Sandra’s Saga: Chapter 3

I Am Sandra: Chapter Three – Finding My Footing

It’s been weeks since I decided to start walking, and I’d love to tell you it’s been smooth sailing. But let’s be honest—it hasn’t. There were days when the rain tapped against the window and I convinced myself that I’d “go tomorrow.” Other mornings, the bed was too warm, too soft, and the weight of life’s exhaustion was heavier than my knees ever could be.

Excuses piled up quicker than I care to admit.

That’s when Dilma entered the picture. Dilma is a friend I’ve known for years—someone who always said she wanted to get healthier but never quite found the right motivation. One day over coffee, I confessed how hard it was to keep going, and she confessed she needed a push too. So, we made a pact: we would hold each other accountable. No skipping. No excuses. Rain or shine.

Having Dilma changed everything. When my knees ached, she reminded me to stretch first. She’d squat down on the sidewalk, showing me moves to loosen up before we set off. When the air turned crisp, she’d show up with a smile and a hat, laughing, “No cold weather’s stopping us!” And when she felt down, I was there to nudge her forward, encouraging her to keep moving for her weight-loss goals.

The first day we walked together felt like a reset. We didn’t talk about big plans or heavy worries. We simply moved, step by step, down the street, the sound of our shoes tapping against the pavement. Before long, we were walking longer distances. My knees still reminded me of their limits, but they didn’t buckle or burn the way they used to. Slowly but surely, they were getting stronger.

And the changes? They’ve been small, but noticeable. My posture feels better—straighter, somehow—and I can fill my lungs a little deeper with every breath of cool, fresh air. My body doesn’t fight against the movement like it did at the start.

But let me be real: some of the old problems haven’t disappeared. My forgetfulness still creeps up now and then, and those urinary issues haven’t magically resolved. I know I still have work to do.

But here’s the thing—I’m showing up. With Dilma’s encouragement and my own growing sense of accountability, I’m out there every day now, moving forward, even when it’s hard. And that’s a win.

I’ve realized that progress isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s about taking a step when every part of you wants to sit still.

This is my journey, and I’m still on the road. My knees are stronger, my will is firmer, and I have a friend walking beside me.

I am Sandra damn it . I’m finding my footing. And I’m not stopping here.