Stories of Impact
YMCA OF GREATER WAUKESHA COUNTY
PARTNERS IN HEALING THE WHOLE PERSON
Ashley Meyer, Membership & Marketing Specialist | YMCA of Greater Waukesha County
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
On-Going Inspiration for Cancer Survivors
After receiving her cancer diagnosis in 2011, long-time YMCA Member, Monica cancelled her membership. Seven years later, she believes it's the worst thing she could have done for her recovery.
“My Y membership began in 2002, and then began again in 2017. Why two different start dates? Because I made a huge mistake and ended my membership with the Y when I received my breast cancer diagnosis back in 2011. More detail to come on that.
I started coming to the Waukesha Y (back in 2002) for both of my daughters to participate in swim lessons and gymnastics. Recently my younger daughter, Sophie, has been coming to the Y to do cardio (her favorite cardio machine is the elliptical), run on the track, and utilize the specialty fitness area on the 3rd floor; and my husband really enjoys the cycling classes. As for me, I love the group exercise classes, whether it’s Pilates, Cardio Barre, Kickboxing, Aqua Zumba, Aqua HIIT or Raise the Bar, the instructors are awesome!
Being a cancer survivor, I learned that I was eligible to participate in the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program. I graduated from the program in December 2017 and I honestly cannot say enough great things about it. That program was a game changer for me. Going through the program with other cancer survivors, I learned so much more about myself and how my role here at the Y could serve others. As I mentioned above, I ended my membership when I received my cancer diagnosis. That was probably the worst thing I could have done. Everyone’s cancer journey is different, but the one constant that we all need is support. The LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program is an exercise program for cancer survivors, but it also lends itself to being a support group. Participants workout together, celebrate together, cry together and experience success together!
My goal now is to make sure that others don’t make the same mistake I did. Don’t let a cancer diagnosis tell you that can’t do the things you used to do. Sure, you will have setbacks. Sure, you will have some very tough days, but keep going. Keep moving forward. The LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program is here to help you and support you.”
Join us in helping cancer survivors in your community look toward a healthier future.
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#GivingTuesday is November 27