ROBERT MILLER from Hughesville

MUNCY – Robert Miller from Hughesville most recently won the Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award at the Silver Sneakers program from the East Lycoming YMCA in Muncy Township.

This award honors a member of the Silver Sneakers Fitness Program whose fitness and healthy behavior has made a difference in his or her own life. Miller said he had a hard time at first but he kept going and it really helped him get stronger. He has been participating in the program for just over a year now.

The award is in memory of the founder, Mary Swanson’s father, who served as inspiration for his daughter to start the nationally acclaimed Silver Sneakers program. Miller also related that he had a hard time breathing and even walking short distances. “I had to stop a lot just to catch my breath,” he said. He couldn’t walk around the gym for a full lap when he started. Now he can do a 5K walk which he accomplished last April.

“My weight is down and I lost 40 pounds,” he said giving thanks to the program. Instructor Diana Logan stated that Miller has come a long way since he started. Different people have told him how far he has come. “It has really changed my life,” Miller added concerning his overall health and attitude. “What a wonderful program this has been. The leaders really make it what it is. Excellent!”