West Union

Member Since September 2008

My Story
Kathy:
On November 29, 2007, the day before I had planned to retire from the West Union Library, an aneurysm burst in my head. Luckily I wasn't alone when it happened. Only 1 in 4 victims make it to the hospital. Of that number only 1 in 4 survive. So I am very fortunate to be here to tell this story.
While in surgery to repair the aneurysm I had a stroke. My left side was gone.
After 2 months in the hospital and 1 month of physical therapy I was extremely weak and had very little stamina. I can walk but I have to wear a brace on my left leg. My left arm doesn't function at all. In September, 2008, a friend asked me if I would like to go to Curves with her. I was interested.
My husband, John, who was my primary caregiver and very protective of me, thought we could check out Curves. After a visit together he gave his stamp of approval. I knew I needed to exercise and I like the variety of machines at Curves that work all my muscles. I could do the circuit if I had help which Wanda, the owner, gave to me. The friendliness and helpfulness at West Union is wonderful!
It wasn't too long after starting Curves that I found my strength coming back. I could now roll over in bed without help. What a joy! Next I noticed my balance improving. Then I was able to dress myself! The increased strength and flexibility makes a big difference. After 9 months at Curves I am able to do more of the machines with "Lefty" and do them longer. The other members are so supportive, kind and patient when I don't move as quickly as they do.
In the meantime, we were going to switch houses with our son and his wife because of the farming operation. Both houses are out of town and would be remodeled over the winter. Ours would be made handicap accessible. John and I traveled the southern states together during this time and came back in time to move into our "new" home in the spring. We were in our new home for about a month when John was seriously injured in a farming accident. Sadly, eight days later he passed away.

Wanda:
After John's death, we were all concerned about Kathy and what kind of living arrangements she would need. She came back to Curves within a week with the help of friends. She soon found a neighbor who stops in every morning so she can continue to live in her own home and get a ride to Curves.
Kathy's story is not about weight loss. It is about a woman having the physical strength, flexibility, courage and determination to continue to live in her own home and do it with her limitations and without the constant care that John used to give her so lovingly. It about a woman with a strong faith in God who never once questioned "Why me?" It is also about the inspiration she gives the rest of us. When another member told her that, she responded "You would be a survivor too." So when tough times come and you think "I can't do it" think of Kathy who shows us "I CAN do it!".