I became a member of the Greater Grand Rapids Y about 25 years ago. Several years ago, I was involved in a multi-vehicle pile (due to black ice) on US131. It was a moment in which my life was dramatically altered.

Following this accident, I had difficulty walking. So, after a stint of Physical Therapy, I headed back to the Y, with my wheelchair loaded in the trunk of my car. The Y staff were very supportive. I would phone the front desk and let them know I was coming. A staff member would meet me in the parking lot, get my chair out of the trunk and push me in. I was coming several days a week to rehab in the pool.  After a year of pool therapy, I no longer needed the wheelchair to travel the distance from parking lot to front door. I could now walk that distance. And I have been walking into the Y several times a week since then.

Every one of the staff members whom I met when I was using the wheelchair were friendly, gracious and kind. I will be forever grateful to everyone at the Y who helped me to succeed in my recovery.

I usually go to the downtown Y to swim. I really enjoy the marvelous diversity of membership that shows up here regularly. It’s like a mini UN. Here, I am on a first name basis with 6 or 7 Eritrean Women. I’ve enjoyed hearing about their beautiful but troubled country. And about their children. I’ve spoken with women from many parts of Latin America. I’ve met Y members from Mexico, Guatemala, Paraguay. There are Bosnians. Palestinians. And many more countries. There’s a really amazing African Rock and Roll Church on Sundays which meets in a large room near the entrance to the Y.

The world here in my hometown is so interesting when I pay attention. We are rich in our diversity. The world’s a big place, full of so many interesting people and places.

And for many here at the Y, it is a safe space, to come workout, relax and chat with friends.