For 68-year-old Dianne Ramsay, the YMCA has been a guiding light nearly her entire life.

She remembers first taking swimming lessons at just eight years old in the basement of the original YMCA on 10th Street East. Over the years, her connection with the Y has shifted on and off, but it has always been there, a steady glow through life’s many seasons.

Dianne’s career path reflects her passion for caring for others. She became an Educational Assistant, an Early Childhood Educator, and a Community Support Worker before starting as a supply staff at the YMCA Daycare. Later, she worked as a Community Support Worker with a young woman with autism who also participated in Special Olympics. Dianne supported her both at Special Olympics and at Y Summer Camp, creating meaningful experiences together.

While supporting this young woman, Dianne began spending more time in the pool, igniting a spark that turned into a personal passion. When she wasn’t walking the track, she was in the water, challenging herself to swim lengths, stroke by stroke. She also found joy in Aquafit classes, which remain an important part of her wellness routine today.

Even during her busiest years, including as a single mother, Dianne prioritized her well-being. She remembers trying to get to the YMCA by 6 a.m. before heading to work, carving out time to care for herself and stay strong.

One special memory she holds close is a YMCA T-shirt she received during those earlier years. The shirt read, “My Y is determined.” That message continues to inspire her to this day.

With the encouragement of YMCA staff, including Sandra who motivated her to aim for 100 lengths on Mondays, and Allan who suggested increasing by two lengths each day that week and adding four more the following Monday, Dianne has reached impressive milestones. She is quick to say that all of the YMCA staff have been encouraging and supportive, as has the entire Y community.

As of June 30th, Dianne has swum an astounding 185 miles. Her recent goal was to swim 100 lengths, which she completed in two hours. Now, she is determined to achieve that in one hour and forty-five minutes. She alternates between breaststroke and sidestroke, finding what works best for her body and keeps her moving forward.

Dianne’s story is one of perseverance through divorce, single parenting, injuries, spinal surgery, and the natural challenges of aging. She has adapted her fitness routine to continue thriving. The YMCA’s financial assistance program has helped ensure she can stay connected to the place that lifts her up in body, mind, and spirit.

“Just keep swimming” is one of the mantras that keeps her going. The YMCA is her constant, her sanctuary, her spark, and most importantly, her community. Thanks to the generosity of donors and the strength of our Y family, Dianne and many others can continue to shine on.

Pictured: Dianne Ramsay, YMCA Member and Marilyne Jones, Supervisor of Aquatics.