News and Stories

Alec's Story

This past school year, I had a hard time keeping my grades up and was failing a few classes. My confidence was lacking, and I struggled to cope with everything happening in my life. Unfortunately, I had experienced trauma that was causing me anxiety.

A woman with glasses, short white hair, and blue workout clothes is sitting on a laid back cycle machine in a gym and smiling at the camera.

Mavis' Story

Twenty-five years ago, I was happily working full-time as a nurse when I was suddenly diagnosed with Lupus, an autoimmune disease. The pain had become so intense that I couldn’t work and had to go on medical disability. 

A woman with dark hair pulled back in workout clothes is holding two medals up and smiling at the camera. There is a gymnasium in the background.

Kethra's Story

I'm 44 and in the best shape of my life thanks to the opportunities I’ve had, and the community support I have received. It's all about mindset and what you want to achieve. I wasn’t going to let my age stop me from reaching my goals, living my healthiest self, and being the best role model I could be for my daughter.

A young man with short dark hair, jeans, sun glasses and a black t shirt is sitting cross legged looking out at a beach. The photo is taken behind him and he is looking out at the water, with a bridge full of cars crossing the lake in the distance.

Isaac's Story

After being fired from my first job, I enrolled in a free Y employment program in Kelowna to try and get back on my feet. At the time, I was easily overwhelmed, a bit of a mess, and didn’t really care what I was doing with my life. My stress was building up internally and making me feel crazy.

A woman with short blonde hair, wearing a black dress and pearls is smiling at the camera. There is a forest behind her and the sun is shining.

Barb's Story

After undergoing a major accident, numerous surgeries, and extensive rehab, I have earned a new name- Barb 2.0 as I am essentially a rebuild!

A man with glasses and a grey goatee is standing in front of the Kelowna Family Y and smiling at the camera. He’s wearing a white shirt that says ‘I love my Y’.

Bob's Story

Since 2004, I have experienced 3 heart attacks, triple bypass surgery, bladder cancer, ventricular tachycardia, and just recently an ischemic stroke. My wife says that I’m on my 7th life and I have both the Kelowna General Hospital (KGH) and the YMCA of Southern Interior BC to thank for making it to lucky number 7. 