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WNBF Pro Lori Gerbereux
Photo: Jason Breeze
LORI GERBEREUX
A TRUE CHAMPION
By Rich Fitter
In the sport of bodybuilding, every competitor has a reason for getting on stage. Whether it is a chance to relive the glory of past athletic events or celebrating the success of self-improvement, everyone has a story.
But for Lori Gerbereux, her training philosophy says it all: “Move or die.” Lori is the 2008 INBF Hercules champion and winner of a WNBF pro card. And she suffers from terminal brain cancer.
While other bodybuilders complain about the rigors of stringent diets and endless cardio, how many have scheduled infusion and dialysis treatments in the weeks preceding the show? The day after the Hercules, when the winners arrived at Club H Fitness in Jersey City for a photoshoot, Lori checked into the hospital for treatment.
To those in attendance at Manhattan’s Martin Luther King Auditorium on June 28, it was a truly inspiring performance. Many in the audience and backstage had tears in their eyes as Lori posed, moved by her display of courage. The 5-3, 109-lb. New Jersey native was in the best shape of her competitive career and bested competitors in both the Women’s and Masters classes to earn her victory. As her name was announced as a new WNBF pro, a thundering applause could be heard from the crowd and behind the stage curtain. It was an ovation she clearly deserved.
Health and fitness play a role in every aspect of her life. A personal trainer and clinical nutritionist, Lori’s clients vary from business professionals to those with special needs – cancer, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. She also works as a sales rep for Suracell, Inc, a supplement company that designs anti-aging and wellness programs based on individual genetic needs.
Lori began weight training in 1983 while battling severe anorexia. Weighing a mere 58 lbs. and near death, lifting helped her gain control of her disorder and provided an outlet for her emotions. Her new passion led her to compete in bodybuilding and powerlifting, winning a bench press competition in 2003.
In 2004, she competed in her first INBF event, the Warrior Challenge, placing second in the Novice class. At that time she had been diagnosed with cancer and her doctors were not optimistic. Despite her malady, she persevered, improving her physique with dedicated training and proper nutrition.
After a second place finish at the INBF Northeast America in April 2008, she began working with Dr. Joe Klemczewski. With encouragement from WNBF pro Nancy Korblum, whom Lori list as one of her biggest influences, and Dr. Joe’s guidance, Lori peaked perfectly at the Hercules.
“Lori is such a tough, fierce, and proud competitor that she has a hard time even asking for help - even when she needs it most,” says Dr. Joe. “Her friend, Nancy Kornblum, actually contacted me to help Lori initially without Lori even knowing.
“Due to the sensitivity of her medical condition, I had to modify what I would typically do. Even what is safe for a normal competitor could have been dangerous for her, but above all else, I would not compromise her health. She worked as hard as anyone I've ever seen - even going through dialysis and chemotherapy – right up to the show when most competitors are worrying only about tanning and posing. I have all the respect in the world for her and utmost gratitude to Nancy for helping her through the process.”
The next time you don’t feel like training or you think you are too tired to get through a cardio session, think about Lori Gerbereux’s story. After reading this, you probably won’t feel so tired anymore. You can call her a fighter, a warrior or a battler, but most of all you can call Lori Gerbereux a hero.
Editor’s Note: Lori can be contacted at lorigerbereux@aol.com.
