Carolyn Cacho (pictured left) is a member of the Hillcrest Family YMCA. You’ll find her at the branch several times a week, with a smile on her face and joy radiating from her. We had the opportunity to sit down with Carolyn to ask her how the Y has become part of her routine.
How did you get involved with the Y, and how long have you been a part of the community?
Around 2015, I found the Hillcrest Family YMCA. At that time, I wasn't very involved. I would come in, exercise, and go back home, not engaging much with those around me. Then in 2019, everything changed. I lost my daughter, and shortly after, suffered a catastrophic fall. It left me with serious medical and emotional consequences.
After the pandemic, I slowly began returning to the Y. I was also diagnosed with diabetes and insulin resistance, and I’ve since lost 50 pounds. The medicine used for my rehab has caused retinal damage and I became visually impaired. The YMCA became a lifeline. I rely on my community here. I've learned so much—especially from Deb, the membership coordinator, who has such a beautiful way of working with the youth. I cherish my fellow classmates in Rose’s water aerobics—it’s not just exercise; it’s a social circle and a source of joy.
What are your favorite activities at the Y?
Anything in the water is my favorite. Being in the pool brings me peace and energy—it’s where I feel most at home. I started with Rose's class but after the fall and surgeries and PT, I started doing water therapy on my own and found a wonderful group of people who do the same thing. I also love doing chair yoga and I enjoy that group too.
If you didn’t have the Y, what would be missing?
So much. The community, the structure, the sense of belonging. It’s my healing space—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It's where people check on me, where I feel safe, and where I can be with “my people.”
What inspires you to give back to the Y?
I give back via a monthly donation because I see supporting the Y as something organic and necessary. I contribute monthly because I never have large sums at hand. The smaller monthly gift is more manageable. I’m aware of my privileges and try to do more whenever I can. My experiences remind me that we all need each other. The Y is a village, and when I went to Florida, people from here still checked in on me. That meant everything.
What would you say to inspire others to get involved at the Y?
If you want to get rid of your cane—come exercise at the Y! Be a part of the success of this place. It’s good news you can live. I love seeing the kids in the pool and don’t mind sharing during summer camp. That kind of coexistence is a good message for the planet. The Y brings me so much joy—it’s wholesome. Why wouldn’t you work to make your environment better?
Anything else you'd like to share?
There’s healing here. Dialogue happens in civilized places, and the Y is one of them. I think often of Nessun Dorma, when Pavarotti sings, “Vincerò.” I will win. I try to remember that each day and share this positive message with others.