FOREVERWELL APRIL 2026
FOREVERWELL® is a program for the active ager - our goal is to bring new events, extracurriculars, and clubs just for you!
Social Activities:
Member Spotlight
Potluck at Fercho
Finding Strength: One Woman’s Journey Back to Movement - Joan
April 21 11:15 - 11:45 am Dawson Lounge - FY
When Joan speaks about her life, it’s clear she doesn’t do anything halfway, whether it was
Bring a dish to share and enjoy conversation with friends! A Team Member from Bonanzaville will be providing an overview on the many historic buildings located on the property, including how specific structures became part of the site. They will also share on notable locations such as the Press Shop and Cass Clay Creamery.
involved with the YMCA nature programs. “We had woods surrounding us,” she said. An
Book Club April 14
The breakthrough came through aquatic physical therapy. “It changed everything,” she said.
We will discuss “An Irish Country Doctor” by Patrick Taylor. All are welcome, even if you haven't finished the book. May’s Books is “The Life We Bury” by Allen Eskens
consistency paid off. In the past several months, she’s seen significant improvement. “I’m
building a decade-long career, raising a family, or fighting her way back to health. Her connection to the YMCA began not through structured exercise, but through community. Living near a lakeside Camp affiliated with our YMCA, Camp Cormorant, her family became deeply agreement was made to run camp trails through their woods. The kids would hike & explore. Their family relationship to the YMCA grew, as Joan served on the childcare advisory board to support childcare programming. Her children were enriched through the lives of YMCA teachers. “The teachers were absolutely amazing!” While Joan wasn’t formally introduced to group fitness classes back then, she stayed active in her own way, especially enjoying racquetball in her younger years. An Unexpected Health Battle Then roughly twenty years ago, everything changed. Joan was experiencing a rare diagnosis that led to muscle and tendon tears. Her muscles were failing, and specialists could not figure out why. Years of uncertainty, trial-and-error treatments, eventually, a likely cause emerged. “Except there was no cure,” she explained. For years, basic exercise became risky. Traditional gym workouts left her in pain. At one point, she was told to stop exercising altogether. “I could have given up,” she admitted. “But I had too much I wanted to do.” Water making the Difference Working in a specialized underwater treadmill system, she was able to rebuild strength. “You’re like in a giant aquarium,” she laughed. “But it worked.” Progress wasn’t linear, but over time, stronger, and not experiencing muscle tears.” For the first time she can exercise without fear. Returning to Dry Land—and Community Now, she’s transitioning back to land-based exercise, slowly and carefully, with guidance from her physical therapist. Joan has found a new joy: chair yoga. She’s also considering exploring other group classes and loves connecting with the FOREVERWELL Social Clubs. “The people are just as important as the exercise,” she said. “I love being around others again.” Strength Beyond the Physical Just months ago, she relied on a walker. Today, she’s regaining independence, working on balance. Her motivation is clear: family. With children and grandchildren nearby, she fills her days with visits and activities. “They’re my retirement,” she said. “That’s what this is all for.” Advice for Others When asked what advice she would give, her answer is simple but powerful: “Don’t stop. Keep
April 14
May 12
An Irish Country Doctor by Patrick Taylor
The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens
going until you find what works for you.” Her journey is a testament to persistence, adaptability, and the importance of community, both in healing and in life. “I’m just so glad I didn’t give up.”
YMCA of the Northern Sky | ymcanorthernsky.org/foreverwell