Learning to swim is one of the most important life skills a person can have. In our community, where beaches, lakes, and pools are all around us, knowing how to feel safe and confident in the water truly matters.
At the YMCA, we believe everyone deserves the chance to learn – no matter their age or ability. We offer a wide range of swim lessons so every member of our community can take that step, whenever they feel ready. Some people start young. Others, like Lee, find their moment later in life.
Lee’s story reminds us that it’s never too late to try something new.
Four Decades at the Y
Lee has been part of the Midland YMCA for more than 40 years. For most of that time, the routine looked familiar to many of us: come in three or four times a week, get moving, and head home.
But over the years, the Y became so much more than a place to work out.
“At the Y I’ve been connected to people, and my experience here has built my health – not just physical but also my mental health, which I think goes hand-in-hand with physical wellbeing,” Lee shares. “The skills, confidence, and the opportunities for exploration and growth have been incredible.”
A Place to Turn During Hard Times
Life has a way of testing us. As Lee faced illness, loss, anxiety, and insomnia over the years, the Y became a steady source of comfort.
“Slowly through the years, as I dealt with hard personal things, I became more involved at the Y,” Lee explains. “If I would wake up at 5:30 in the morning and couldn’t sleep, I would go to the Y! We know that activity dissipates and dissolves anxiety.”
For Lee, the Y was never just a building. “It’s a very healthy, welcoming, and inclusive place to come. It’s been my happy place for over 40 years.”
Still, one part of the Y remained off-limits – the pool.
“Whenever a staff member would come by, they would say, ‘You should be in the pool! You should be swimming!’ And I’d reply, ‘No! It’s wet and cold!'”
The Moment Everything Changed
Sometimes it takes an unexpected turn to open a new door. For Lee, that turn came during a serious medical crisis.
“Within months I went from being okay to not being able to walk,” Lee recalls. “Because I couldn’t do my routine, I ventured into the pool for the first time.” With a smile, Lee adds, “It was 76 degrees…”
What Lee found in the water was something completely unexpected.
“I discovered a whole other culture and group of Y people who were so kind and supportive. And I learned how to swim at 66. It took three months to get my head in the water – yup, like a two-year-old, blowing the bubbles – and I did it.”
“You’re a Swimmer Now”
The pride in Lee’s journey shines through in one simple moment.
“My physiotherapist recently said, ‘Well, you’re a swimmer now.’ Even to hear that feels weird,” Lee laughs. “But to know that as I age, I’ll be able to be in the pool is a great feeling.”
Then, with quiet honesty, Lee reflects on what this place means: “If my last breath is in this building, then I will be happy, because this is such a special place.”
It’s Never Too Late to Begin
Lee’s story is a wonderful reminder that growth has no age limit. Whether you’re two years old and blowing your first bubbles, or 66 and finally getting your head underwater, every step forward is worth celebrating.
At the YMCA, we’re honoured to walk alongside members like Lee. We’re here to support everyone in our community – regardless of age, background, or ability – as they discover new skills, build confidence, and find their own happy place.
If you’ve ever thought about learning to swim, let Lee’s journey be your sign. The water is warmer than you think, the community is kinder than you’d expect, and the right time to start is now.
Come as you are. We’ll be right there with you.