YMCA Member Story: A ‘Better Caregiver’ Thanks to the Y

Dot Dmuchowski is a retiree who has found herself in the role of a caregiver for her family members. Her father had been diagnosed with leukemia and she became a daily “care driver” for his regular visits to doctors and specialists, as well as to the hospital for blood transfusions.

The routine was taking a toll on her. As her dad’s illness progressed, the YMCA became her “escape” - a place where she could focus on her own well-being so she could be a better caregiver.

“When he wasn't going to a doctor's appointment I drove him to his next hospital stay or rehab stint. At the end of the day, his respite was his comfy brown chair and mine was the classes at the Y,” she said.

Sadly, her dad passed away in May of 2023, and now she is taking care of her mother who is recovering from a fall.

Dot has been a member of the Sussex County YMCA for two years now and visits four to five times a week to participate in group fitness classes. She loves the Y’s non-judgmental atmosphere where instructors offer modifications if someone is unable to do a move or exercise in the class.

She says the Y has helped her become a more patient caregiver during challenging times. “The next chapter will start with my mom and the Y will be there to support me,” she said.