I’m a 64-year-old woman, diagnosed with Primary Chronic Progressive Multiple Sclerosis 30 years ago. I walk with a cane, wear a leg brace and drive a car with a left foot accelerator. I’ve been coming to Challenge Center for approximately one year.
What initiated my coming here was the death of a lifelong friend. I’d watched her health deteriorate as she became more and more sedentary. I began to look at myself, and realized I, also, was becoming less and less active and, consequently, my body was becoming weaker. I knew that if I didn’t do something for myself, that it would only get worse.
How much I could help myself, I didn’t know, but I knew I had to try. So, I came to the Challenge Center. And, a challenge it was. Skilled staff were helpful, but didn’t do for me what I could do for myself. There were days I had to push myself to go, but as time went on, I noticed I was slowly getting stronger, remembered routines and had less challenge getting on or off the exercise equipment. After I’d finish my exercises, I’d walk outside, and the day would look much brighter.
I increased by sessions from two to three times a week. The gym became a habit that affected every part of my life. Endorphins that the exercise initiated helped me get through some very difficult times in my personal life. I became stronger, not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally.

The Challenge Center presented me with a challenge that changed my life. I will be eternally grateful for the opportunity it’s given me to improve the quality of my life. The interactions with other disabled people, and the challenges they face and the progress they make, has further encouraged me. The sharing makes me realize I’m not alone. To me the Challenge Center is more than a gym for the disabled. It’s a center that provides hope and stability in an often prejudicial world. There’s acceptance, honest communication and encouragement for all. It’s a challenge, meeting the challenge for many. Thank you, Challenge Center.