At the YMCA of Central Kentucky, community is at the heart of everything we do, and long-time members Jackie Brochu, Mary Malone, and Carol Wagner embody that spirit. These three women, each with their own path to the Y, have found strength, friendships, and purpose in their wellness journeys - and in each other.
Over the years, their commitment to health and connection has only deepened. Today, you’ll find all three regularly taking Corey’s Impact 30 class at the North Lexington Family YMCA, where sweat, support, and laughter go hand in hand. They are also active participants in Lori Vaught's Impact Gold class, where her positivity, guidance, and genuine care have played a meaningful role in their journeys. “It’s not just a workout,” Mary says. “It’s fun. There’s connection. People notice when you’re not there - and that makes a difference.”
Each woman’s Y story started in a different season of life. Jackie joined after foot surgery, seeking a low-impact path to healing. Mary became a member in 2005 after the YWCA closed, and soon went from participant to water fitness instructor. Carol joined more recently after retiring, determined to make wellness a daily part of her new routine. “The day after I retired, I started working out,” she says. “I didn’t want to lose momentum.”
From boxing and pickleball to TRX, yoga, and SilverSneakers, their schedules are as dynamic as they are. Carol jokes that she’s at the Y so often, she might as well move in. Jackie values the balance and variety in her routine, while Mary enjoys mixing things up and challenging herself with new classes. “Sometimes I just look through the schedule and say, ‘Maybe I’ll try that,’” she says.
The benefits extend far beyond the physical. Jackie recently completed a mountain hike she never thought possible. She credits this milestone moment to her growing strength and the support of others, including YMCA healthy living coordinator Lori, who not only encouraged Jackie to take the leap, but joined her on the trail. “I didn’t realize how strong I’d gotten until I actually did something that proved it,” she says. Carol’s gained confidence on the pickleball court and better rest at night. And Mary, fueled by accountability and community, remains consistently active. “People are expecting me to show up,” she says. “And I don’t want to let them down - or myself.”
All three share a future-focused mindset: staying active, independent, and inspiring those around them. “I look at some of the older members and think, ‘That’s what I want - to still be doing this in my 80s,’” Jackie says. Carol adds, “I want to keep moving for as long as I can - and the Y helps me do my part.”
We’re proud to celebrate Jackie, Mary, and Carol, as well as all our members who show up, lift each other up, and prove every day that we’re stronger together.
