September Member of the Month - Sandy Colvin

1. Why is it important for you to be an active member at the YMCA? 

Being an active member of the YMCA has afforded me many opportunities to meet and make close relationships with other members who, like myself, value the opportunities to work on self-improvement and have a fun time doing it!

2. What is your first memory of the YMCA?

My first memory of the YMCA was July 7, 2021. I had rang the bell at the Marietta Cancer Center in Belpre two weeks prior, celebrating the last chemotherapy in my fight against Ovarian Cancer. A friend and I decided to try the Strong Class at the Y. My hope was to work my way back to some resemblance of what my life was before cancer. I came to the YMCA bald, weak and very self conscious. I soon realized no one cared I was a bald lady! No one judged me! I did what I could and found acceptance and friendships from the instructors and the other members. I had found my place of comfort and help at the YMCA. It took awhile, but I grew stronger and more confident thanks to the staff and fellow members.

3. How has the YMCA impacted your life? 

The YMCA has challenged me to keep working. Show up and do the work on the good days and the not so good days. Keep trying! The instructors and members won’t judge, they are there to help and that’s what they are best at, helping.

4. What should this community know about the YMCA of Parkersburg?

The YMCA has something for everyone! Doesn’t matter if you are young or like me, just young at heart, the YMCA has a place for you!

5. How have you witnessed the YMCA Mission in action?

I was in remission for nearly two years, free from cancer. I stuck with the Strong Class and even tried the Step Class from time to time. I loved it! I found out this past May my cancer had returned. I had to stop coming to the YMCA because of treatment until the past couple of weeks. I’m trying once again to reclaim my strength and get my life back. I’m again in the Strong Class. The instructors take the time to make sure I’m doing okay, they help keep me going by showing me how to adapt exercises to my ability until I get strength back in my muscles and the air back into my lungs. No judgment, only kindness and Christian love through cards, prayers and uplifting words of encouragement from fellow members and staff.

6. What is something you are proud of from the last year? This can be personal, professional, academic etc.

I’m proud to say the people I have met through the YMCA have ended up being some of my most cherished friendships! God put me in the right place when I walked through the doors of the YMCA. I am very blessed.