Man says support of Chatham-Kent YMCA helped change his life

The 39-year-old found himself in a dark place after the accident and he turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with his depression. Then he began turning his life around thanks to the YMCA.

Noting he will have five years sobriety in August, Gawne said, “I wouldn’t have landed the way I did if I didn’t have the love and support of everyone, including my ‘Y’

“This is a big deal to me, this place,” he added.

Gawne shared his story Tuesday as part of the YMCA’s Community Starts Here fundraising campaign launch.

“We are committed here at the Y to building stronger, healthier communities,” said Andrew Lockie, chief executive of the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario.

“The Community Starts Here (campaign) helps people of all backgrounds, abilities and beliefs to participate in healthy and safe activities regardless of their circumstances,” he said.

Lockie said 32 per cent of YMCA members require financial assistance to participate in programs.

“Community Starts Here ensures that we continue to not turn people away on the basis of their ability to the pay,” he said.

Jim Loyer, the fundraising campaign chair, said this year’s goal is to raise $88,000.

“As you plan your charitable giving this year, if you are looking to make a tangible impact on the lives of and the wellness of our community, please consider the YMCA,” he said.

The campaign received a lead donation of $15,000 from TekSavvy Solutions.

Noting the Chatham-based company is a proud partner with the YMCA, administrative and event coordinator Dava Robichaud said TekSavvy is glad to “also play a part in giving the members of our community the thrill of participating, inclusion and building friendships and memories that will last forever.”

Gawne has gained memories and friendships at the YMCA.

Battling depression when he first arrived at the local YMCA about seven years ago using a wheelchair, Gawne really began to focus on getting fit as the COVID-19 pandemic hit and he had two years of sobriety.

Noting he was about 100 pounds heavier at the time, Gawne said, “I’m actually eight weeks with no cane.”

Adding he did a walk on the track for about eight kilometres, he said, “I spend a lot of time in here. This place is my safe haven.”

Chatham-Kent YMCA general manager Amy Wadsworth tears up when asked about Gawne’s journey.

“He’s an inspiration to a lot of people here,” she said.

Recalling his mobility issues, Wadsworth said, “To actually see him work out now, people would be floored at what he can do.”

As a fitness trainer, she loves seeing what the body can adapt to. And being passionate about health and fitness loves seeing people get inspired and be able to achieve their goals.

The Community Starts Here campaign is also a reason why Wadsworth loves working at the YMCA.

“I don’t have to turn anyone away,” she said.

Gawne’s progress has inspired him to set a lofty goal.

“I’m actually leaving this summer to bike across Canada to bring awareness to mental health and addictions,” he said.

He would also like to help with the homeless situation whether through the ride or afterwards.

“I just know that I’ve got a lot of work ahead of me and this is where I get all my training,” Gawne said.