Category: Personal Y Stories

A Circle of Support

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

For the past 15 years, the YMCA has been woven into Kristin Bencivenga’s life—supporting her through motherhood, career changes, and most recently, a cancer diagnosis.

When Kristin and her family moved to Oconomowoc with their 18-month-old daughter, Mia, one of their first steps was joining the Y. What started with swim lessons and group fitness classes quickly became something much more. “It was our safe place. Our happy place,” she said. “And really, our lifeline.” Inside those walls, they found lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.

Mia later attended Sunshine School, and when Kristin’s sons, Asher and Griffin, came along, the Y was the obvious choice for childcare. As Kristin transitioned back to work, she had peace of mind knowing her boys were surrounded by familiar, caring faces.

Over the years, all three children played nearly every sport at the Y, attended camps, and now, as teens, enjoy lifting weights and shooting hoops. Kristin’s husband, Jim, coached countless teams, and Kristin’s mom—who moved in a few years ago—found connection through group fitness classes.

In March 2024, Kristin was on the planning committee for the Y’s Annual Campaign Auction & Dinner. While getting ready for the event, she found a lump in her breast. A few weeks later, she was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer.

And once again, the Y became her lifeline.

Bruce Osborn called often to check in and pray. Instructors and staff brought meals, headscarves, and unwavering encouragement. “I don’t know how people do cancer without a village—and the Y is very much a part of that village for me,” Kristin said.

During treatment, she missed coming to the Y—but the moment she was able, she returned. “I needed a pick-me-up. To see familiar faces, to be reminded that I could still do it—and that I was still me outside of cancer.”

Now finished with chemo, surgery, and radiation, Kristin is focused on healing. Her next goal is to rebuild strength with the help of a trainer at the Y—surrounded by the people who’ve walked with her through it all.

From her early days as a new mom to the hardest days of her life, Kristin says: “We are forever grateful for everything the Y has done for our family and for this entire community. It’s not just where you go to work out. It’s where you go to belong.”

"We are forever grateful for everything the Y has done for our family and for this entire community. It’s not just where you go to work out. It’s where you go to belong.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

Share Your Story

Finding Relief and Joy in Retirement

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

After Mike and his wife Gail retired last year, he was looking for something to do with his new found spare time. As they looked for ways to stay active and engaged, they stopped by the Y for a tour. Impressed by all that was offered, they decided to join.

For Mike, the goal was clear: he wanted to build a consistent exercise routine that he hoped would help with the back pain that had been getting progressively worse over the last decade. He turned to the EGYM circuit and now uses it three times a week, hoping to add in more days in the future.

Before starting at the Y, Mike’s back problems made activities—especially golf—difficult. “I had to take aspirin before, during, and after a round just to get through it,” he recalls. “Even then, it was never painless—just barely tolerable. All I could manage was golfing about once every other week.”

But after just a few weeks on the EGYM circuit, things began to change. “I only needed two aspirins before a round. After a month or so, I was golfing twice a week—pain-free,” Mike says. Yard work, once another painful chore, is now pain free too.

“It’s a new experience, going through life without constantly worrying about when I’ll next trigger back pain,” he shares. “Thanks to the Y, I’m finally experiencing retirement as it should be!”

“Thanks to the Y, I’m finally experiencing retirement as it should be!”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

Share Your Story

Determined and Thriving, Together

Posted on by Kate Haslar

Nancy first joined the Y in September 2022, encouraged by a friend to give it a try. She was used to getting her exercise through daily activities, so she was unsure if group exercise would be a good fit. “Exercise has always been important to me,” Nancy said, “but it used to come from my job and daily walks with my dog. I wasn’t sure group classes were my style.”

Determined to find what worked, Nancy explored classes focused on strength and flexibility—eventually landing on the right combination of BodyBalance, Core, BodyPump, and MX4. “After two and a half years of hard work, I feel great,” said Nancy, “I’m 71, but I can do it!” 

Nancy’s commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. “She shows up every Wednesday morning at MX4 ready to work,” said instructor Jamie Meissner. “Nancy is the epitome of ‘age is just a number.’ She can do a full minute of decline push-ups and tackles every workout with determination. She’s setting herself up to stay strong, independent, and injury-free.” Nancy’s bone density has increased slightly, mainly due to increased exercise. This is a huge accomplishment, since osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures, as well as pain.

Nancy has also embraced the unexpected sense of community at the Y. “Even though I didn’t come here for the social aspect, I found it anyway. We get to know each other, and that makes us accountable. We know if we don’t show up, we are missed,” she said. “Because of the Y, I feel healthier and more confident. I can do this—because we all do it together.”

“Nancy is the epitome of ‘age is just a number.’ She can do a full minute of decline push-ups and tackles every workout with determination. She’s setting herself up to stay strong, independent, and injury-free.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

Share Your Story

Journey of Joy and Belonging

Posted on by Kate Haslar

When Miles was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 4, his parents, Anthony and Maria, weren’t sure what the future would hold. But with support from their community and encouragement from staff at Summit Elementary, they discovered the YMCA’s Special Programs—and a new sense of hope.

Once 9 years old, Miles began Adaptive Aquatics, and swim lessons quickly became a weekly highlight. He looked forward to swimming with his instructor and seeing the familiar, friendly faces of the staff. Their warmth and encouragement inspired the family to explore more.

Next came Miracle League Baseball, a meaningful experience for the whole family. His younger siblings, grandparents, great-grandparents, and school friends gather to cheer him on. With his own walk-up song and fun facts read aloud, it’s a moment of pure joy. Katie Becker, Special Programs Coordinator, shared, “Miles has had a special place in my heart ever since his first season of Miracle League—his walk-up song was ‘God Save the Queen.’ I’ll never forget it.”

In spring 2024, Miles added Special Olympics Track to his routine. He loves throwing javelin, is improving in long jump, and thrives on the cheers at the end of each practice. Last year, he even advanced to the State Competition in Whitewater for mini-javelin.

“We wanted to channel his joy and energy into something that gave him purpose and a sense of belonging,” his mom shared. The programs have done just that.

One memorable moment came during track practice. When Miles got very close to a coach’s face—something he’s still learning about when it comes to personal space—the coach gently cupped his face and said, “Miles, you are beautiful.” It was a small gesture, but one his mom says she’ll never forget—a reflection of how much the staff genuinely love what they do.

Special Programs have become part of the rhythm of family life. His younger brother and sister also take part in other Y activities. “We love that all our children can cheer on and support each other!” Maria said. “Our participation in the Y has taught our children to embrace differences, never give up, and that everyone has a place in this world.”

His parents add, “Because of the Y, we found more than just activities; we found community and family. Miles is embraced for who he is, encouraged to meet his highest potential, and our whole family gets to grow, connect, and belong.”

“Because of the Y, we found more than just activities; we found community and family. Miles is embraced for who he is, encouraged to meet his highest potential, and our whole family gets to grow, connect, and belong.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

Share Your Story

A Memorable and Rewarding Season

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

Y members John and Janet have been connected to the Y through their children and grandchildren, but this spring brought a new adventure: coaching their grandson Vinnie’s baseball team. When the Y shared that the team couldn’t move forward without a coach, Janet volunteered—and John quickly followed. Their willingness to step up inspired others to do the same, and soon a group of parents and grandparents came together to create a memorable and rewarding season. 

“Seeing kids who had never played before get their first hit and run to a base—their smiles and joy were priceless,” John recalled. They loved watching Vinnie grow throughout the season, not just in skill but in confidence and friendship. 

Each week, John introduced a new character trait—like respect, resilience, and responsibility—for the players to reflect on, reminding them to be aggressive on the field but always kind. “Seeing the camaraderie amongst the kids—how they encouraged each other from the dugout even when they were losing—was so heartwarming,” Janet shared. 

As older adults, John and Janet said the support of other parents was especially appreciated. From help at practices to game-day setup, it truly became a team effort. 

“We started coaching for Vinnie,” they said, “but seeing everyone pitch in gave us hope—for our team, and for the future of these kids. The Y has such a good program— it’s not too pushy, all the kids get at least some playing time, and the atmosphere is really positive.”  

“We started coaching for Vinnie,” they said, “but seeing everyone pitch in gave us hope—for our team, and for the future of these kids. The Y has such a good program— it’s not too pushy, all the kids get at least some playing time, and the atmosphere is really positive.”  

Thank you to our Grand Slam Sponsors

Thank you to our Pinch Hitter Sponsors

Kiltie

Training for the Appalachian Trail

Posted on by Kate Haslar

Y Members Steve and Kathy Hatch have loved the outdoors their whole life. Since Kathy was a child, she dreamed of hiking the Appalachian Trail (AT), which runs 2,190 miles long and spans 14 states from Georgia to Maine. After becoming empty nesters, they decided it was time to pursue backpacking in earnest. In 2019, they began their AT journey in Springer, Georgia, backpacking their first 110 miles. They were hooked but realized they were not as prepared as they would like to be.

As a couple in their 60s, they recognized the need to be in top physical shape. They turned to the Y and worked with personal trainer, Rich, to create a program focusing on balance, strength, and stretching. In the winter, they can often be found walking the stairwell at the Y with their backpacks on, gradually increasing the weight each week. When the Scuppernong Trail is too icy, they take to the treadmills to keep training. Their preparation involves months of getting in the best shape, learning blister prevention, and preparing mentally for the challenges of the trail.

Steve shared, “Mentally, we focus on positive things, what’s coming up ahead, or how much God has blessed us to take in all of the beauty.” Since they section-hike, after about 100 miles, they get a break, but challenges still arise.

One memorable experience on the trail occurred at Grayson Highlands State Park. Around 2 a.m., they woke to the sound of galloping horses— a herd had gotten trapped inside the fenced area where they were camping. Despite the chaos, they fell back asleep, grateful for the chance to see the wild ponies. The next morning, they witnessed a newborn horse struggling to stand, but it surprised them by getting up and nursing.

Through it all, the YMCA has been a constant source of support, providing not only the fitness resources they needed to prepare but also a community. So far, Steve and Kathy have completed 600 miles of the Appalachian Trail. This spring, they hope to finish the state of Virginia, and later this year, they plan to pick up the trail in New Jersey and hike another 300 miles northbound. They shared how blessed they feel, saying, “So many staff and members love the outdoors like we do—they’ve shared their experiences, offered encouragement, and given us valuable advice.”

"So many staff and members love the outdoors like we do—they’ve shared their experiences, offered encouragement, and given us valuable advice."

We’d love to hear your Y story!

Share Your Story

Finding Support in Special Programs

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

Nathan’s mom, Pattie, first learned about the YMCA’s special programs through their IRIS caseworker, Matt Lovell. IRIS—short for Include, Respect, I Self-Direct—is a Wisconsin Medicaid program that empowers adults with disabilities to choose the services and supports that best fit their needs.

At the time, Pattie had been preparing to build a program of her own for Nathan and his graduating classmates—disappointed by the limited opportunities available for young adults with disabilities after age 21. But after discovering what the Y had to offer, she realized she didn’t have to.

Nathan is now part of Service Without Boundaries—a community service-based day program that supports adults with disabilities through learning activities, social development, physical activity, and volunteer work both at the Y and out in the community.

What stood out most to Pattie was the staff. “Every staff member has such a strong desire to support our adults. I love that staff are willing to make modifications to suit Nathan, including incorporating the same strategies we use at home,” she said. “I couldn’t ask for a more personal approach!”

Since joining the program, Nathan has made noticeable improvements in his behavior—especially around eating. For most of his life, he had been a rigid, fussy eater with an extremely limited diet. School staff tried for years to encourage new foods, but the best result was an occasional “micro” bite.

But now, something has shifted. While still just small nibbles, Nathan is trying more new foods—and doing it without any prompting. He even brings his plate to his mom and proudly reports, “I tried it!”

That progress has even been noticed outside the program. Nathan and his family recently started attending a new church, and it’s been a joy to see him willingly try the food offered—something that wouldn’t have been possible before

For Pattie, the Y has been more than a resource—it’s been a life-changing support system their family “It’s everything I could’ve wanted for Nathan… and more!”

“It’s everything I could’ve wanted for Nathan... and more!”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

Share Your Story

A Journey of Organ Donation Strengthened by Community

Posted on by Kate Haslar

Longtime YMCA member Christy Russell was lying in bed one night watching the news when she saw a heartwarming story about a young man in need of a kidney transplant. The story touched her in a way she hadn’t felt before, and she felt called by God to help. She reached out to UW Hospital, began the screening process, and committed to the journey of becoming a living donor.

Over the next 6–9 months, Christy attended appointments, completed blood work, and made lifestyle modifications to ensure she was in the best possible health

“The YMCA helped me get in shape before surgery and I was back in group classes just four weeks after,” Christy shares. “The instructors knew what I was going through and kept an eye on me. I even got a handmade card from several people in class—it just shows how much people at the Y care.”

On February 28, 2023, Christy donated her kidney as part of a paired kidney exchange. While she wasn’t a direct match for the young man she originally hoped to help, her donation set off a life-saving chain reaction—her kidney was sent to a recipient in Arizona, and in turn, the young man she saw on the news moved to the top of the list and received his transplant just three months later. In total, Christy’s decision saved two lives.

Now, she’s using her experience to spread awareness about the power of living donation. April is National Donate Life Month, and she wants more people to know that organ donation isn’t just something that happens after passing—it’s something that can change lives today.

Through it all, Christy has found strength in her community at the Y. “Exercise helps your whole body—it’s even good for your organs!” she adds. “The Y has been such an important part of my journey—not just in staying active, but in surrounding myself with supportive, caring people. Donating an organ was an emotional experience, and at times, I felt overwhelmed. But coming back to the Y, seeing familiar faces, and moving my body helped me heal mentally as much as physically. I couldn’t have done this without the Y.”

"Donating an organ was an emotional experience, and at times, I felt overwhelmed. But coming back to the Y, seeing familiar faces, and moving my body helped me heal mentally as much as physically. I couldn’t have done this without the Y.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

Share Your Story

A Knockout Success for Active Older Adults

Posted on by Kate Haslar

When Group Ex Coordinator, Leighann Moll, introduced the Guard Up boxing program to the Y in 2017, it quickly gained popularity, expanding across multiple time slots with additional coaches stepping in to meet demand. In 2024, Leighann and instructor Sarah Sandkuhler saw an opportunity to adapt the program for the Active Older Adults (AOA) community. Inspired by the buzz around The Golden Bachelor, they launched Golden Glove Guard Up, a version of the small-group training program tailored for active older adults.

Among the first participants were Colleen and Mark Sasso, who were eager to take on a new fitness challenge. The smaller class size and full-body workout immediately appealed to them, and they quickly became dedicated participants, encouraging others to give it a try.

Now in their second year of the program, Colleen and Mark say, “We are much stronger- physically, mentally, and socially. Since the class is small, we’ve bonded with our group. We encourage each other, check in, and even meet outside of the Y!”

Golden Glove Guard Up is designed to challenge both body and mind. Participants work on balance, coordination, and cognitive exercises as they punch a heavy bag in sequences that require focus and precision. Mini breaks allow members to regroup, catch their breath, and encourage one another—creating a supportive atmosphere.

For Colleen and Mark, working out together has made the Y feel even more like home. “It’s fun to find an activity we can do as a couple,” Colleen says. “We’ve made some great friends since our retirement, and the Y feels like our community. It’s a great feeling when people know us and say hello. Our workouts help us maintain strength to remain independent. Plus, our group is always there to support one another—we even send cards when someone is going through a tough time.”

With Golden Glove Guard Up now offered twice a week, the program continues to grow, proving that it’s never too late to try something new. For older adults looking to stay active, engaged, and independent, Colleen and Mark are proof that finding the right workout—and the right community—can make all the difference.

"We are much stronger- physically, mentally, and socially. Since the class is small, we’ve bonded with our group. We encourage each other, check in, and even meet outside of the Y!"

We’d love to hear your Y story!

Share Your Story

Healthy Habits Pay Off

Posted on by Kate Haslar

When Audrey first joined the Y in December 2023, she was committed to working out—but despite her efforts, she didn’t lose a single pound. Then, during a class with Angie recently, she heard about the Healthy Habits coaching program.

“Angie talked to me about coaching, and I thought, ‘Why not?’” she recalls. Instead of focusing solely on exercise, they shifted their attention to other areas of health, like sleep and stress. The results were immediate—she lost 16 pounds.

Audrey has an autoimmune disease—Sarcoidosis—and was once told she would be on steroids for life. She gained 80 pounds and was miserable. “Eventually, I weaned myself off the steroids, but the weight never really came off. Now I’m finally starting to see progress.”

Her coach, Angie, emphasizes that health is more than just working out. “Exercise is powerful, but true health comes from reflecting on mind, body, and spirit. Knowing WHY and HOW to make changes impacts every aspect of life and that’s the most exciting part of being a coach.”

Having a coach has helped Audrey stay on track and focused on what truly matters. “I exercise regularly now, which is huge—I always used to find an excuse not to,” she admits. “But I feel so much better when I come here.”

One of the biggest changes has been her sleep habits. After years of working night shifts, she never fully adjusted to a healthy sleep schedule. Now, she makes it a priority to go to bed earlier. No phone, no TV—just better habits.

Angie says this kind of progress is what makes the Healthy Habits program unique. “When you’re stressed, not sleeping well, and aren’t seeing results, it’s easy to lose hope. This program offers personalized goals, daily actions, and accountability through daily emails and feedback from your coach. Healthy habits become a priority even on the hard days”

For anyone considering the Healthy Habits program, Audrey’s advice is “Give it a try. The support is wonderful, and the ideas are so helpful. All the instructors are so knowledgeable and encouraging.”

Ready for a change? Join the Healthy Habits Challenge. Register Here

“When you're stressed, not sleeping well, and aren’t seeing results, it’s easy to lose hope. This program offers personalized goals, daily actions, and accountability through daily emails and feedback from your coach."

We’d love to hear your Y story!

Share Your Story