News and Stories

Physical activity is something I have always enjoyed and prioritized throughout my life, so I was devastated when I became disabled a year ago. I was in debilitating pain from my sciatica, fibromyalgia, and arthritis in my knees and lower back. I tried so hard to continue working, but in the end, I had to go on disability as the pain was just too much to continue with my job.

Staying healthy in mind, body and spirit during COVID-19 has its challenges, especially for those who have likely taken on added roles with their kids at home. And for the kids themselves, whose friends, routines and daily activities have been out of sight for what seems to be far too long.

Before our world changed, our long-time Y volunteer and member, Alyson, was teaching at least one fitness class a week out of the H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre near her home. Once COVID-19 became an increased risk in our community, she didn’t know what she would do without this regular part of her life, and without the social interactions she came to know and love.

Maria is a fitness instructor, personal trainer and holistic nutritionist at H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre who is currently at home, practicing social distancing, in a larger effort to help our community fight this global pandemic.

In a time when nothing seems normal, seeing a familiar face and participating in a familiar activity can bring a sense of normalcy back to our lives when we need it most.

Just over a year ago, I suffered a terrible injury that left me in constant pain and unable to work my physical job at the young age of 28. I build houses and in an unfortunate accident fell off scaffolding on to concrete in such a way that damaged my back and hip.