Changes Ahead in 2019! Wellness Goals that Work for You!

“Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”  Norman Vincent Peale

As the year winds down, hopefully more changes than tearing off the last page of the 2018 and replacing it with a 2019 calendar. Hopefully, 2019 challenges us to set some wellness goals that push us beyond aimless mediocrity and last year’s fitness notches. Hopefully, 2019 changes us into more functionally-fit, all-around healthier version of ourselves.

 One Y member’s 2019 goals don’t include the moon…yet. (Though a few years ago, Terry crossed off visiting every continent from his bucket list. He and his wife traveled to Antarctica, undeterred by a diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer. His cancer bout merely postponed the trip a bit.) Now, Terry plans an Asian tour to Thailand, China and Vietnam in the fall of 2019. His travel companions include a daughter-in-law and one or two of his sons. Of all the destinations on the itinerary, Vietnam ranks highest. This journey marks the Army vet’s first visit to the country since his tour of duty there after being drafted in 1966. In addition, five of his brothers were stationed in Vietnam from 1961 through 1969.

 Remarkably, Terry just returned to the YMCA of Broome County in spring 2018 after a medical absence. On October 31, 2017, he suffered a systemic infection in his foot that eventually cost him two toes and nearly his life. He fought his way back to mobility after months in the hospital and then a rehab facility. His YMCA AquaBody Blast class welcomed him with cheers in April.

 As Terry regained strength, a renewed sense of adventure rallied. So, as he set his eyes on Asia, he changed up his YMCA workouts by adding an hour in the Wellness Center before his water fitness classes four or so times per week.

 Terry’s amped aim is to build the endurance and strength he’ll need for travel and seeing the Asian sites…including the Great Wall of China.

 His plans are still being finalized. However, Terry is confident he will be ready thanks to the YMCA of Broome County’s community of support…and lots of focused hard work in 2019!

Where are your wellness goals taking you in 2019?