Ellen’s Story:

Strength, Determination, and the Power of Neuro-Fit

Before her stroke in March 2023, Ellen lived an active life and believed deeply in the importance of health and movement. That belief never wavered. From the earliest days of her recovery, Ellen made a clear decision: she would keep pushing forward.

When Ellen joined Neuro-Fit at the Marblehead YMCA in December 2023, she was using a wheelchair and relearning how to walk. At first, she relied heavily on a gait belt and the steady support of an intern. Her early goals were practical and independence-focused—becoming efficient with a rollator and using Uber as her primary mode of transportation. Within a year, she achieved both.

Today, Ellen’s progress is unmistakable. Her Neuro-Fit program includes unassisted treadmill walking, balance training, strengthening exercises, and mobility work using a hemi-walker - a smaller, more portable device that supports her next phase of independence. She has recently begun using strength machines and can independently navigate getting on and off equipment, a milestone that once felt far out of reach.

Along the way, Ellen has celebrated meaningful wins: dancing independently at a friend’s wedding, using her kitchen with greater confidence, and taking steps without any assistive device.

Her goals for 2026 are ambitious and inspiring: earning her driver’s license and becoming fully efficient with her hemi-walker.

Ellen also believes in giving back. She has helped raise funds for Neuro-Fit by participating in the Annual Battlegreen Race, sharing why the program matters so much to her:

“After having a stroke, I gained back strength and stamina through Neuro-Fit. I love working with the college interns—they see me as capable. After 38 years as a speech pathologist, the teacher in me appreciates learning alongside them. They bring energy and motivation. I love this program.”

Ellen’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with determination, community, and the right support. Neuro-Fit isn’t just about exercise—it’s about rebuilding confidence, independence, and joy.