In 2012, I was approached by Laura, an individual that worked part-time with the SKOR/SOAR programs at the Hamilton Area YMCA, to see if I would be interested in teaching Zumba to special populations. Um, yes please! I have met absolutely incredible people while teaching them to dance. I love when the question is asked of me about what is “wrong” with my students, because I can say happily that it doesn’t matter, they come each week, give me their whole hearts. I don’t see them any differently than any other student of mine. To me, it doesn’t matter what disability they have, they are worthy of loving!
The reason for this post in the first place is because on February 23rd of this year, I sadly stopped teaching my once weekly class to kids + adults alike. There were lots of factors into this very difficult decision, but I leave them as their instructor with a whole new perspective on life.
Celebrating Ashley’s birthday at Red Robin in January 2015.
Watching Hope compete in the New Jersey Special Olympics Summer Games in 2015.
Dancing at the Rock Brook School in Princeton.
Look at me, all awkward stance. You’d never know that I position individuals on a routine basis to make them look good in photos!
Last dinner at Red Robin as their instructor on February 23, 2016.
