Meet Erica Harris | Oncology Nurse & Health and Fitness Enthusiast

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Harris and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
As a mom I believe the most important thing I’ve done thus far to impact my girls is teaching them about who God is, and encouraging them to to lead a Godly lifestyle (even as little girls) in order to grow up to be little women of virtue. We spend time together on a regular basis praying and reading/discussing Bible stories. I truly feel it’s important to place God’s truth and word in their hearts as young children, because I want them to grow up and base their decisions in life on the word of God. I share with them the importance of prayer, giving, and serving others.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamt of becoming a registered nurse. I currently work as an oncology nurse which is truly my passion. As a nurse for 10 years, I understand the importance of self care and taking care of your body from the inside out. BUT there was a season in my life back in 2018 where I experienced significant weight gain and found myself weighing almost 300 lbs. I remember busting out of my scrub pants during a shift at work, and it was then my priority became my health and my physical well being. I have since lost over 120 lbs over the last 2 years and gotten on the path to maintaining a healthy lifestyle which I am extremely proud of. My journey to get here has been a roller coaster ride of challenges. I have overcome them by remaining CONSISTENT throughout the process even when I felt I wasn’t seeing results. I’ve learned that having accountability partners was also essential in reaching my goals. I NOW love to share my journey with others through daily motivational pictures and posts. I also prep foods for anyone needing that extra push in reaching their health and fitness goals. I love taking the guesswork out of what someone will eat from day to day by using my personal experience to create healthy meals that fuel the body. My hope is that those who haven’t started their health and fitness journey will be inspired to start, and those who have put it on the back burner will return with passion to their previous fit life. I’m most excited about one day working towards integrating my love and knowledge of fitness and oncology together and become certified as a Cancer Exercise Specialist.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m naturally a homebody, so I don’t get out much. BUT if I had the opportunity to show a friend around Dallas, I’d definitely take them to the Dallas aquarium to start. When I think of an aquarium, I think of fish tanks….but Dallas aquarium is so much more! It’s like a tropical jungle, mini zoo and aquarium-all in one. Next I’d take them to one of my favorite spots for lunch. You can’t come to Dallas without getting Mexican food right? Pappasito’s here we come. Our next stop will be the Dallas Farmers Market. I absolutely love the farmers market because it’s a mixture of restaurants, local specialty foods, vendors, and has sitting areas all around where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in a view of the Dallas skyline or observing the market goers. We’d round out the day with a bit of fun at Bishop Cidercade. I love this place. It’s such a fun and friendly environment. There’s soooo many legit old school video games and pins. They also have a Cider bar which is delicious with great prices.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would first like to recognize my 2 daughters who are my world. They give me strength to keep going, day in and day out. They are the simple reason behind my existence, what gets me out of bed in the morning, and what keeps me fighting. No matter how rough my day has been, being met with their unconditional love, hugs and kisses each day keeps me motivated that I do keep doing this thing called life. I would also recognize my circle of sisters/friends. These ladies have been apart of my life for a very long time and I wouldn’t be where I am without each and every one of them. They have been there for me during every milestone in life, have never given up on me, and we’ve shared many laughs, tears, and memories throughout the years. Next, I’d like to recognize my mother. She is my rock, and by far the strongest woman I have ever known. I thank her for giving me and teaching me strength. Lastly, I’d like to recognize my trainer. He stepped in when I first started my weight loss journey and has been with me every step of the way. He has helped me achieve new goals, challenged me and changed my life and health for the better. It is because of all these wonderful people that I’ve been so successful in my fitness journey which has given me the inspiration to educate as many people as possible on how improve their health and well being.

Website: https://www.fitcommitprep.com/
Instagram: @faithfitcommit_e
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erica.c.harris.18
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkgJlBOk5p3q_qsgJEs8ajQ