Meet Brenda Spuckti
Brenda Spuckti and her family have been members of UMLY for over 20 years. Brenda reached out to UMLY staff members Tina Elderidge and Cindy Panaro back in 2018 for support working through a difficult time. To learn more about Brenda's experience as a member and how that inspired her to join Team UMLY as a staff member, we caught up with her for a Q&A.
Q: When did you join the Y?
A: My family and I have been members of the Upper Main Line Y (UMLY) since 2005. Our kids attended preschool, learned to swim, and earned blackbelts in Tae Kwan Do here at UMLY! They had a great time at Camp UMLY each summer. They are now 21 and 24 years old. UMLY has been and will always be a part of our community.
Q: How has the Y been supportive of you?
A: Back in 2018 I was going through a difficult time. I was struggling, not taking care of myself and dealing with an injury. I felt lost. I reached out to Tina Eldridge, Group Ex Instructor at UMLY and Cindy Panaro, UMLY Personal Trainer for help.
This was the best decision I made. These two amazing women took me under their wings, and their support has been nothing short of transformative. They helped me grow stronger, both physically and mentally, they held my hand and cheered me on every step of the way. Their encouragement, knowledge and kindness have empowered me to make positive changes in my life that I will carry with me always.
Q: When did you become a staff member at UMLY?
In 2022 I joined the UMLY staff as a Wellness Attendant. I also serve as UMLY's ForeverWell coordinator, planning fun and free events for members aged 55+. I am happy to be able to give back to a community that has given so much to me.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
A: I am grateful to Cindy and Tina for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself. I will forever be grateful for the guidance and care that they both have shown me.
Additionally, I’d like to extend my sincere appreciation to UMLY for creating such a supportive and welcoming environment. It has been a place where I’ve felt welcomed and encouraged to work toward my best self. The Y has played a crucial role in my wellness journey, and I’m so thankful to be part of it.