She Helps People Keep Their Spirits Up & Stay Fit: Norwalk Hero

NORWALK, CT — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented times. Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes.

This submission comes from Patty Kondub, who nominated Joan Evon:

<b>Where the nominee lives:</b>
Norwalk

<b>Where the person who nominated the hero lives: </b>
Westport

<b>Name of the nominee:</b>
Joan Evon

<b>Name of the person who nominated the hero: </b>
Patty Kondub

<b>Is the nominee considered an “essential worker”?:</b>
No

<b>What does the nominee do for work?:</b>
Aqua Fitness Instructor at Westport/Weston YMCA

<b>Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?</b>
Joan sprung into action and created the “AquaFitters at the Y” Facebook group on March 13, the first day our YMCA was closed. She has created an online community that includes “dryland training” classes she teaches on Facebook LIVE 4/week, and chair aerobics that I’m honored to teach 5/week for our pool participants and friends. Joan has helped many people navigate the technology to join the group through phones calls, emails and texts. She has encouraged members to post informational or fun videos, to participate in our Zoom book discussions, and to stay connected. She’s inspiring!! She is bringing the pool experience (physical, mental and emotional) to people without anyone getting wet! Her dog, Dolly, is a hit in the workouts!

<b>What’s one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?: </b>
Joan is genuine in her passion to help our AquaFitters, and without her, we would not have this fantastic forum to stay together while physically apart.

>> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.

All photos included in this post are owned by identified third parties who have given Patch the right to use explicitly for the Patch Local Heroes series.