Aquatic Relief for Arthritis
By Mona

When my husband died, I began looking for activities to occupy my time. When I found the Arthritis Foundation Aquatics Class, I knew I had found the activity that was a perfect match for me. Not only did it get me out of the house, but it helped with my arthritis, and I have always loved the water.

Attending the Aquatics Class has really been a surprising treat for me. Before I began the class, my arthritis was so bad that I could hardly move my shoulders.  The class has really helped increase my mobility and range of motion, and I’ve even lost weight. In addition to the physical benefits, the Aquatics Class has been a great socializing experience and has given me more self confidence.

I attend the Aquatics Class three days a week and I always look forward to it. Under the guidance of our wonderful instructor, Connie Lancy, we start with walking and stretching in the water, and then move head to toe working every joint and muscle. The water is like warm bath water and really helps increase the movement in the muscles, making it less painful than exercising on land.

I have been in the Arthritis Foundation Aquatics Class for over four years now, and it really lifted me out of a funk of depression. I wish that everyone would try the class at least once. If they knew how good it makes you feel, everyone would do it. It has really been such a great experience for me, and so much fun that I encouraged my brother, my sister-in-law, and my sister to join the class.

With the help of your donations to the United Way of Summit County, the Aquatics Class is just one way the Arthritis Foundation provides exercise classes, arthritis education, and treatment options for people with arthritis, the general public, and healthcare professionals. Because of this program I have made new friends, increased my mobility and had a lot of fun. Thank you.