The Power of Persistence: How Emily Chased her Dreams

“My name is Emily and I am only 12 years old. A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with a problem with my navicular bone, which was very painful and prevented me from running, which I love. I went to physio for many, many months, and did all my stretches. That helped for a while, but didn’t last. I went to the podiatrist and he told me that I should stop running completely or I would end up needing surgery. I also remember him saying that I was his youngest client with such a serious foot issue. He told me that I should start swimming or biking instead of running, or start another hobby that was less painful on my feet. I remember leaving his office crying and telling my mom that I will never quit running and that I don’t care about what happens to my feet.

My parents suggested I get a personal trainer to help me strengthen my muscles and hopefully with time, improve my condition. That's when we joined the Markham Y and met Andrea. My parents told her all about my condition and how much I love to compete and run. Andrea taught me how to compose myself better, develop proper posture, and how to control my pain with my breathing and stretching.  

In the first 4 lessons with her, I remember improving from 5th place to 2nd out of 52 girls.  As time went on, I improved more and more with her. She not only taught me better running form; she taught me to keep on pushing. No matter what the obstacle, I learned from Andrea that there is always a solution.

I have now been with Andrea for almost 1 year. I have improved a lot, not only in running but also in my fitness mark in school. During my last 4KM race out of 86 girls, I came in 1st place in my school and 2nd out of all the ACSI schools.

Right now, I am the most grateful person for going to the YMCA to train because I am so happy I can keep doing what I love.”