We’re excited to share that our Chompian of the Month for Month is a longtime friend of the Chomps’ team, Nikkya Hargrove, who we were introduced through via her work at Harboring Hearts.
Can you tell us about yourself - what you do, a bit about your story, etc.?
I am the Vice President of Operations & Programs at Harboring Hearts. Since 2018, I've worked alongside a female-led organization which is incredibly empowering. At Harboring Hearts, we provide financial and emotional support to cardiac surgery and transplant patients and their families so they can focus on their health. As a Black woman, I am intimately familiar with the importance of heart health. In the African American community, heart disease is the #1 cause of death. My mother, at the age of 42, died from heart disease. I am incredibly proud of the work I do each and every day, getting to help families when they need it the most.
What’s your best tip on how to stay positive?
I firmly believe that having hope will get you very far. For me, having hope is one of the greatests gifts.
What’s your workout routine?
I recently started going back to the gym after a very long hiatus. I love spin and in the summer, I love spending as much time as I can outside from hiking with my family every weekend to heading to the beach to bike riding around my neighborhood. Staying active is good for my soul, mental, and physical health.
How do you consider yourself a “game changer?” This is 100% open to your interpretation!
For me, being a "game changer" means to push past adversity no matter the odds. I live by the belief that we are not defined by our past and we are the only ones who can change our present and future.
What’s the best thing you do for your personal health everyday (mental or physical)?
I write. I am a freelance writer and I have a book (a memoir) coming out called "A Black, Queer Woman's Journey to Motherhood" from Algonquin Books.
What is your favorite Chomps product?
How does Chomps fuel your lifestyle?
I am a mom of 6yo twin daughters, one of whom is an incredibly picky eater, and a 15 year old son. When we head to Whole Foods or Trader Joe's, we always pick up a few beef sticks. It gives me great relief to know that when I can give her a healthy snack, like a Chomps beef stick, that I am doing something good for her little body which invariably makes my life easier - no arguments when it comes to eating a Chomps Beef Stick.
