Category: Healthy Living

World’s Largest Rubber Duck Makes a Splash in Myrtle Beach!

Posted on Updated on by Jillian Westerfield

Get ready to quack up, Myrtle Beach! The World’s Largest Rubber Duck, known as “Mama Duck,” is making her way to the Grand Strand May 8–11, 2025—and she’s not just here for the photo ops. Towering over six stories tall, Mama Duck is splashing down as a larger-than-life ambassador for National Water Safety Month and the YMCA of Coastal Carolina’s Splash Safe Challenge.

This exciting event is a community collaboration between the YMCA of Coastal Carolina, the City of Myrtle Beach, and Visit Myrtle Beach, with generous sponsorship from Black’s Tire & Auto Service and health partnership support from Tidelands Health.

Why Mama Duck? Why Now?
Each May, communities across the country shine a spotlight on water safety. With Myrtle Beach’s strong connection to the ocean, pools, and waterways, raising awareness about water safety is more important than ever. Mama Duck’s towering presence is meant to do just that—spark curiosity, draw crowds, and most importantly, educate both locals and visitors about staying safe in and around water.

📸 Don’t forget your camera! Mama Duck is incredibly photogenic and perfect for family-friendly selfies.

When & Where to Catch Mama Duck
📍 Location:
Burroughs & Chapin Pavilion Park
812 N Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach (Duck located at 8th Ave. N. & Ocean Blvd.)

📅 Dates: May 8–11, 2025

🕙 Daily Viewing Hours:
May 8–10: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
May 11: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

🎥 Daily Media Opportunity:
Duck inflation video ops: 9–10 a.m.

🎤 Opening Announcement & Media Availability:
May 8, 11 a.m. – Noon

🛟 Splash Safe Day – May 10: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Meet Mama Duck and enjoy interactive water safety demonstrations led by the YMCA of Coastal Carolina.

Dive Into Water Safety: Learn, Share, Act
The Splash Safe campaign offers essential water safety resources, videos, and tips at visitmyrtlebeach.com/splashsafe. Whether you’re a parent, a new swimmer, or just love being near the water, knowledge saves lives.

💦 Want to help?
Donate to provide free swim lessons: givebutter.com/splashsafe
Sign up for free swim lessons – Scholarships available! Call your local YMCA branch for more info.

About Mama Duck
Mama Duck has captured hearts across North America with her cheerful, oversized charm. She’s more than just a photo magnet—she’s a symbol of joy, community, and safety. Learn more about her journey and story at thebigduck.us.

Shoutout to Our Splash Safe Heroes
A big wave of thanks to our Swim Safety Scholarship Honor Roll—your support helps keep our community safer:

  • The Chapin Foundation
  • Melinda Grafton & Mike Lestingi
  • Tory & Jon Mackey
  • Anonymous
  • Rhett Sansbury
  • Burr & Forman
  • HTC
  • First Presbyterian Church of Myrtle Beach
  • Mary Chase & Carmen’s Duck Stand

🐥 Come Make a Splash with Mama Duck – May 8–11!

Bring your family, your camera, and your curiosity. Let’s make waves in water safety together.

Thank you to our sponsors:

Healthy Kids Day

Posted on Updated on by Jillian Westerfield

Join Us for Healthy Kids Day at the YMCA of Coastal Carolina!

Mark your calendars and gather the whole family—Healthy Kids Day is coming on Saturday, April 26, 2025, and you don’t want to miss it!

Claire Chapin Epps YMCA
📍 Location: 5000 Claire Chapin Epps Dr, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📌 Where: Outside on the YMCA soccer field

Tidelands Health Pawleys Family YMCA
📍 Location: 12965 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM- 1:00 PM

Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA
📍 Location: 529 Browns Ferry Rd, Georgetown, SC 29440
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

What is Healthy Kids Day?

Healthy Kids Day® is the Y’s national initiative to promote health and wellness among kids and families. For more than 30 years, YMCA communities across the country have hosted this free event with a common goal: to inspire families to stay active in both body and mind during the summer months—and all year long.

This nationally recognized event is more than just fun and games. It’s a chance to build healthy habits, connect with local resources, and enjoy time together as a family.

Why You Should Come

Healthy Kids Day isn’t just about having fun (though there will be plenty of that!). It’s about building a foundation for lifelong health and wellness. Whether it’s discovering a new hobby, learning about nutrition, or simply jumping in a bounce house—every activity supports the YMCA’s mission to strengthen community through healthy spirit, mind, and body.

This event is FREE and open to everyone, so bring your neighbors, friends, and family. We can’t wait to see you there!

What’s Happening at Healthy Kids Day?

You can look forward to a jam-packed day full of engaging activities, exciting vendors, live demonstrations, and interactive booths from organizations all across our community. Here’s just a glimpse of what you can expect:

Claire Chapin Epps YMCA

🎪 Community Vendors & Activities: 

  • Bounce Barn
  • Ripley’s Aquarium
  • Big Air Trampoline Park
  • Edventure
  • Myrtle Beach Fire Department
  • Myrtle Beach K9 Unit
  • Stars & Strikes
  • Safe Kids
  • United Way
  • Thrive Pediatric Therapy
  • Children’s Recovery Group
  • Bubble Up Party
  • Backyard Games Delivered
  • Freedom Readers
  • Chapin Art Museum


  • Carolina Trust Federal Credit Union
  • BJ’s Wholesale
  • Tidelands Health
  • Andrea – Food Label Detective
  • Beast Mode Fitness
  • YMCA Booth
  • Chapin Library Mobile
  • Live Music

🧘‍♀️ Don’t Miss:

  • Family Yoga Sessions at 9:30 AM & 10:00 AM
  • Foam Party Finale at 12:00 PM & 12:30 PM!

🍦 Food Trucks On Site:

  • Kona Ice Truck
  • Bean Dreaming Coffee Truck
  • Mister Softee Ice Cream Truck
    Food available for purchase throughout the event.

🎁 Giveaways & Specials:

  • Free event giveaways
  • FOTC drawstring bags
  • WonderWorks discounted ticket packages

Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA 

🎪 Community Vendors & Activities: 

  • Georgetown High School Football Team
  • Georgetown County Police
  • Agape Double Dutch
  • Bounce Barn
  • Children’s Recovery Center
  • Black River Cypress Reserve
  • Humane Society
  • Historic Kaminski House
  •  Georgetown County Library
  • St. Frances Animal Center
  • Freedom Readers
  • Live Music

🧘‍♀️ Don’t Miss: 

  • Mud Run from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM 
  • Foam Party

🍦 Food Trucks On Site: 

  • Tree Treats 
  • Mr. Softee Ice Cream Truck
  • Kidigo Farms
  • Kona Ice
    Food available for purchase throughout the event.

🎁 Giveaways & Specials: 

  • Free event giveaways 
  • FOTC drawstrings bags

Tidelands Health Pawleys Island Family YMCA

  • 🧘‍♂️ Yoga, Zumba & Sticks Family FIT & FUN
  • 💪 Outdoor Family Bootcamp
  • 🏃‍♂️ Indoor Challenge Course
  • 🎨 Chalk Walk Adventure
  • 🌊 Safety Around Water Dryland Training Zone
  • 🫧Stay & Play Places
  • 🖍️ Imagination & Creation Stations
  • 🎲 QUICKPLAY Board Game Battle

Community Partners

  • 🩺Tidelands Health
  • 🎧🎶DJ BRETT GASH
  • 🏰 Bounce House by Bounce Barn
  • 🥋 Kick-it with Karate World
  • 📚 Book Give-away from Freedom Readers
  • 🥤 Smoothie Samples from Pawleys Nutrition.
  • 🍌❄️Mister Softee Ice Cream Truck

A Huge Thank You to Our Sponsors:

We are so grateful to the amazing organizations helping make this event possible

Follow us on Facebook for updates, sneak peeks, and more event details.
Let’s celebrate our kids and kick off a happy, healthy summer—together!

A New Year of Hope: Building a Brighter Tomorrow Together

Posted on by Bill Golden

Embracing Renewal, Strength, and Community in 2025

As we turn the page on the calendar and welcome a new year, it’s natural to reflect on where we’ve been and look ahead with anticipation. January is a month of beginnings, a time when many of us set goals, make plans, and dream big. It’s also the perfect time to embrace the Christian principle of Hope. 

Desmond Tutu once said, “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness.” Hope is a powerful force, reminding us that brighter days are ahead and encouraging us to take steps toward a better future. At the YMCA of Coastal Carolinas, we believe that hope is the spark that ignites transformation—in individuals, families, and communities. 

As the Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” This verse serves as a reminder that hope is not only a gift but also a reflection of our trust and faith in God’s plan. 

Why Hope Matters in January 

January is a season of possibilities. After the celebrations of the holidays, we find ourselves standing at the threshold of a new chapter. It’s a time to reflect on past challenges and successes and to set our sights on growth and renewal. Hope is what gives us the courage to face the unknown and the drive to pursue our dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem. 

Hope also reminds us that we’re not alone. It connects us to a greater purpose and to one another, fostering a sense of community and shared determination.  

What Does Hope Look Like? 

Hope is more than wishful thinking; it’s a mindset and a practice. It’s about believing in the possibility of change and taking actionable steps to make it happen. Here are a few examples of how hope can manifest: 

– A parent signing up for a fitness program to improve their health and set an example for their children. 

– A young person pursuing educational opportunities with the support of mentors and resources. 

– A community coming together to support neighbors in need through volunteerism and service. 

At the YMCA, we see hope every day in the faces of those who walk through our doors. Whether it’s someone starting their fitness journey, a family finding connection through our programs, or a teen discovering their potential in a leadership initiative, hope is alive and thriving. 

Hope in Action at the YMCA 

At the YMCA of Coastal Carolina, we are committed to being a beacon of hope in our community. Through our programs and initiatives, we strive to create opportunities for growth, connection, and transformation. Here are a few ways we’re bringing hope to life: 

  • Youth Development Programs: Empowering young people to achieve their full potential through mentorship, leadership training, and educational support. 
  • Wellness Initiatives: Helping individuals and families take control of their health and well-being through fitness classes, nutritional guidance, and mental health resources. 
  • Community Outreach: Providing resources, services, and support to underserved populations, ensuring that everyone has a chance to thrive. 

How You Can Cultivate Hope 

As we embrace hope this January, here are some practical ways you can nurture this principle in your own life: 

1. Set Realistic Goals: Start small and build momentum by setting achievable goals that align with your values and aspirations. 

2. Get Involved: Join a YMCA program, volunteer in your community, or find other ways to connect with others who share your vision for a better future. 

3. Practice Gratitude: Take time each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for. Gratitude can strengthen your sense of hope and optimism. 

4. Encourage Others: Share words of encouragement and support with friends, family, and colleagues. Sometimes, a kind word is all it takes to inspire hope in someone else. 

A Call to Action 

As we journey through this new year, let’s make a commitment to carry hope with us—not just for ourselves, but for our community. At the YMCA of Coastal Carolinas, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow. 

What are you hopeful for this year? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your hopes with us on social media or in person at your local YMCA. Let’s inspire one another to keep striving for a better future. 

This is the first installment in our monthly series, driven by our dedicated staff, highlighting a Christian principle each month. These values are chosen to inspire personal growth, guide our service, and deepen our commitment to making a positive impact in our community. 

Hope starts here in 2025.

Posted on Updated on by Hatton Gravely

What do you hope for in 2025?

As we embrace hope this January, here are some practical ways you can nurture hope in your own life: 

1. Set Realistic Goals: Start small and build momentum by setting achievable goals that align with your values and aspirations. 

2. Get Involved: Join a YMCA program, volunteer in your community, or find other ways to connect with others who share your vision for a better future. 

3. Practice Gratitude: Take time each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for. Gratitude can strengthen your sense of hope and optimism. 

4. Encourage Others: Share words of encouragement and support with friends, family, and colleagues. Sometimes, a kind word is all it takes to inspire hope in someone else. 

As we journey through this new year, let’s make a commitment to carry hope with us—not just for ourselves, but for our community. At the YMCA of Coastal Carolina, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow. 

Join us today!

Get 1% everyday with us in 2025. Hope starts here at the YMCA!

BECOME A MEMBER

One response to “Hope starts here in 2025.”

  1. Bill Golden Avatar
    Bill Golden

    This is awesome!!

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2025 Community Health Fairs with Tidelands Health

Posted on Updated on by Hatton Gravely

Stay Healthy in 2025: Health Screenings & Services at YMCA Locations in Myrtle Beach, Georgetown, and Pawleys Island

Taking charge of your health is the first step toward a happier, healthier future, and we’re making it easier for you to do just that. Join us at one of three convenient YMCA locations for a series of free health screenings and services that could make a real difference in your well-being. Whether you’re looking to learn more about your bone density, manage your blood pressure, or get advice from physical therapists, we’ve got you covered!

All in the community are welcome to attend!

What You Can Expect

Our health event offers a wide variety of screenings and services, including:

  • Bone Density Screening 
  • Hands-On CPR
  • Physical Therapy
  • Stroke Awareness Information
  • Blood Pressure Screenings
  • Weight Loss Surgery Program Info 
  • Laboratory Services 

On-Site Lab Tests

For those interested in lab tests, we’re offering several key screenings at affordable rates. Please bring cash or check to pay for these services:

  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel $20.00 (fasting required)  – Evaluates overall health by checking kidney and liver function, electrolyte levels, and blood sugar.
  • Lipid Panel  $10.00  (fasting required) – Measures cholesterol and triglycerides to assess heart health.
  • PSA Index  $15.00 – Screens for prostate health in men.
  • HGB/A1C  $21.00 – Monitors blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, crucial for diabetes management.
  • TSH  $15.00 – Assesses thyroid function to detect hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
  • Complete Blood Count $20.00 – Examines overall health by measuring red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets

These lab tests are a great way to gain deeper insight into your health, from cholesterol and blood sugar levels to thyroid function and more.

Questions about the lab tests? Call Tidelands Health at (843)520-8598 with questions.

When & Where

We’re offering these health services on the following dates and locations:

  • February 26, 2025: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
    Claire Chapin Epps Family YMCA
    5000 Claire Chapin Epps Dr., Myrtle Beach, SC
  • January 29, 2025: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
    Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA
    529 Browns Ferry Rd., Georgetown, SC
  • February 6, 2025: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
    Tidelands Health Pawleys Family YMCA
    12965 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC

This is the perfect opportunity to check on your health, ask questions, and get the professional advice you need to stay at your best. Whether you’re looking for specific screenings or just want to learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we’ve got experts available to guide you.

Make Your Health a Priority

Taking care of your body is the best gift you can give yourself and your loved ones. Start your new year with the knowledge and tools you need to stay healthy and live your best life. We look forward to seeing you at one of these convenient YMCA locations!

Don’t forget to bring cash or check for lab tests, and come ready to take charge of your health!

Story of Hope & Possibility: Maribeth, a Livestrong Participant

Posted on Updated on by Hatton Gravely

Maribeth Lamuraglia is known for her trademark positivity and hospitality.

A longtime manager at Dagwood’s Deli and the South Carolina Hospitality Employee of the Year in 2018, Lamuraglia is used to taking care of others’ needs in the restaurant setting. That generous nature extends to her friends, loved ones and community members, serving as a go-to when someone needs help, support or inspiration. Read the full article on MyCarolinaLife: ‘I can do this’ | Program helps cancer survivors regain strength in mind and body

About Livestrong at the Y

LIVESTRONG is a free 12-week exercise program designed specifically for cancer survivors and individuals currently undergoing treatment.

Classes are held twice a week, and enrollment is now open! 

This program focuses on building strength, improving cardiovascular health, and enhancing mobility through a variety of exercises. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to foster camaraderie and connect with a supportive community of individuals on similar journeys. 

Let’s move forward together!

Register online today or email Tyler at [email protected] for more information.

Learn more: Livestrong Program Information

Healthy Habits Month 12: Be Proud

Posted on Updated on by Hatton Gravely

You did it! This year, you’ve followed along with our Healthy Habits challenge to be 1% better, every day.  

Think back to January of 2024 and the lifestyle you lead. While still focusing on your healthy habits, use this month to reflect on how the 2024 Healthy Habits challenge changed your lifestyle. Answer the following questions:

  1. At the beginning of 2024, what was your daily routine? What is it now? 
  1. How has your mood and motivation changed over the course of 2024? 
  1. What was your goal when starting this challenge? Have you reached that goal? 
  1. Which habits were the easiest to build, and which were harder? 
  1. Rate yourself! On a scale of 1-10 (10 being perfect), how consistent were you? 
  1. What would you like to see out of yourself next year? 

Next, it’s time to set new goals. Using your reflection from 2024, set yourself 5 new achievable goals for 2025!  

For more information on Self Reward, check this out! 

https://ymca360.org/categories/8582/videos/8589

Healthy Habits, Month 11: Build Holiday Habits 

Posted on by Hatton Gravely

The holidays are right around the corner! This time of year brings joy, cheer and … sweets. Keeping yourself in a consistent routine of healthy habits can be hard when you are surrounded by holiday parties and holiday foods. That’s why this month, focus on building holiday habits.  

Holiday habits are healthy ways to enjoy the season, while still improving 1% better every day! First, enjoy the sweets! Avoiding sweets altogether will most likely backlash into giving up and binge snacking. However, if you can allow yourself to eat a few sweets without overindulging, you can stay on the right track! 

Next, stay moving! With shorter and colder days, it can be hard to stay motivated. You only have two months left! Make the most out of 2024 and keep pushing. Whether you go to the gym, workout from home, or take a brisk walk outside, you are keeping up with your healthy habits! 

Lastly, keep using all the healthy habits you have learned this year. Building up these habits each month should give you a great routine to fall back on, even amongst the holiday chaos. Don’t throw away all your hard work! Keep logging your habits every day to stay on track. 

For more information on relapse prevention, check out this link to YMCA 360! 

https://ymca360.org/categories/8582/videos/8586

Myrtle Beach Power thru Parkinson’s Class Receives Donation

Posted on by Hatton Gravely

Lanette Barnes, Parkinson’s advocate and Power thru Parkinson’s participant, held a fundraiser for Parkinson’s this past weekend. On October 7th, Lanette presented the Claire Chapin Epps Family YMCA a donation to support the class.

Tricia Harrison, Center Executive for the Claire Chapin Epps Family YMCA shares, “Lanette is an inspiration to us all. She changes lives every day with her positive spirit. We are so grateful she is a part of our Y Family, and for this incredible gift to support our Power thru Parkinson’s work.”

Learn more about the YMCA of Coastal Carolina Power thru Parkinson’s classes

Healthy Habits, Month 10: Know What’s on Your Plate 

Posted on Updated on by Hatton Gravely

Have you ever read a nutrition label or could not understand one? Nutrition labels are a very important way to understand what you are eating. They contain the serving information, calories, and nutrients. Learning how to read a nutrition label can help you make healthier decisions in the grocery store. For more information, check out this link on how to read a nutrition label. 

https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-facts-label/how-understand-and-use-nutrition-facts-label

Once you understand what’s in your food, you know what goes into your body. Using nutrition labels, you can prioritize balanced meals. A balanced meal contains fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins. Fruits and vegetables should take up half of your plate, whereas grains and proteins should take up the other half.  

Fruits: Apples, oranges, bananas, etc. 

Vegetables: Broccoli, peppers, carrots, etc. 

Whole Grains: Oatmeal, whole grain pasta, whole wheat bread, etc. 

Proteins: Chicken, fish, nuts, etc. 

Choosing balanced meals while reading the nutrition labels is great to know what is on your plate. The last component to eating a healthy diet is scheduling your meals in advance. Have you ever been to the grocery store without a list and ended up overspending and buying too much?  Thats what happens when you don’t have a plan. Before your week starts, schedule out what meals you will make each day. This ensures that you know when you need to cook and what you need to buy. Setting aside food for each day is a great way to reduce snacking or ordering takeout.  

Each day, make sure you track the 3 factors of knowing what’s on your plate. Check off when you schedule your meal, read the labels, and eat a balanced meal. Focusing on your diet this month will help you be 1% better every day! 

To learn more about food quality, check out this link to YMCA 360! 

YMCA360

VIDEO

VID

WATCH YMCA360 NUTRITION VIDEO
Tidelands health

July 4th Hours 

8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Updated Hours for January 23 - 25, 2025

 

Due to the winter snow and potential weather conditions overnight, in order to keep our members and staff safe, all YMCA of Coastal Carolina center locations will close remained closed on Thursday and open limited hours on Friday. Saturday will resume normal operating hours.

  • Thursday, January 23, 2025: All YMCA of Coastal Carolina centers will remain closed. (This includes 24 hour access at the Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA.) 
  • Friday, January 24, 2025: Centers will be open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.  Please note services may be limited during this time.
  • Saturday, January 25, 2025: All YMCA of Coastal Carolina centers will resume normal operating hours.

Please stay safe and check our website for updates.Thank you for understanding as we weather the winter storm. We hope you and your family stay safe and warm!

 

Updated Hours Today

We hope you and your family stayed safe during the storm. We will resume normal operations at all three YMCA of Coastal Carolina center locations at 11 a.m. today. 

  • Thursday, August 31: All three center locations will reopen at 11 a.m.
  • Friday, September 1: All three center locations will be open during normal hours.
 24-hour access will be unavailable to Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA during the times the center is closed but will resume as normal tonight.