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STAYING ACTIVE - Taylorsville couple Frances and Bill Douglas frequently work out at the YMCA. Mrs. Douglas says the activity helps keep her going despite the fact she has multiple sclerosis (MS).

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Article & Photo courtesy of the Taylorsville Times
By MICAH HENRY

For many folks, exercise is an activity that is often overlooked. However, Taylorsville residents Bill and Frances Douglas say that working out at the Alexander County YMCA keeps them going.

Bill, age 77, and wife Frances, age 73, are often seen during morning hours at the YMCA. What makes this remarkable, though, is that the couple routinely takes to the gym despite Frances' fight with multiple sclerosis, which has been going on for some 34 years now.

"The MS goes and comes," said Bill.

Often, simply coming to the Y can be difficult, but the couple's determination is the key.

"We go five times a week," said Bill, "usually in the morning. She's been going to the Y since before the MS was diagnosed."

In fact, Bill said Frances has worked out at the YMCA in Statesville before the Taylorsville facility was opened.

Seeing the Douglases keep their work out schedule has inspired several YMCA members in their efforts to get fit.

Lou Whitten, who attends East Taylorsville Baptist Church with Bill and Frances, is often at the Y when the couple exercises.

"I'm never usually in the mood to come in, but we should come in no matter what we feel like," said Whitten. "It's inspiring to see an older woman fight disease. If she can do it [work out], I can do it. It's like a family here; we care about each other."

Bill's sister, Joyce Abbott of Taylorsville, also visits the YMCA and knows the couple is special.

"He's always there for her. He makes sure she is taken care of," said Abbott. "I just admire both of them. She has been a real trooper through this whole ordeal. It breaks my heart to see what she is going through."

"She's an amazing person and a lot of us could learn a lot from him," said Abbott.

Eloise Davis, also of Taylorsville, knows Bill and Frances.

"I really admire Frances. She is a wonderful person. She will make all of us want to do better," Davis stated.

QUICK FACTS ABOUT THE YMCA

• Friendly, Family and Christian Oriented Atmosphere
• Many Fitness Classes Offered (Yoga/Pilates, Spinning, Circuit, Aerobics)
• A Great Place to meet new friends and find workout buddies
• Caring and Helpful Staff
• Central Location
• Reasonable Rates
• Child Centered Programs (Gymnastics, Summer Day Camp, Karate, Soccer, T-Ball, Youth Fit, Child Watch)
• Founded and governed by volunteers, the YMCA is a charitable not-for-profit organization that serves people of all ages, races, religions and incomes.
• Offers Personal Training and Fitness analysis testing
• United Way Agency