As I turn 55, I’m becoming more thoughtful of things I barely considered before. Aging is something we don’t often contemplate. My 19-year career at the Ottawa YMCA has given me the opportunity to see the human condition in all stages. Before being hired, I was a young mother seeking a preschool for her 4-year-old daughter.
At that time, we were new to town and had few connections. I felt isolated, but excited about starting life in a new town. I barely noticed senior citizens I would pass in the halls.
As time went on, I was offered a position working at the YMCA service desk. As with any customer service job you get to see people at their best and their worst. I developed a special affection for our senior members. I took time to learn their names, their personalities, their heartaches, and what made each of them special. Many seniors were eager to share their stories.
I learned why Spider was called Spider, and that he has a TV star grandson. I came to appreciate Margaret’s many hats and noticed when Al was gone for months at a time on one of his jobs. I consoled members who lost a spouse and looked at countless pictures of grandchildren. Some seniors tell me YMCA was their only socialization during the week. Coming to class and talking to friends gave them a connection they needed.
Time moves quickly and I have seen a lot of changes at the YMCA. One constant is the loyalty seniors have shown us. Throughout the pandemic they were our biggest supporters. They were grateful for our virtual classes and the phone calls we made to check on them. When we re-opened in June, they were the first people in the door, despite them being the most vulnerable to this virus we were battling. We took the responsibility of offering safe refuge seriously and made use of every precaution to protect our friends.
One of my favorite songs is “Veronica” by Elvis Costello. In the lyrics we hear the life and whimsy fade from a grandmother’s eyes as she contracts Alzheimer’s disease. I think of that song and the fascinating lives of the seniors that come through the YMCA’s doors.
Everybody has a story. I am blessed I can share the stories of our area’s seniors. My wish is that they know we are here for them. It is our honor to be a small part of their amazing stories.
Kelly Petterson is the membership and marketing director at the Ottawa YMCA.