Bonding Through Fitness
A stroke in 2014, coronary bypass in 2015, and subsequent depression drastically altered life for Roy Ethridge and his wife, Franci. “I thought life as I knew it was over,” he admits. But his unfortunate health issues led the couple to the Marcus JCC of Atlanta, which has been life-changing – and life-saving – for both. Never healthier, stronger, or happier, the two have found the Marcus JCC’s fitness center and community to be the cure for what had been ailing them.
Having passed the Marcus JCC for years as they traveled to their Methodist church, Roy stopped in to tour the fitness center. His doctor-prescribed physical therapy rehabilitation program had lapsed, but he knew he needed to stay active to advance his recovery. Seeing the various ages and capabilities of those working out, Roy says he immediately felt, “this is where I want to be.”
Because Roy was comfortable, accepted, and even describes how he felt he was among family, he exercised for one hour, three times weekly with Marcus JCC personal trainers. “Everyone was so courteous and supportive,” Roy recalls. “It’s been a friendship-building universe. I’ve experienced fellowship beyond what I ever imagined.”
Franci, who also battled depression, initially shied away because encounters at other gyms were overwhelming and intimidating. However, Roy’s coaxing and the noticeable improvements in his health persuaded her to join six months later. “There was a marked change in his demeanor,” she reveals. “He didn’t talk about the end of his life anymore. He was more focused and much happier. It helped me think that I could get better too.” They have since increased their gym time to two hours per session, five days per week and cannot get enough. “Minutes after we get home, we’re already talking about going back the next day,” Franci laughs.
Their endurance, strength, weight, health, stress levels, and happiness are all exponentially improved, and they have each discontinued medications for pain management and depression because of their positive outcomes. Physically, mentally, and socially, life has never been better. “The fog has lifted,” Franci shares, “I’ve come back to enjoying life minute-to-minute. It revitalized something we thought was in the past.”
The Marcus JCC also opened the door to a world of life-enhancing experiences. Franci and Roy are thrilled to see the preschool students parading down Main Street each day, enjoy conversations with other members and staff of all religions and backgrounds, and are enjoying the Marcus JCC’s programming such as Jerry’s Habima Theatre and the Book Festival of the MJCCA. They are touched by the way the Marcus JCC prioritizes its members’ well-being and family values as a truly welcoming environment for all. “It fills me with pride that we are part of an organization that offers such opportunity and unity,” Roy beams.
It fills me with pride that we are part of an organization that offers such opportunity and unity.