Y Stories
We are always seeking member stories that help us show how the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA makes a positive impact on individuals and families in our community.
If you would like to share your YMCA experience please complete this:
ADDY
The physicians and specialists said it could never be done! Swimming? Jumping? Focusing? Trusting? Impossible! Despite the forecast, five year old Addy decided to prove everyone wrong!
Adalyn (Addy) with a diagnosis of PTSD, Sensory Processing Disorder and Reactive Attachment Disorder had quite the challenges that stemmed from trauma in her early childhood years before foster care. With lack of physical strength, trust, emotional control, and cognitive function, the ability to swim independently was only a distant dream.
That was only until her adopted family heard of the one on one Adaptive Swimming Program at the YMCA. With a glimmer of hope, prayer and a positive attitude they signed Addy up and a year later the progress is startling!
What started with terror and fear of the water, slowly became enjoyment and fun being in the water. With the help and direction of the YMCA's Aquatics Director, Gertrude Suhajda, confidence was built, strength was gained, and trust was earned.
Addy can swim independently (with Gertrude close by), jump into the deep water, swim a full lap unassisted and can use her words to communicate her needs. The family plans to keep Addy swimming for years to come as water has proven to be beneficial for her physical, emotional and mental health.
Way to go Addy! Your YMCA family is so proud of you!
NOLYNN
Nolynn, is one of the many children that benefit through the YMCA's Financial Assistance program. Nolynn, has been able to participate in Summer Day Camp and Y programs. "I love Summer Day Camp! I made 26 new friends, played fun games and was able to go swimming in a warm pool," said Nolynn! The Y has allowed her to be active, build relationships and have the best summer ever! Nolynn will continue her involvement through Y BASE, a before and after school enrichment program, that offers a safe and fun environment.
CYNDY
Cyndy joined the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA in November, 2015, to fulfill her lifelong dream of learning to swim. When Cyndy joined in November she wasn’t able to swim a single lap. She knew her goal was going to be challenging; however, with her goal-oriented personality and competitive background, she was ready to tackle her dream.
“The Y was so welcoming and friendly when I joined! I couldn’t have been more pleased and excited to start my journey,” Cyndy said. Cyndy’s success blossomed from the inspiration she received from the YMCA staff. She is thankful for her early morning YMCA supporters: Diana Winger, YMCA Maintenance, Karrie Gibson, Business Manager, and Dorothy Robin, YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor. “Dorothy is a huge asset to the YMCA and taught me so much. I am now training in the pool 4-5 times per week for over 60 minutes each time. Karrie was so welcoming and supportive when I was new to the Y, and Diana has been my cheerleader giving me the motivation I needed to stick with it,” Cyndy said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support. I am farther along than I could have ever imagined!”
As Cyndy looks to the future, her new goal is to join the Master’s Swim Team. We have no doubt that she will accomplish that goal! The Y staff looks forward to supporting her every lap of the way.
JIM
A life-long member of the YMCA, Jim, is active in our community as well as in our facility! For many years, he has commuted between Chicago, IL and Fontana, WI. In Chicago, he is a Managing Director at Wells Fargo and when he escapes to Wisconsin, he is also a volunteer for the Fontana Fire Department. For almost ten years, Jim has been on active duty with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary where he performs search and rescues, vessel inspections and supports other Coast Guard missions. To keep up with his busy lifestyle, Jim keeps in shape by routinely visiting the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA. He finds a healthy, relaxing workout in our lap pool and another “family” that is ready to greet him on each arrival! When asked about the value of the YMCA, Jim explains he can easily sum that up in three ways:
1) what the YMCA stands for
2) the people
3) the facility.
With roots that date back to 1883, the YMCA has a mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Community is our cause and we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Jim finds the people that surround him to be very enjoyable and the facility to provide great value. With his aqua experience and knowledge of the area Jim admits that “…the YMCA has the best pool in the area!”
We are thrilled that Jim is part of our Geneva Lakes Family YMCA. It is our goal to continue to provide him and other members and guests positive experiences at the Y! We encourage others to explore all the YMCA has to offer!
KERRI
On February 12, 2014, Kerri's life changed forever when she suffered from a brain aneurysm. Her diagnosis was grim. Miraculously, she survived a 14 hour surgery that saved her life. After surgery, Kerri dealt with depression, anxiety, weight gain and vision loss in her left eye. She knew her road to recovery was going to be long, but was inspired through her faith, family and doctors to have hope. Kerri has been able to tackle each new day and its challenges with the help of the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA.
Kerri joined the YMCA in early 2015, through the income based Financial Assistance program. She said, "As a single mother, I am so thankful for the Financial Assistance program. Without it, I would not be able to afford a membership for myself and 14 year old son, Kaleb." Kerri and Kaleb spend a lot of their time at the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA. Kerri continues to work on her strength and coordination, while Kaleb enjoys playing basketball after school. For Kerri, the Y is more than a place to pursue physical rehabilitation; it's where she finds her inspiration. With the support of the YMCA, Kerri has lost more than 25 pounds, overcome her depression and has made new friendships along the way. "The YMCA has offered hope and encouragement. I was not expected to survive but I did and I’m here today," said Kerri. Kerri continues to live each day to her fullest.