“12.21.2016: On this day, at the age of 21, I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. This meant a lifetime sentence of constantly monitoring my sugar intake and giving myself at least four injections of insulin a day. If I wasn’t careful, my future could include limb amputations, vision loss, and even death.

I was encouraged to incorporate some physical activity into my schedule to keep my sugar levels in check. In doing so, I was able to not only improve my physical well-being, but also to alleviate the mental burden of being recently diagnosed with a chronic disease.

Now, one year after my diagnosis, I realize that the YMCA was more than just a way for me to shape my physique. Rather, it was a place for me to conquer my diabetes. It was a place that empowered me to take the disease into my own hands.”

Thanks to your help, youth at the YMCA are not only improving their physical skills, but also gaining the self-confidence, motivation, and knowledge they need to make physical activity part of their daily lives.

Other inspiring stories…

Karmin, member

Tous grandissent au YMCA- Entraînement (In French only)

The Giguère-Choquette family, Health and Fitness

Kiara, TeenZone

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