Member Story of Hope & Possibility: Maria

Maria is a member of the Claire Chapin Epps Family YMCA. When she discovered frightening news about her health, she made the YMCA a priority in her life. By taking classes and working with our trainers, Maria built up her strength. She says that her personal trainer Haywood pushed her “not only physically but mentally.” With all the YMCA there to support her, she lost 50 lbs!  

Maria’s Story

She shares:

“In February of this year, I went to see my primary care physician to read my labs. He told me my glucose level was elevated. I immediately left his office and went straight to the YMCA to start my fitness and wellness journey. I signed up for classes like strength and stability, Zumba and Aqua Fit. I even took classes to learn how to swim. I started personal training with Haywood, who showed me how to safely use each machine and explained which areas of the body they targeted. He pushed me not only physically but mentally. The entire YMCA staff has been so encouraging, especially Trish who continuously motivates me each time I see her.  To compliment my wellness journey, I took advice from my daughter who is a nutritionist. I started by eating more plant centered meals, reduced my sugar intake and stopped eating highly processed foods. I learned that not all carbs are created equally and get a good source of energy from complex carbs. In six months, I have lost a total of 50 lbs. by moving my body five days a week and sticking to my nutrition plan. My goal is to be mobile, healthy, and feel good for the longevity of my life.”