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Hi, my name is Amy, and I’ve had the privilege of knowing Julie almost my entire life. We grew up together as best friends through grade school, and throughout the years, I’ve watched her grow into one of the strongest, God loving, most vibrant, and deeply compassionate people I know.
Julie has spent most of her life helping others become the strongest versions of themselves—physically, mentally, and emotionally. As the owner of her own training facility, she didn’t just build bodies—she built confidence, resilience, and community.
Her work touched a wide range of people:
️**Bodybuilding competitors
**Beauty pageant contestants
**Sports-specific athletes
**Individuals on personal transformation and weight loss journeys
**Children developing strength and coordination
**People battling Parkinson’s disease
**Individuals with disabilities
Julie poured her heart and soul into every single person she trained. Her passion was never about appearances—it was about making people feel strong, healthy, and empowered from the inside out.
Now, as Julie fights the hardest battle of her life, it’s our turn to lift her up—with love, support, and gratitude for the lives she’s changed.
A few years ago, Julie was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. She’s kept her battle private until recently, quietly fighting with all the strength and grace we’ve always admired in her. Over the past three years, she has undergone intense treatments, including three brain surgeries to remove tumors, radiation, chemotherapy, and 3 blood transfusions. She still has another brain surgery that is also needed. Despite it all, Julie remains the fierce, faith-filled woman we love.
Sadly, her illness has forced her to step away from her career and passion. On top of mounting medical expenses—many not covered by insurance—Julie is the sole caretaker of her beautiful teenage daughter. As many of us know, parenting alone is no easy task, especially while navigating a serious illness.
We are raising funds to help Julie cover:
• Ongoing medical treatments and therapies
• Rehabilitation and recovery needs
• Living expenses and support for her daughter
Every dollar helps and will go directly to supporting Julie’s healing journey and her family. Whether you're able to give a little or a lot, your donation is a blessing beyond measure.
Julie has given so much to her community—let’s come together and give back to her in her time of need. She was kind enough to share her story below so she may be able to help someone else.
Thank you for your kindness, support, and prayers.
A Journey I Never Expected:
Three years ago, I checked into the ER for unrelated health concerns. During that visit, they discovered a mass on the side of my breast under my arm. I was told it was likely a cyst and advised to let it run its course, but to keep an eye on it.
Fast forward to July 2024 — I was back in the ER, this time with severe pain in my side. That’s when I learned I needed an emergency appendectomy. During scans related to that issue, a concerned doctor noticed the mass and strongly recommended I get it checked out by a specialist. I didn’t hesitate. I made an appointment with Tampa General Hospital, knowing their reputation for exceptional care.
In August 2024 — exactly one year ago — I received a life-changing diagnosis: Stage 4 HER2-positive cancer, one of the most aggressive and fast-growing types. I was told I had just weeks to live. The cancer had already spread and metastasized — from the breast to the collarbone, both lungs, liver, femur, pelvic bone, sternum, and recently, to my brain. Two months ago, I underwent three brain surgeries in an effort to save my life. I stayed in the hospital for three weeks, and I still have one more surgery ahead, after I complete radiation and chemotherapy.
This has been the hardest, most humbling experience of my life.
But through it all, the outpouring of love and support has kept me going. To every single person who took time to reach out, send flowers, pray, or simply think of me — thank you. Your kindness has overwhelmed me with gratitude and strength.
And every day, I remind myself of the very words I used to tell all of you, my clients, my friends, and my community:
“If I just show up, it can work for me too.”
Love you all very much- Julie
Organizer and beneficiary
Julie Rizco
Beneficiary


