When Tomica Davis began focusing on recovery, she knew that improving her physical health would be an important part of building a new life. She needed a place where she could exercise, develop healthy routines and form positive, sober relationships.
She found that place at the Lakewood Family YMCA.
Tomica first came to the Y after learning that her CareSource coverage included six months of membership. Her case manager at Recovery Resources accompanied her and helped her enroll. From that first visit, Tomica felt supported.
“The very first person I encountered was the front desk clerk, Yvette,” Tomica recalled. “She made the entire process understandable, clear and easy. Every time I come in and see her, she is still a warm and welcoming face.”
That welcome mattered. As Tomica worked through recovery and mental health challenges, she had gained weight and was experiencing knee pain. Her doctor was also concerned that she was approaching pre-diabetes. At 315 pounds, she began a gradual journey toward better health.
Today, Tomica weighs 280 pounds—a 35-pound accomplishment that reflects far more than a number on the scale.
“The Y gave me a safe, sober environment where I could work toward one of my recovery goals: building healthy, sober associations,” she said. “My progress has boosted my confidence, helped me work toward both my recovery and health goals, and shown me that I am capable of making meaningful changes in my life.”
Tomica found encouragement throughout the Y community. In Zumba class, she was welcomed without judgment and encouraged to move at her own pace. At first, breathing difficulties and pain required her to take several breaks. Now she can participate for the entire class.
She has made progress in the pool as well. Swimming provides the low-impact exercise her doctor recommended for her knees, and Tomica still remembers the first time she completed full laps without becoming overwhelmed.
Working with personal trainer Sacha brought greater focus to her workouts. Instead of simply doing whatever exercises she could, Tomica began following routines designed around her abilities and goals.
The weight room presented a different challenge. Surrounded by people who appeared more experienced, Tomica initially felt insecure. Sometimes, she said, walking through the door required courage.
“I have learned to push past those feelings and remind myself that I have just as much right to be there as anyone else,” she said. “I do not have to wait until I look a certain way to take up space in a fitness environment.”
Her progress has extended beyond fitness. After finding employment, earning a promotion and receiving a raise, Tomica became ineligible for some of the assistance that initially supported her membership. She applied for YMCA financial assistance and eventually reached a point where she could maintain her membership herself.
For someone learning to budget, pay bills and become financially independent while in recovery, continuing to invest in her YMCA membership became another important achievement. Programs at the Y also helped her strengthen her financial literacy, including learning about credit and money management.
Tomica’s goal is to reach 180 pounds, but her journey is already transforming her health, confidence and sense of what is possible. Her family and friends have noticed the difference, and she hopes her experience encourages others facing challenges of their own.
“I don’t always look at what I am doing and think that it is something extraordinary,” Tomica said. “To me, I am simply continuing to show up for myself, one day at a time, and doing the work necessary to become healthier and stronger.”
At the Lakewood Family YMCA, Tomica has found more than a place to exercise. She has found welcoming people, practical resources and a supportive community where she can keep moving forward—one visit, one lap and one day at a time.