At 81 years young, Whitlow Wyatt has been a proud member of the Fayette County Family YMCA for 12 years. A lifelong outdoor enthusiast, Whitlow embodies the Y’s mission of building a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
Following a severe illness that caused him to lose 60 pounds and much of his muscle strength, Whitlow began training with Melaney McCabe, one of the Y’s dedicated wellness professionals. With Melaney’s support and the help of a team that includes a nutritionist and a massage therapist, Whitlow is making remarkable progress. “I’m feeling stronger and more flexible,” he says with a smile. “Each week, I see improvement.”
Whitlow’s current goal is deeply personal — to regain enough strength to pull back his archery bow, a passion that began when he was 11 years old at Boy Scout summer camp. “That’s where I first learned to swim, paddle a canoe, and shoot a bow,” he recalls.
Melaney shares that working with Whitlow has been a joy. “He’s caught on fast,” she says. “We work so well together, and I truly enjoy our time. His determination inspires me.”
Whitlow’s journey reflects what the YMCA stands for — resilience, connection, and belonging. His story reminds us that at any age, with the right support and community, growth and recovery are always possible.
