Mary

Mary joined the YMCA as part of Livestrong class #31 at the West Family branch. Mary is a survivor of 4 separate episodes of brain cancer. It took its toll on Mary, causing her to lose more of her ability to function normally with each treatment. At the start of the class, Mary was worried that she would not be able to physically do the work ahead and that her memory would make learning the wellness machines difficult. When she began the program, Mary said, “I don’t know if I am going to be able to do this.”

From the beginning Mary had the support of the class, they stayed by her side every step of the way. By week 9, she was walking on the treadmill without holding on, swinging her arms and walking along with her classmates.  During one class, the group decided they wanted to do chair yoga. Mary decided that she would give it a try, but was scared that she would fall over and make a fool of herself. 

Sue, her instructor, provided Mary with extra support and encouragement by standing beside her through the class. Mary completed the class and enjoyed every moment of it! She was even able to do the standing exercises!  Sue and the class were determined to help Mary succeed and with their help each week, Mary overcame her fear of the wellness machines. By week 11, Mary was using most of the machines on her own!

One week after her Livestrong class finished, Mary took a trip to Germany. She was to meet family she had never met before. While on the trip, Mary had no problems walking or getting around. Mary states “without the Livestrong program, I could not have made this such a successful trip.”

Mary faced many challenges when she began the program, but she gained so much because of the Livestrong program. Her outlook for the future improved and her hard work and positive attitude gave the entire class motivation to work toward their own goals. Although she still faces challenges, Mary can do so much more than she ever dreamed of because of the YMCA and the Livestrong program.

“I can do so much more than I ever dreamed of because of the YMCA and the Livestrong program.”