Both of the acknowledged Bogalusa YMCA big time weight losers said that their treks to greater fitness started with a health scare, and both said they prayed and that God provided the health and support they needed.

Keely McKelphin said she started having health problems due to diabetes and high blood pressure.

“I started walking 30 minutes a day, but then my doctor, Keisha Harvey, told me I needed to add some weights, or begin an exercise program,” she said. “So, I started the Bogalusa YMCA in August of 2015. That is where I meet Ms. Brooke Kennedy, and I started working out daily.

“I’m not going to tell you that it was easy because it was definitely hard, but I kept coming back day after day. I cut out carbs, sodas, sugars and all those fatty foods. I started feeling great and seeing the results. When I went back to the doctor, my blood pressure numbers looked so good, the best I had seen in years. And I had no more diabetes! All of my medication doses were cut in half and, praise the Lord, no insulin!

“I kept working out daily and never stopped praying and trusting God to help me cause, I knew I could not do this without him. I have had the support of husband, my family, and Brooke Kennedy. They push me to better myself. Brooke has been such a blessing to me. She pushes me. I am so tired when I get home, but I absolutely love it.”

McKelphin said Kennedy “offers all kinds of different classes, and she also shows modifications, so anyone can do it. I see the results so I know it works! If you’re looking to better yourself, I know you can do it, because I did! Anything is possible! I thank you so much, Brooke Kennedy. I couldn’t do it without you. Praise the Lord!”

Kennedy praised McKelphin’s workout ethic.

“She has truly shown dedication, coming five days a week to my classes,” she said. “Since she started in 2015, she has lost over 100 pounds! She is definitely proof that hard work, dedication and proper nutrition all come together to produce amazing results.

“I am so extremely proud of this woman, she is a blessing in my life, and one of the many reasons I love my job as a personal trainer. I started this journey many years ago because I wanted to make an impact on other people’s lives, little did I know how greatly they would impact mine.

“God has truly blessed me with such wonderful clients and work staff, not only are we joined together for a purpose of changing our lives for the better, but we all are like one big happy family. So, if you’re looking to transform your life, get on the right path today, come see me, Brooke Kennedy at the Bogalusa YMCA, where lives are changing daily.”

Kennedy encourages everyone to get in optimal health by joining the YMCA family. The Y offers a variety of classes, so there is something for people at all levels of fitness. The Bogalusa YMCA phone number is 985-732-3741.