Remembering Mrs. Jackson
Doris and Douglas Jackson joined the Winston Lake Family YMCA two years ago and since then have had a lasting impact on the staff and members at our branch. Mrs. Douglas suffered from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) for many years and was required to carry an oxygen tank at all times. Her doctors told her she would carry her oxygen the rest of her life. The Jacksons decided to work on fighting this medical issue as a team.
The couple worked with a Y Wellness Coordinator on a daily basis who assured Mrs. Jackson that if she stuck with her wellness routine, the physical benefits would help her to become less reliant on her oxygen support. A year later, Mrs. Jackson was off the oxygen tank and her overall quality of life improved dramatically!
They are the couple that is known for always being together at all times, always dressing alike whether it was a Sunday’s best or just coming to SilverSneakers® classes) and always showing displays of true and genuine love. On August 8, Mrs. Jackson went into the hospital for back pains and fell into a coma. The Y staff and members went to check on Mr. Jackson and made various phone calls throughout this time to provide support. Mrs. Jackson passed on August 19. This unfortunate news really shook our staff and members.
Her homegoing service was so touching in many ways. As I mentioned, the Jacksons always dressed alike. On this day, they both had on the same T-shirt and gray slacks and Mr. Jackson said he wanted to dress like his “honey” one more time. There was overwhelming support from the Y at her service! There were at least 50 members and all full-time staff present. The support shown during Mr. Jackson’s time of bereavement really speaks to how the Y is not just a gym and swim. We are so much more than that!
Mr. Jackson told me he is eternally grateful for all the love and support that was shown to him during this time. He said he never knew that this is what the Y would be about.
Jolyn Roberts
Program Director
Winston Lake Family YMCA