For one Sarnia-Lambton mom, the YMCA has become so much more than a fitness centre; it’s been a place of growth, confidence, and community.
At 36, she describes herself with a smile as a “geriatric pregnant woman,” currently off work (at the time of our conversation) and focused on caring for her two energetic boys, aged two and four. Like many parents, she first joined the Y for her children: for swim lessons, play spaces, and the chance to let them burn off some energy in a safe, welcoming environment.
But what began as a way to keep her boys active became something much more personal.
“At first, I came here for the boys — swimming and lessons — but eventually, I started coming for myself. I needed a break.”
That simple step of taking time for herself turned into a life-changing journey.
“I’d drop the kids off for Child Minding and just sit in the women’s 18+ room for a mental health break,” she explained. “Then one day, I thought ‘maybe I don’t need this kind of break every day’. I started working out, little by little. And then I started enjoying it more.”
Since then, she’s lost over 130 pounds.
“It just kind of snowballed,” she said. “I came for a break, started feeling better, started eating better. I’m just happier: with myself, with my mental health, and as a mom.”
Even now, during her pregnancy, she continues to use the Y as a place of connection and care. “Sometimes I just come to wash my hair without kids climbing on me,” she laughed. “It’s those little moments that make such a difference.”
But beyond physical wellness, she’s found something even more lasting: community.
“I’ve made some mom-friends here,” she said. “We hang out outside of the Y now. They’re coming to my son’s birthday party. It’s just a nice little community.”
Her story is one of transformation through trust, encouragement, and balance — a reflection of what it means to be greater together.
The Y isn’t just a place to work out. It’s a space to breathe, to connect, and to rediscover yourself, one small step, one swim, one conversation at a time.