MoveTru Member Blog -- Polly
Meet Polly.
She comes to MovNat classes at MoveTru nearly every day (often bringing her mom with her), and she's overcome a TON in the past few years. We are so happy to have Polly with us, and proud of her acheivements! I will just let Polly speak for herself, as she already said it all so perfectly...
I asked Polly a few things: 1. What makes MovNat special? 2. What was your most proud moment at MoveTru? 3. What has been the most important thing you learned at MoveTru? 4. Any tips for newcomers? Here is her answer to all those questions and more:
I hold your program and staff in such high regard. I think everyone, regardless of “disability” should join Move Tru. Both my parents, who only have age to contend with (growing older is not for the faint of heart) are benefitting from my push to join.
Now, bear in mind that I have some rather odd physical limitations. I never dreamed that I would have to learn how to navigate the world missing my right clavicle, first rib and a chunk of my sternum. Of course, the left pec flap closure of the wound only made the situation more complicated.
I don’t consider myself “handicapped”, and I fully believe that I can do anything. Both Julie and Jason have helped tremendously by treating me as I treat myself. They are completely respectful, kind, and generous with their time and knowledge. Their support has allowed me to commit my heart and mind to helping my body learn the smallest movements which are safe. These small movements have lead to huge successes in my physical abilities.
I can hang like a monkey from the bar! Holy cow! I was so happy, I just hung there smiling (for about 6 seconds, lol). My mom happened to be there that day, and she was flabbergasted. She actually asked me how I could do that. Julie just smiled at me and said she knew I could do it. It makes me cry just thinking about it. I never thought I would be able to do something like that again.
My training at Move Tru has allowed me to engage fully in life. I count on the fact that Julie and Jason want to help me do the things that I want to do. If I need to use my leaf blower, lift bags of compost, make a huge pot of enchilada sauce, balance on a ladder while using bypass loppers… I just tell them, and they cleverly devise safe and appropriate movements for me to practice.
While I have not suffered an new injuries since starting at Move Tru, I have “over-done” it on a couple of occasions. At the start of every class, the instructor asks how I’m doing. If I have any concerns, they want to know so that I don’t exacerbate the issue. Anyone just starting with Move Tru needs to know that they are in charge of voicing their concerns and limitations. They do not have to simply “comply” with the work-out regime. The staff will work with them to make sure they are working toward goals without causing any potentially painful “work-out” issues.
The level of concern for my well-being, which is actively expressed by the staff, is sincere and very touching. If I haven’t been into class for a couple of days, one of the trainers always reaches out to ask how I’m doing. Julie and Jason are my friends now. It is huge to have people in my life who understand what I am going through and want to help and be supportive.
-Polly