I’ve had two great struggles in my life; The first was growing up feeling “un-beautiful”. From elementary school through college I struggled with my weight, I’d even go as far as to say I was the fat girl. I also had acne early on and it’s something I battle to this day. I don’t have to tell you that girls are mean…and I admit, until recently, I was no exception. Girls are especially cruel to one another, which can make high school a brutal time for anyone, especially a girl who’s ashamed of her body. Even though I worked hard to shed 60+ pounds since college and have outgrown the worst of my teenage skin troubles, weight and self-esteem issues will always be part of my journey.
When I lost the weight I felt like I had won my battle, overcome my odds, passed my test. At 22, I felt…
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Hannah Jane Nancarrow is a San Diego State University alumni, with a B.A. in journalism and new media. After graduating in 2011, Hannah worked in local T.V. news before her dad was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Hannah managed and contributed to her dad’s incredibly popular blog (thenancarrowproject.com) and social media platforms before he passed away, after 11 months of bravely battling and blogging. The diagnosis was a catalyst for her own writing and for following each whim and dream. Today, Hannah writes her own blog and has been a keynote speaker at San Diego Women's Week, Relay for Life, and a top fundraiser for cancer-related causes throughout San Diego. Hannah also has a passion for health and fitness, since losing 75 pounds in 2011. She earned her Spinning® and group fitness instructor certifications, and teaches weekly cycle classes in Encinitas, California. Hannah also earned her real estate license and works in the family business, Nancarrow Realty Group, in North County San Diego.
The Nancarrow Project 
Hello, Hannah,
Our 52 year old son was died in an auto accident six weeks after our granddaughter turned 18. The following January 2012 she entered the Miss California Teen USA competition and won the title. Alexa Jones attends the University of Arizona in Tucson now. She entered the Miss Arizona USA competition this year and was chosen First Runner Up. She says losing her dad and having to be strong for her family helped her to focus on the important things in her life and gave her a strong will to achieve her goals. She is now 20 and one of the most beautiful and grounded young person I know. I am a proud grandma.
Personally, this has been a time of struggle for me. However, I am determined to live well for my family. Sending love and hope.
Shirley Hardin Jones, Ramona
Sorry, the first line should read son died, etc.
What an incredibly touching story! You must be so proud of your sweet granddaughter, she sounds like an extraordinary young woman. Thank you so much for sharing. XOXO Hannah
Nagging follow up Hannah, the feminist and voice of my 30 year old Encinitas daughter tells me that we are more than our appearances and the gift you share is your mind. The struggle is important and makes you able to communicate across generations and hold true. I am recovering from breast cancer and never made the time to be healthy physically. Now I am seeing the benefits in more of an inner Chi way. Moving is easier, laughing is more spontaneous, and noticing the moments that are precious. Please don’t lose sight of that. By the way, I think being 40 lbs. overweight will never change but I will be at the beach enjoying it!
Hannah, when you were close to Kindegarten I lived in Encinitas and you were a little younger than my daughters. I always thought you were adorable and your parents were so good to you. I am fully aware of the pressure in school that you felt since my daughters were probably picked on more than you. Those messages are so damaging from your peers, especially. As you noticed it seems to be a rite of passage. If you can change it, more power to you!
Hannah, your words are so encouraging. Thanks for sharing!
THE GOOD BOOK SEZ *THE TRIAL OF OUR FAITH WORKS PATIENCE AND PATIENCE PERSEVERANCE…” THEY ARE DIFFICULT LESSONS TO LEARN BUT WORTH THE EFFORT…BLESSINGS ON YOUR DAY….WE ALL LOVED AND MISS YOUR DAD…STILL!
If girls/women could only support each other!
Sent from my iPhone
You definitely have your dad’s gift of drawing me into your story! I enjoy reading about your life and hope you continue to blossom. Your dad is very proud of you, I’m sure!
Hannah after reading this, in my opinion, you have already won! God’s continued blessings on your journey. I’m excited for you. Keep us posted 🙂
Sent from my iPhone
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To: Hannah:
I have always thought you were beautiful – inside/out!
Congratulations – Keep going!
Judy