As part of our ongoing series to recognize inspirational members of our StoneCutter community, I’d like to introduce you to Jessica Ybarbo. Jess was bit by the CrossFit bug in 2011, and thankfully for us, joined our gym last August. This 51-year-old wife and mother of 4 exemplifies the meaning of grit and perseverance.
Her husband of 30 years, is a West Point graduate and proudly served in the Army for 32 years (thank you for your service sir!). Her sons, Anthony, 30 years old and a graduate of Texas A&M, and Michael, 28 years old, is also a West Point graduate (thank you for your service Michael!). Jordon and Shawn, 15-year-old twin girls, currently attend Tomball Memorial and occasionally join mom in the gym for partner workouts.
Born in Mexico and raised in Pearland, Jess attended West Point Academy for 1 year, then completed her undergraduate studies and MBA at Texas A&M Central and Texas A&M Commerce, respectively. She worked in the Banking/Finance sector for 20 years and is now a stay-at-home mom until the twins finish high school. In addition to CrossFit and spending quality time with her family, Jess enjoys baking, crafts and watching movies.
Unfortunately, beginning in 2023 and continuing through 2024, Jess was faced with an unexpected challenge that would test both her physical and mental limits. After battling ongoing knee issues (deteriorating cartilage) during her teenage years, she was forced to undergo a full replacement of both knees. Her world was rocked and it appeared that her CrossFit days were over. Two grueling surgeries later followed by countless hours of painful physical therapy only served to strengthen her desire to do the unthinkable…a return to CrossFit. Remarkably, after 5 months of rehabilitation, Jess willed her way back to her “happy place” (i.e. gym) with two new knees. Jess’ recovery is singularly one of the most inspirational and remarkable recoveries I have ever witnessed during my 13-year career as a CrossFit athlete/coach. She is the epitome of perseverance, grit and dedication. You will never, ever, hear her complain or seek out sympathy for her physical limitations. In fact, based on her current skill level, I challenge anyone to conclude that she’s actually working with 2 artificial knees.
We are truly blessed to have Jess as a member of our community and we should all be inspired by her amazing life journey.
Keep pounding the rock Jess…we are so proud of you!
