Health
- Last Updated on Sunday, 03 June 2018 01:41
Family and friends of Paul Hook recently gathered together for lunch and a swim at the Center for Fitness and Health in the Monongahela Valley Hospital HealthPlex to make his wish come true.
Pictured are (l –r): Paul Hook; Avery Lavella, intern at Amedysis; Don Doyle, general manager, Center for Fitness and Health |
Five years ago, Mr. Hook was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Living in West Newton, Mr. Hook would take his three daughters swimming in the Youghiogheny River. Before his symptoms became too severe, Mr. Hook wanted to swim one last time.
Caitlin Zarone, an intern with Amedisys working with Mr. Hook, reached out to the ALS Foundation and the Center for Fitness and Health to put this event together. The ALS Foundation provided the transportation and food; the Center for Fitness and Health provided the pool and space for lunch.
“When we received the call about using our pool, we agreed immediately,” said Don Doyle, general manager, Center for Fitness and Health. “Providing the lap pool for one of our community members was the least we could do. We are part of a mission-driven organization to enhance the health of the residents of the mid-Monongahela Valley.”
Front: Paul Hook and Back: Don Doyle, general manager, Center for Fitness and Health and Casey Mcholme, fitness instructor, Center for Fitness and Health |