When I started this Obesity Program my main goal was to lose weight. I truly thought losing weight would cure most of my health problems and make my life whole again. When you go to the doctor and you are told at each visit, "If you would just lose some weight, your health would improve....." Sooner more than later you start to believe that weight loss is a cure-all to what's troubling you.

Well, with this program I gained more mental freedom than I could ever imagine. The exercise routine has completed me in more ways than I could ever explain.

Visiting the Southeast "Y" branch was where I learned about this program. When I read about the Obesity Program I thought, why not give it a try, nothing is working. After waiting 3 months to get into the program I remember thinking, "I hope this is worth the wait." My health was continually getting worse and my body was getting bigger.

Once I was accepted, James Whittaker (Old Fort YMCA) helped me with a routine on the exercise equipment and I started water aerobics. It only took a few weeks for me to realize how alert I felt. My brain was functioning better mentally and my memory was improving. My moods had improved and I did not feel blue all day. My anxiety was subsiding or no longer there and the insomnia went away also. I remember thinking, "It can't get any better than this!" But it did! Do I dare mention that I also feel more attractive now.

For me this program was and is a blessing. On average I workout 3-4 times per week, sometime more. Through this program I have lost weight but I have gained so much more. My doctor is pleased with my overall health improvement as a result of exercising. My arthritis condition is much better and my blood pressure is under control. I'm showing improvement in my cholesterol numbers and learning how to deal with stress levels better.

The exercises have helped teach me a balance which demonstrates how to erase the pain through water exercises and land aerobics. Most weeks I am in the water 2 times a week and land aerobics 3 times a week.

I have met some beautiful people, from all walks of life. We talk nutrition, vitamin supplements and skin care. We take time-out sauna, where we encourage each other's progress. We laugh, we fellowship and we even cry together.

I refer to all of you as MY "Y" FAMILY. In my heart, I have adopted all of you. I have found peace and happiness at the YMCA.

THANKS to all of the people in the Obesity Program and other persons at the YMCA, you truly COMPLETE ME.

Thanks,

Leonia Holloway

Susie M. Taylor is a dedicated and committed member of the Obesity Program that is held at the Southeast Family YMCA. She met all the requirements and joined the program in July 2007. With the determination and having the will for a healthier lifestyle change, Susie committed herself to making sure that her health is a priority, she attended the YMCA on a regular basis with at least 5 visits per week. She attends all the fitness and health meetings that are held by the YMCA. By looking at Susie you can tell that she has changed her eating habits and is on the road to a healthy lifestyle change. A report from Susie's doctor confirmed the great job that she has been doing. His report states, "because Susie Taylor has committed in her mind to have a healthier lifestyle change, through vigorous exercise she now looks and feels great." Susie's blood pressure has normalized, she does not have symptoms of hypertension, she is free from symptoms of angina (chest pain) of CHF (congested heart failure) and she does not sense palpitations. Her doctor is very impressed with what she has done with diet and consistent exercise and so am I.

Fort Wayne Cardiology
Doctor Ronald J. Landin M.D.

I would like to thank you for the opportunity to try the YMCA. I went into a rehab center in 2007 and I could not even think about getting in shape and feeling well after 20+ years of alcoholism that almost destroyed my life. I regret that I lost everything due to my alcoholism. But I'm still alive after 5 months of sobriety. I know that I am on the right track and that I will overcome this. The membership that I received to the YMCA was a GREAT start to my new life. Thanks for your time and thanks to your employees and volunteers for their help and patience. Thank you and God Bless!
— YMCA Member

If you have any YMCA stories or memories that you would like to share, please e-mail them to sarah_firestine@fwymca.org