Y Stories

We are incredibly fortunate to be members of the West Roxbury/Roslindale YMCA. Our story is simple. My husband and I are longtime members who happen to have nine children, one of whom has autism. Estiven is now 13 years old and over the years it has been an incredible struggle to convince him to participate in any activities at all, much less in a recreational facility that is rife with strangers, unfamiliar equipment and constant activity.

When I was a freshman at the New England Institute of Art, I began to feel ill with headaches, nausea, vomiting and blurred vision. My mom immediately called to make an appointment with an eye specialist.During the exam, I had an MRI and passed out. I woke up in the hospital and was told that I had a brain tumor and that I might not survive the night. The next day I had a nine hour-surgery.

"This year, in March, I joined the West Roxbury YMCA for the Seniorcise program – a regular weekly program of movement, strength-building and cardiovascular exercise. This program has greatly increased my stamina, energy and pain-free joint range to levels that I have not experienced since my youth."

“During my last appointment my chiropractor commented on how my condition had improved.   My strength and mobility had increased, I was more in alignment and my legs were now the same length.  He said I was in the best condition he has seen me in over two years of treatment.  He said, ‘Whatever you are doing at the YMCA, continue doing it!’”

"So many great experiences including basketball games and great trips, all of which have created fun times and priceless memories!  We are always looking forward to the next day at the YMCA!"

"We all have memories of special people that have touched us in one way or another. I am no exception. Having taught at Small Fry for 20 years I’ve seen hundreds of children come and go, all special in their own way. Every so often there is someone that I still think about, and Jason is one of them."