Stan Cuff has faced serious health challenges over the past two decades. After suffering a stroke in October 2021, he turned to the Bear-Glasgow Y for support. The staff welcomed him immediately, and he enrolled in the YMCA’s adaptive fitness program, which offers personal training services to individuals living with disabilities. This marked the start of a stroke recovery story shaped by patience, consistency, and community support.
Since joining the program, Stan has lost 50 pounds and feels healthier than he has in years. He hopes his story motivates others to take steps toward better health before facing similar challenges. “I nearly died,” he said. “It seems what you do or don’t do in one decade, determines the outcomes you’ll experience in the following decades.”
Thanks to financial support from the Ys Open Doors program, Stan is able to train one-on-one with Adaptive Fitness Coordinator Zachary Lipson, who has seen vast improvements in his mobility, strength, and overall health. “The mission of the Y is to reach out and help those who are underserved.” Stan says. “I’m making progress, gaining muscle, decreasing fat, and all of it’s because of the programs I participate in here at the Y that are just abundant.”
Stan’s progress is now one of the many YMCA success stories that reflect how dedicated support can improve lives. His journey shows how community programs can make health and rehabilitation accessible to more people.
Learn more about the Adaptive Fitness program on our YMCA Health and Fitness page.