Tag: ForABetterUs

Sister Sister

Posted on by Victoria Stilson

Some bonds are built over a lifetime — and for sisters Cathay and Dottie, that bond has become the foundation of a shared journey toward better health, deeper connection, and lasting commitment. This National Sibling Day, their story is a reminder that sometimes the best support system is the one you’ve had all along — right by your side.

For these two sisters, Cathay and Dottie, the YMCA is more than just a place to work out — it’s a place where commitment, community, and healthy aging come together.

Their journey began with a shared commitment to improving their health. They joined the YMCA with a clear goal: to lose weight and take proactive steps to keep chronic disease, including diabetes, at bay. Nearly four years later, they remain committed to their wellness journey, using the Y as a place to stay active, and continue building healthier lives.

While fitness is a major focus, what keeps them coming back week after week is something deeper. Every Thursday, without fail, they meet for their workout, a built-in buddy system rooted in accountability and encouragement. “It’s hard work, but rewarding work,” they said. Even when they visit different YMCA locations throughout the week, they stay committed. They appreciate the flexibility of being able to use multiple branches — even taking advantage of YMCA locations while visiting family out of state.

Beyond the weights and cardio equipment, they value the Y’s role in fostering connection, especially as they grow older highlighting the importance of Active Older Adult programming and the social opportunities it provides. “Socialization is just as important as the food you eat and the rest you get,” Cathay explained. Through classes, activities, and regular visits, they’ve built friendships that extend beyond the gym floor. “We’ve connected with so many people here. They’ve become our friends.”

When asked what they would tell someone considering joining, their answer was simple: come with a buddy. “I’ll work out with them,” Dottie laughed. For these two, the YMCA isn’t just about fitness — it’s about showing up, staying accountable, building strength, and finding connection. 

LES’ FITNESS JOURNEY

Posted on Updated on by Karen McLellan

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Eastside YMCA Member Les Finnell started off slowly and put in hard work over two years. Here’s his story of inspiration in his own words:

After being rushed to the Emergency Room in an ambulance during an anaphylactic episode in 2016, I remember the doctor telling me “this is your last bus ride; something has to change.” I knew something truly did have to change but did not know how. Back then, daily activities like grocery shopping would exhaust me. I had a bad ankle, after a failed ankle surgery, which limited my mobility, and my weight was the highest it had ever been. How could I exercise when I could barely walk?

I joined the Eastside YMCA two years ago, when I weighed over 400 pounds. At the recommendation of my doctor, I started taking water fitness classes twice a week. The classes were fun, low impact on my ankle, and perfect for my activity level at the time. As time went on, I started losing weight, and my mobility improved. I changed my fitness routine, lifting weights and doing various cardio exercises. I now work out six days a week. I also hired a personal trainer, Jack Newport, and work out with him three days a week. Jack pushes me to stay on track with my nutrition and diet, and to exceed my limits in the gym.

Now, a little more than two years later, I can proudly say I have lost 230 pounds!

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Congratulations, Les, on keeping up your hard work for a healthier you! You’re an inspiration to all!

Senior Week, May 13 – 17

Posted on Updated on by Karen McLellan

Join us in celebrating all the wonderful seniors at the EASTSIDE YMCA! The week is designed to be informative, educational and fun. NON-MEMBERS WELCOME ALL WEEK — BRING IN NON-MEMBERS TO GET EXTRA CHINESE AUCTION TICKETS!

Calendar of Events:

Monday, May 13: Enjoy a healthy snack at our Fresh Fruit Bar for Seniors from 9am till noon in the front lobby.

Tuesday, May 14: Test your balance, strength, agility, flexibility, and more at our Senior Assessments, from 9am till noon in Gym 1.

Wednesday, May 15: Bring your bathing suit, towel, and/or workout clothes to try a variety of land and water classes on Demo Day! Feel free to just observe as well. Classes start at 8am and go until noon.

Thursday, May 16: In this special Senior Week event, staff from UPMC Rehab Services will speak on memory and cognitive ability, as well as offer screening and tips to improve your memory. 11am in the GE Multi-purpose Room.

Thursday, May 16: Pickleball Demo at 11am in Gym 1.

Friday, May 17: You’ve looked at the variety of baskets, put in your tickets for the ones you love, and crossed your fingers. Today’s the day – Chinese Auction drawing at noon!