"You can't go wrong with getting strong."
In 2019, Gavin Potter received life-changing news when he was diagnosed with a medulloblastoma brain tumor. Although he successfully completed his treatment, Gavin was left with limited mobility and physical challenges. Now, his focus is on optimizing his recovery, and the South Shore YMCA Partnership Program has become an essential part of his journey.
“My physical therapist once joked with me, ‘you can’t go wrong getting strong,’" says Gavin, "Although it was just a passing comment, I’ve taken it to heart.” This simple phrase has become a personal mantra for Gavin, inspiring him to continue his fitness journey despite the challenges he faces.
The Partnership Program is a recreational, non-clinical program designed specifically for persons with physical disabilities who need specialized, adaptive exercise equipment, such as those in wheelchairs or with physical limitations due to stoke or spinal cord injury. Free to South Shore YMCA members, the program pairs participants with staff or training partners who assist with workouts designed to improve or maintain physical ability. “I struggle with mobility, so having someone to help me move around the gym is invaluable — especially when physical fitness is so important to me,” Gavin says, "it's a blessing to have someone help me access all the equipment."
For Gavin, the benefits of the program go beyond just physical fitness. He loves being part of a welcoming community that makes every visit to the gym something to look forward to. “As much as I enjoy the exercise itself, being part of a community is wonderful. Seeing friendly, familiar faces each time I visit is something I genuinely look forward to. One of my personal goals was to make more social connections, and the Partnership Program has absolutely helped me achieve that,” Gavin shares. He and the fellow Partnership Program participants meet monthly for a social hour to share food, stories, advice, and support.
Gavin, who has been involved in the program for over six months, feels excited about his progress and is committed to continuing his journey. With the support of his family and our Partnership Program team, he looks forward to achieving even more milestones — including shooting a basketball again.
