GREATER JOLIET AREA YMCA

At the Y, we know that maintaining a healthy lifestyle looks different for everyone. That’s why we’re committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where every member can pursue their own unique health and wellness journey. For member Suzanne St. Germain, who joined the Village of Shorewood YMCA last month, the Y has been a welcoming place for rehabilitation following an extensive series of medical procedures.

“I’m a double leg amputee following diabetes complications. I had double bypass heart surgery two years ago, was on dialysis for end stage kidney failure, and I went through weight loss surgery,” Suzanne said. “It was very hard coming into the doors of a gym again, with a lot of nervousness because of being an amputee and how people would understand it. But friends from church come here, and said my husband and I should come with. What I learned is you might be nervous coming through those doors, but there’s a whole list of opportunities that open up.” 

Suzanne, who has lost more than 150 pounds since beginning her journey, describes participating in the Y’s Chair Body Works group fitness class as a true milestone moment.

“I cried after that class because it was very emotional for me. Thinking about where my highest weight was, I would not have been able to do something like that back then,” she said.

Suzanne has continued to expand on her Y experience by participating in group fitness classes like Pound, as well as taking time for cardio exercise in the wellness center. But beyond amenities and programs, Suzanne noted the most important factor in feeling supported at the Y is the atmosphere. 

“We’ve gone to other gyms before and there’s just more community here. Our church builds upon community and to see another organization that builds community as well is a huge factor in being a member,” Suzanne said. “I’ve had conversations with the ladies who work at the front desk. Their kindness towards people is fantastic. They don’t see me as someone who comes in a wheelchair. They see me as a regular person.”

Suzanne is looking forward to the role the Y will continue to play in supporting her health and wellness journey.

“My next steps will be to work with somebody in personal training. I still have about 10 more pounds left to lose and then it’s about maintaining that healthy lifestyle. When I went on my last visit to the weight loss doctor, they mentioned that I have to try and build up muscle. Eventually I want to be able to walk without extra support or walking sticks,” she said. “I just want people to know that, yes you can have all these medical things, but you can also turn them around too. It can be done, you just have to have the willpower to be able to do it.”

We are so grateful to have Suzanne as a member of our Y community and we wish her all the best on her health and wellness journey.