One Member’s Story: Finding Strength, Hope, and Community Through LIVESTRONG at the YMCA
This member’s story shares how the West Suburban YMCA is a place where community helps turn cancer recovery into one of strength and belonging. Through programs like LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA, individuals impacted by cancer find more than a place to exercise; they discover a supportive community, compassionate guidance, and a renewed sense of hope.
One LIVESTRONG participant’s journey beautifully reflects the heart of this work. Through movement, connection, and encouragement, she found her way back to strength, balance, and joy. In her own words, she shares how the YMCA became an essential part of her healing.
A Life Interrupted by Cancer
“I would like to share my testimony to encourage people to stay in shape and to seek exercise as a way to heal both the body and the mind,” she begins.
Her cancer journey started in 2019, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent partial surgery followed by radiation therapy. Like many survivors, she hoped the hardest part was behind her. But in 2024, during a routine annual mammogram, she received devastating news that the cancer had returned.
“This time, I had to undergo a mastectomy because the cancer was more aggressive,” she explains.
Following surgery, she faced three months of chemotherapy. Once full of energy and joy, she found herself struggling both physically and emotionally.
“Those were very difficult days,” she recalls. “This treatment brought me very low—into depression, without hope, and completely unbalanced.”
Taking the First Step Toward Healing
She knew she needed something to help her regain her strength and sense of self.
“I knew I had to find something that would bring my health and joy back,” she says.
Although her son had encouraged her to exercise for years, it wasn’t until this moment that she decided to take that advice to heart. She walked into the YMCA near her home, unsure of what to expect—but what she found made all the difference.
“When I arrived to get information, the young woman at the front desk welcomed me so warmly and kindly—it was exactly the attention I needed at that moment,” she shares. “That same day, I signed up and became a member.”
Building Strength, One Class at a Time
Because her body was still very weak, she began with water-based aerobic exercise.
“I decided to start with aerobic exercises in the pool,” she says. “I enjoyed it very much and was warmly welcomed by the ladies in the class.”
She gradually began trying other YMCA classes as well. Even when she struggled to keep up, she never felt out of place.
“Although I was very weak and unable to do much, everyone was always very polite, kind, and supportive,” she explains.
That sense of belonging, of being seen and encouraged, helped her keep coming back.
Discovering LIVESTRONG at the YMCA
One day, she learned about a class designed specifically for cancer survivors.
“The woman at the front desk told me about a teacher named Michelle, who had a class specifically for people who had experienced cancer,” she recalls.
From the moment she met Michelle, she felt supported and understood.
“She introduced me to Michelle, and I was warmly welcomed and received all the care and attention I needed,” she says. “We had two and a half months of very productive classes, and I learned so much.”
The LIVESTRONG classes became a safe and empowering space.
“I felt extremely comfortable during the classes, surrounded by wonderful people—it was truly a memorable group.”
She also expresses deep gratitude for Dorothy and Beth, who were present at every class.
“They helped us and made us feel more confident and comfortable,” she says. “That meant so much to me.”
Restoring Health, Confidence, and Joy
Through her commitment to movement and community, she began to feel like herself again.
“I truly loved participating in the LIVESTRONG classes,” she shares. “My mobility began to return, and my health is gradually being restored through my daily commitment to physical exercise.”
Her story is a powerful reminder that healing is about more than recovery, it’s about rediscovering joy, confidence, and connection.
“I am deeply grateful to everyone who has helped me along this journey,” she says. “Thank you so much. I am truly grateful.”
At the West Suburban YMCA, stories like this inspire us every day. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is not just a program; it’s a community where survivors are supported, empowered, and reminded that they are never alone.
If you would like to support programs like LIVESTRONG at the YMCA and help make stories like this one possible, please consider donating to the West Suburban YMCA Annual Fund. Your gift helps provide financial assistance, health programs, and life-changing opportunities for individuals and families in our community. Give today and help us continue to strengthen lives through the power of the Y.