Dear Editor:

We go to the YMCA to strengthen our muscles, take classes to become more flexible and participate in activities that make us healthy and feel good. What had a great impact for me and my husband, Robert, was the love shown by the water aerobics class. At 92 years old, Robert has attended aerobics classes for many years. After a fall he was hospitalized and could not resume classes until his strength returned. Lolly, the water aerobics instructor, created a song for Robert and then made a video of the class singing the song and dancing the chicken dance in the pool followed by well wishes from each participant.

“We Love You Robert, oh yes we do, we love you Robert, and we'll be true, when you're not near us, we feel blue, oh Robert we love you.”

When Robert saw the video he smiled warmly and his spirits were lifted by the outpouring of love. The greatest impact for us was the love and support shown by the water aerobics group and the support and concern from the staff.

Therefore I encourage everyone to donate to the YMCA and support this precious facility and the people involved in running it and may it continue to have a greater impact on our community.

Alina Blakesley 

Boothbay Harbor