Alice Sale has been working with Jon LeMessurier, Aspen Primary Care Network (PCN) exercise specialist, since September 24, 2015. Alice is a resident of Pleasant Valley Lodge (PVL) in Athabasca and participates in the Aspen PCN Forever Young program. This 45minute program is offered 2 times a week at PVL and is free for all participants.

The first time Alice and Jon met was for her fitness testing and consultation. Alice set a goal right from the start that she wanted to walk again and be able to drive a vehicle so she could visit her family. Alice had been in a wheelchair for two years and was “done with it!” She never lost focus on her goal and in every class, reminded Jon that she was determined to walk again. Never missing a class, always the first one to show up and ready to go, Alice was on a mission.

In addition to her work with Jon, Alice has spent 3 days a week working with the PVL activity coordinator. This 5 day-a-week program has served Alice well. Her hard work, including many hallway walks pushing Jon in her wheelchair, has resulted in Alice’s continuous progress. At 85 years young, Alice Sale has gone from being 95% dependent on her wheelchair to, as of May 2016, only needing a cane or walker for some minor support. To really show how hard work pays off, Alice recently got behind the wheel again.

We are beyond happy for Alice Sale’s successes. Alice has shown all of us that at any age we can set goals and achieve them with determination and hard work. Alice has now set a new goal to work on improving her balance while continuing to keep her mobility strong.

Way to go Alice! You are one of the reasons why we at PCN love giving back to our community.