007.

Joann and her family live in Malibu, California, one of the most beautiful settings in the world.  As a personal trainer, she has spent her career spreading the word about healthy living.  A disciplined runner and a dedicated surfer, Joann has devoted her life to eating well and doing good for herself, her kids and the planet.  About a year ago, as she was about to embark a trip to Bali with her husband -- Joann was diagnosed with breast cancer.  No one who knew her could believe that such a healthy woman who "does all the right things" could be sick.  They said, "if she could get cancer, then anyone could" ... and that is the truth.  Anyone can.

It is at this point in Joann's journey that her true awakening occurred: she simply refused to let cancer get her down.  Even under the effects of chemotherapy, she forced herself back up on her feet, ate well and started exercising immediately.  She was determined to persevere.  Now, a year after her treatment, Joann is miraculously cancer-free.  Through her experience, her daughters have developed an even greater appreciation of life.  Their mother is not only their hero ... she is an inspiration for everyone.

Here are all the reasons Joann's girls think their mom truly is ... the Tasty Mom of the Year!

1. She has always put our needs before her own.

2. She has unwavering faith in our abilities; constantly motivating and encouraging us to achieve the goals (however unreachable) we set.

3. She lives by the values she teaches us—healthy lifestyle, moral standards, environmental awareness, and charitable conscience.

4. She loves us unconditionally!

5. She demonstrated true courage, tenacity, and spirit during her bout with cancer; her strength is inspirational.

6. She has inculcated us with an understanding of our good fortune, and has taught us humility.

7. She works hard but plays harder!

8. Her relationships are those of mutual respect and earnest friendship.

9. She has instilled us with a sense of responsibility for our planet and its future.

10. Her athleticism has inspired us to remain physically active for the remainder of our lives.