Three years ago, Barbara Monaghan developed cancer and had to undergo chemotherapy. While going through treatments, a drug interaction and a complication caused a breakdown in her muscles that resulted in her becoming paralyzed from head-to-toe. Barbara was told that she would be in a wheelchair for the rest of her life.

Determined to move beyond her new reality, Barbara started rehabilitation and lived in a rehabilitation facility for seven months. After leaving the facility, she and her husband Bill became members at the Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA through the Open Doors financial assistance program.

At the Y, Barbara was introduced to the portable harness system that allowed her to walk independently on the treadmill. Gradually, she built up stamina and strength and was able to walk on the treadmill for more than 15 minutes.

“The harness is a great system because it helps people who are not able to walk and it takes the fear out of falling.”

Barbara credits her therapist and the Y for getting her to where she is today.