About 20 years ago I started a line dancing program for seniors which focuses on exercise.  
 
Despite the obvious benefits an exercise program can bring, the program is also an opportunity for seniors to meet other seniors as well as an opportunity to have fun.  
 
In fact the program has been a tremendous success.  
 
When I started I was 45 years old and had just been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromalgia, Osteoporosis and I`ve had panic and anxiety attacks since the age of 13. I had no self confidence, The panic attacks crippled me. I knew I needed exercise and I loved dancing and music so I started my first class and had 15 seniors there and it snowballed to over 200 seniors.  
 
I was on stage in front of all these people and I couldn`t feel my hands, I was numb one side of my body and that happened for about the first 2 years. The seniors made me feel so good about myself like I was doing something worthwhile, that’s what kept me there.  
 
We dance at nursing homes and I organize a trip for them once a year. Over the years the group has danced at close to 60 different locations, both within and outside the Yarmouth area. 
 
I feel very strongly that if you stay home and think about pain your going to have pain. I always tried not to let my panic and pain stop me from doing whatever I want to do. I do it anyway.