Congratulations to Ann Larsen, our July Fitness Patron of the Month!

When I was asked to be featured as a Fitness Patron of the Month, at first my answer was “I don't think so!" But, if you know Suzi, CVPRD Fitness and Wellness Coordinator, in her own way she challenged me, much the same as she and other fitness instructors challenge us in their fitness classes.

Honestly, I was not excited to write about myself but decided to give it some thought in hopes that it might give inspiration to someone who’s not sure about joining a class or committing to working out. Staying strong is so important as we age, but the best part is making new friends, challenging yourself to be all you can be at whatever age you are, and did I mention making new friends and feeling part of a bigger world? And of course, feeling proud of yourself every time you complete a class, every time you choose to go to class rather than staying home for a second cup of coffee.

In 2020, I retired when Covid closed the medical facility where I was employed. I was 73 and not sure what retirement meant to me. There was a certain comfort in knowing what my week looked like before retirement. Two months into retirement I had a bad fall on a mossy sidewalk and did some damage to my right shoulder and my right hip. After the fall I thought I had healed quickly, until one day I woke up unable to walk without a great deal of pain. I was finally able to see a Dr in person, rather than a remote Dr appointment. I was eventually diagnosed with bilateral acute sciatica. I spent several months using a walker to get from one room to another and many PT appointments. I am also am a cardiac patient with a history of two heart attacks, so Covid was a big concern for my doctors and my family, so l stayed close to home getting weaker and weaker.

l decided that as soon as I was able l was going to join SilverSneakers classes at the Recreation center and be totally done with using a walker. I made up my mind to sign up even though I did not know a soul there. Thankfully, the first people I met were so welcoming that the fear of being a new person eased and I felt good about being there and doing something important for myself, both physically and mentally.

That was 3.5 years ago. I decided after that first day of trying a class, that I was not retired and still had a job to do. That job was to keep my body and mind as healthy as possible and to make attending SilverSneakers classes the same priority as going to my job years ago. Staying healthy IS my new job. I do it for myself, my children, and grandchildren. I do it so that when that sciatica rears its ugly head, I am able to help myself by working to strengthen my hips, legs, and core. And because I have made some wonderful friends, going to class each day is something I look forward to.

Today as I watch new members start classes, I am happy that they also make new friends and keep coming back. We might be considered the “old folks” generation, but folks, we are the generation that jumped on that fitness bandwagon and for most of us, we are not looking back!