Finding Community: Robb's Story

Robb was leading a successful career in the banking industry when he acquired a traumatic brain injury about 23 years ago. Due to his injury, he was unable to return to banking, though his coworkers and peers wanted to welcome him back. Just over five years ago, he moved from Indianapolis to Fort Wayne and discovered Turnstone through a family friend who suggested he try out the programs. Turnstone offered Robb something he had been missing-- a place to improve his physical health, mental health, and social opportunities.

He started out in the Adult Day Service (ADS) program and then became a Fitness member shortly after. The ADS program helped him establish a routine and engage in games and activities with others. The Fitness and Aquatic Center became a part of the routine he created in ADS. He never visited a gym before, but his physical therapist recommended that he strengthen his shoulders to help him recover from an injury and improve his mobility. Now he works out in the fitness and aquatic center four times a week. His dedication and consistent attendance created a noticeable improvement in his physical strength as well as his mental health and feeling of community.

Turnstone’s fitness staff fully embraced Robb and created a workout plan to help him meet his goals. They taught him how to use each machine so he could work out independently. He enjoys using the adaptive weight machines and swimming laps in the pool several times a week. Very quickly, Robb noticed improvements in his shoulders as well as his overall well-being.

“I feel good after working out here. It makes me a little bit more relaxed and in a better mood,” said Robb.

As he progresses, Turnstone’s fitness specialists create new plans with different exercises so that he can reach new goals and keep his routine fresh. Staff also make sure to check in on him and make themselves available when he has questions or needs assistance.

“I like that I can work out on my own but the staff are always around to help. They are very conscious of clients and they are always willing to help and provide one-on-one attention if needed,” said Robb.

Robb appreciates every new person he has met and enjoys having the opportunity to create meaningful relationships with the people he sees daily. In the fitness center and pool, Robb has found a community of people who check in on him and make him feel included.

“Last week my blood sugar was low so I wasn’t able to swim, but it’s funny because several of my swim buddies and Turnstone staff saw me and asked if I was doing okay since they didn’t see me at the pool like normal,” Robb smiled. The people he’s gotten to know in the fitness center always look out for each other, which is very meaningful to Robb.

Though Robb became a fitness member to improve his physical health, he found a place full of people ready to befriend and support him along the way.

Make a gift today to empower clients like Robb who find community at Turnstone while working on their goals.