Congratulations to Elyssa Schmitz, our September Fitness Patron of the Month!

Check out her story here:

Hi! My name is Elyssa. I am almost 29 years old and I happen to have Down Syndrome. My family tells me I'm the lucky one since I have more chromosomes than they do!

I have been active my entire life as my parents started me in PT, OT and Speech therapies when I was 3 weeks old. I walked at 16 months, and I credit that to all of the work my parents and therapists did with me.

My family has always been active as they realize the importance of a healthy lifestyle. I work with my personal trainer, Sheri, once a week. She keeps exercise fun and pushes me. We do different things every week - I like the variety and dancing to Copperhead Road at the end of my session. I enjoy working out as I feel so much better - that's what keeps me motivated. On my days off work, I come to the Rec center, do weights at home or walk with my mom. We also have a treadmill and weights at home - so I never have an excuse not to do something - my parents make sure of that!

I also realize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as individuals with Down Syndrome typically have a slow metabolism - so I monitor my portion sizes of food and make good decisions on what I eat. I know that it takes work to stay healthy!

In addition to working out - I lead a full life! I was in a short film about people with Down Syndrome - it's on YouTube - Just Like you Down Syndrome. The Global Down Syndrome Foundation has a fundraising event every year - Be Beautiful Be Yourself. I was lucky enough to model one year, and Carlos Gonzalez of the Rockies was my escort. The GDSF also recognizes how important it is to exercise - every summer, they hold a 2-week class of workouts. It's fun and they track our progress. I received a scholarship to take classes at Front Range Community College from the John Lynch Foundation - public speaking was one of my favorite classes! I also work 4 days a week - so I keep busy.

When I visit my Grandparents, they take me on hikes all over Grand Junction. I call them 'walks' as I don't like to 'hike'! Life is fun! I'm thankful for Sheri who always encourages me and cheers me on. She's helping me to be the best I can be!