I’ve been a member of the Y since 2010, but my journey really began when my heart was only functioning at 25%. My doctor gave me a simple recovery goal: Start at the Y, use the cardio equipment to increase my heart rate, and work on improving my heart function. At first, I could barely manage 5 minutes on the treadmill and struggled to keep up in class. Building a routine and making the Y part of my daily life was tough, too. But I was drawn to the variety the Y offered—everything from cardio equipment to dance and water aerobics classes—all of which helped get my heart rate up. And the people? They were a huge part of why I kept coming. Everyone is so welcoming and genuine. I come for the people.

After just one year of consistent exercise at the Y, my heart function increased by 50%. I was able to come off three of my medications, and the part of my pacemaker that was slowing my heart was disconnected! I can now walk 45-60 minutes on the treadmill with ease. My heart function is actually better than it was before my heart attack, and my doctor is thrilled—he hugs me every time I see him. I used to feel like my body wanted to move, but my heart was holding me back. It was as if my body was running at full speed, but my heart was lagging behind. Now, my heart is keeping pace, and I can do whatever my body wants. That’s all thanks to the Y.

The connection I have with the instructors and other participants is truly special. The instructors hold me accountable and genuinely care about my well-being, which motivates me to keep pushing myself. One moment that really stands out for me was in Dance Fit class. We do a routine to Pharrell’s “Happy” (a long, fast-paced song), and when we first started, I couldn’t do it. I struggled to keep up and often had to stop. But when I finally made it through the entire song, I couldn’t hold back my tears. It was a huge personal victory. Now, I can handle even tougher classes, like Dance It Off. I’m there, and I can do it!