A Westerville resident just might have what it takes to win a national fitness award.
Rita Connor has been selected as one of 10 finalists for the SilverSneakers Fitness Richard
Photo courtesy of Allison+Partners
Rita Connor
L. Swanson Inspiration Award. The award pits Connor against competition from across the nation.
To earn a victory, Connor will have to win in a public vote on SilverSneakers’ Facebook page. Voting will be open through Aug. 7.
The award, now in its 11th year, honors a Healthways SilverSneakers member who has shown a dedication to health and well-being that makes a difference in the nominee’s own life and also inspires and motivates others. After being nominated, Connor was selected as a finalist for her dedication to fitness and overall well-being.
Connor, 77, first became involved with the SilverSneakers Fitness program through Curves of Westerville.
Connor started exercising with Curves to counter her Parkinson’s disease after a suggestion from her sister that the two go together. Despite being regularly active and involved with her community throughout her life, Connor was initially apprehensive.
The SilverSneakers Fitness program helped Connor overcome her apprehension and gain confidence. Soon, she saw improvements in flexibility and was better able to manage her Parkinson’s disease.
With the support of her friends and family, Connor now works out three times per week. Thanks to her increased focus on fitness and well-being she now finds herself with the energy to spend more time with her loved ones.
To vote for Connor, visit www.facebook.com/silversneakers. Community members may vote once per day.
