84-Year-Old Brookline Resident Vows to Stay Fit in 2018

BROOKLINE, Mass. – In 2010, a mild stroke briefly landed Roye Wates of Brookline in the hospital. The Boston University professor had been fairly active through college and graduate school, playing a variety of recreational sports and serving as a swimming instructor and program director at summer camps. But years later, she began living a more sedentary lifestyle, which concerned her. Following her retirement, at the age of 81 on the advice of her primary care physician she sought a personal trainer and joined the Parkway Community YMCA.

“At first, I recoiled at the idea of performing mindless repetitive stunts in a smelly gym,” says Wates. “But then I met Janice O’Connor, with her sparking personality and obvious expertise in fitness, nutrition, and the interworking of mind, body, and spirit. Very quickly and to my utter surprise, I fell in love with exercising, finding it challenging and inspiring. I leave the gym every time feeling absolutely terrific.”

For the past two years, Wates, now 84 years old, has worked with O’Connor, Director of Health and Wellness at the Parkway Community YMCA and a YMCA personal trainer, exercising three times a week for two hours each time. Through strength training, weights, cardio, and avoiding some of her favorite treats, such as cheese and crackers before dinner, she has lost 15 pounds and her strength and balance have improved dramatically.

“Then, in November, I tripped on a mat at the entrance of a restaurant, nearly repeating the fall just one year ago that fractured my elbow. But this time it was different,” says Wates. “About two feet from the floor, I was able to plant my right foot quite firmly and restore my balance. Bystanders were amazed that I didn’t fall. But, I knew the reason: the careful, challenging training I receive from Janice O’Connor at the Parkway Community YMCA.”

O’Connor credits Wates’s dedication and positive attitude with her health and fitness transformation. She is an inspiration to members of all ages at the Parkway Community YMCA.

“Having the support of Janice and the Y has been life-changing,” says Wates. “I am in the best shape of my life, my balance has significantly improved, and friends say I look terrific. As a result, I’ve been able to recruit some friends to join me on my health and fitness journey!”

The YMCA of Greater Boston is the state’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities. Every day the Y works with thousands of men, women, and children to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. For more than 165 years, the Y has been developing skills and emotional well-being through education and training, welcoming and connecting diverse populations, preventing chronic disease and building healthier communities through collaborations and policymakers. For more information about the YMCA of Greater Boston and its health, fitness and education programs, visit: http://ymcaboston.org.