Finding Strength, Community, and Renewal at the Y

For Jill Boyd, the YMCA is more than a place to work out—it’s a lifeline for health, healing, and connection. It’s where she found movement that works for her, encouragement from others, and a community that feels like home.

A Perfect Fit from the Start

Jill and her husband, David, have been part of the Y family since the facility first opened. When they moved to the area in 2014, Jill was eager to find a pool—knowing that water exercise was key to keeping her body moving.

“The pool has always been the kind of exercise that my body responds to best,” she shared. “I’m not someone who naturally enjoys exercise, so finding something I actually liked doing was a big deal.”

Her love for water aerobics began years ago in St. Louis. When she heard a YMCA was coming to town, she was ready. “From the very beginning, we knew we were going to join,” she said. “I wanted to be in the pool, and David wanted the exercise equipment—it was a perfect fit.”

Overcoming Challenges, One Stroke at a Time

Jill’s journey with the Y has been deeply personal, especially as she’s navigated recovery from back surgery in 2021 and a knee replacement in 2024. The Y’s pool became her saving grace, allowing her to rebuild strength and mobility at her own pace.

“The partnership between the YMCA and the hospital is incredible,” Jill said. “After finishing physical therapy, I was encouraged to keep using the equipment and stay on the bike for my range of motion. Now, I go to the pool three days a week and use the bike three days a week—something I never thought I’d be doing before.”

A Community That Supports Each Other

Beyond physical benefits, it’s the people at the Y that make the biggest impact. From welcoming staff to friendly faces in the pool, Jill has found a supportive community that lifts each other up.

“I’m a relational person,” she said. “I love learning people’s names, chatting with the front desk team, and sharing moments of connection. Even on days when I want some quiet time in the pool, I know I’m in a place where I belong.”

Jill has also experienced firsthand encouragement from fellow members.

“When I first started using the bike after surgery, I struggled to get that first rotation,” she recalled. “Julie, who had gone through the same surgery, just laughed and said, ‘I know it hurts, but you’re going to get there.’ And she was right.”

Even YMCA therapists check in on her progress. “Hunter always says, ‘You’re looking good, Jill!’ and Craig, my therapist, makes sure I’m set up correctly on the bike. It’s a place where people genuinely care.”

Why Jill Recommends the YMCA

Without hesitation, Jill encourages others to join the Y—not just for fitness, but for the sense of belonging it provides.

“The benefits are overwhelming—physically, emotionally, and spiritually,” she said. “The Y is a place where everyone is encouraged to be their best, whatever that looks like for them.”

She and David even make an annual donation to ensure that others have the opportunity to experience the Y—especially those who may need financial assistance.

For Jill, the YMCA isn’t just a gym—it’s a community gem.

“Every time I’m in the pool, I give thanks to God for this place,” she said. “We are so fortunate to have a resource like this in our community, and I am so grateful for the difference it has made in my life.”