Pam Jarboe

Since 1989 I have exercised at TELOS regularly.  I am a class groupie; I enjoy exercising more when everyone else around me is also sweating and out of breath.  Throughout the years I've done high impact aerobics, low impact aerobics, Hi/Lo aerobics, bench classes, Power Jam, hip-hop, kickboxing, cycling, circuit classes, ballet (yes, ballet was on the schedule way back when!), SportsNut, TELOS Art, and yoga. I even met my husband, Steve, in Power Jam classes.  I have never been the strongest or most coordinated in the classes but, I have been consistent.  Aside from being away due to vacations, I don't think I've missed being at the club over 1 week in almost 19 years.  Being a dietitian by career I also fuel my body healthfully.  I practice balance, moderation and variety.  Because of my active lifestyle and good nutrition I have always considered myself to be healthy.  That belief came to a screeching halt last summer.  

In July I was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer.  Since then I have undergone 2 surgeries, was hospitalized with a staph infection, had 6 rounds of chemotherapy, and 6 weeks of radiation.  Because of the chemotherapy I had periods of feeling like a roach on raid, with poison oozing out of every cell.  At times I wanted to jump out of my skin, unable to get comfortable and unable to focus on anything.  My sense of smell, taste buds, and even my vision were compromised during treatment.  In addition to the physical challenges of cancer treatment my emotions ranged from fear and worry to disbelief and anger.

Throughout my treatment I continued to exercise at the club.  Exercise helped release stress and energize me. Equally important, however, I received so much concern and support from fellow members and TELOS staff.  I received cards from TELOS members, offers for meals, hand holding during treatment and even an offer to wash my car!  Even now as I continue to look healthier I am showered with well wishes.  I do feel that TELOS is my home.  

Because of my commitment to consistent exercise my doctors and I believe that my recovery was quick.  I was able to return to my exercise routine and everyday life within days following chemotherapy treatment.  Being fit also minimized my side effects from surgery and radiation.  The quality of services that TELOS offers, its luxurious facility, the staff and its members have all played a role in my dedication to exercise, which in turn has improved my quality of life.

 ~Pam Jarboe~