Page 7 - YMCA of the Suncoast Annual Report 2022

INSPIRING IMPACT
When he first started coming to the Citrus Memorial Health Foundation YMCA for the Pedaling for Parkinson’s program Joseph Beaulieu couldn’t even sit on the bike for the entire class. The program uses our indoor, stationary cycling bicycles to allow participants to pedal at a high speed for small bursts of time. Research shows that doing this three times per week can forestall the progression of the disease and alleviate symptoms.
Although he struggled at first, Joe was so dedicated that he
came 3 days a week and soon was able to stay on the bike for the entire class. Joe says that some days were better than others but eventually, he began to get his leg speed up and after a few weeks he hit the 80 - 90 rpm level; the speed shown to get optimal results from the program. Joe was so excited when this happened that he yelled out to the class in celebration! Joe has been able to keep his speed up and he has noticed a big improvement in his endurance. He is not getting winded as much, can walk his dog farther and is thrilled that he just feels better doing regular, everyday activities. “The trainers are the best ever and physically it [the P4P classes] makes a big difference in reducing my pain”.
2022 IMPACT SNAPSHOT
92,332
children, teens, adults, senior citizens, cancer survivors, chronically ill community members, at-risk youth, infants & toddlers across four counties were supported & guided to achieve greater health and well-being for their spirit, mind & body at the Y.
22,772
group exercise classes supported and guided community members to achieve greater health and wellness.
1,077
people improved their quality of life through our community-integrated health programs like arthritis management, cancer survivor wellness & diabetes prevention.
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