“In August of 2016, I was diagnosed with an extremely rare auto-immune disease called dermatomyositis, which has symptoms similar to lupus, muscular dystrophy and cancer all in one disease. There is no cure and very few treatments, and statistics say I have 5-7 years to live. I knew I had a fight on my hands, and I am now a warrior. I was bed-bound and in a wheelchair. I needed help caring for myself, could no longer drive, and, I lost my job. From my bed, I had physical and occupational therapy and eventually was able to walk using crutches.”
It was then that Rebecca and her children came to the YMCA for help.
“What does the Y mean to me? HOPE. The Y gave me hope.
I was able to receive financial assistance for a membership for myself and my children (I am a single mom).
Without the Y’s help, I would not be doing as well as I am today. I have to continue to exercise and swim to battle the damage my body is doing to itself. The Y’s financial assistance program has allowed my children to attend summer camp for the first time, which has helped them to heal from the devastation this disease has caused our family.
This journey with my illness may have altered my life, but with the help from the Y and the kindness of the staff, each day is a new chance of hope for a future with my family.”