14 - The Oakville Beaver, Friday February 16, 2007 www.oakvillebeaver.com On building strength a personal battle with osteoporosis G lowing with health. That's the best way to describe this articulate and energetic artist, psychotherapist and avid YMCA member - Charmaine Driver. But just two short years ago, a medical exam showed that Charmaine faced a diagnosis of osteopenia, and then, one year later, her doctor said that this had elevated to high-risk osteoporosis. Charmaine's case was not a typical osteoporosis situation as she was active and took care of herself. Yes, her exercise regimen was heavily focused on cardiovascular activity, but the pieces still did not fit. More tests revealed the answer a tumour on Charmaine's parathyroid gland, which was robbing her bones of calcium. Surgery removed Charmaine's tumour in September of 2006, but she was not out of the woods yet and still had osteoporosis. "The specialist said that if I worked hard this osteoporosis might be reversible. That's where my `angel', Marina, came in." Marina became Charmaine's personal trainer at the YMCA of Oakville and together they set out to conquer Charmaine's condition. "Marina is so diligent and concerned with her clients. She puts so much time and effort into her research and is always ensuring a proper program." Marina designed a program for Charmaine that focused on strengthening her muscles and bones. "My diagnosis totally reframed the way that I work out. I was always diligent with cardio, but didn't push myself with weights. I wanted the expertise of a trainer. I didn't trust that I would have the determination to push myself like I knew I needed to. "I believe that the body has a tremendous capacity to heal itself. I didn't want medication," said Charmaine. A busy, vibrant person with a full life and career, Charmaine made her health a priority and visits the Y three to five times each week. "I schedule exercise in as part of my day, just like I do my art. 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Sears Club Points do not apply to taxes, installation charges (where applicable) or protection agreement charges 0 % interest'til January 2010 or Collect Points** * don't think that I am an overly organized person people would not describe me that way. It just feeds my soul." In December of 2006, Charmaine had another bone density test, and was overjoyed to find that her osteoporosis had been reversed no mean feat. She now encourages everyone to have their regular medical check-ups. "I was very lucky to get a diagnosis at the stage that I did. I hadn't had a medical (check-up) in five years. It's so important to go yearly." All of this has given Charmaine a new appreciation for quality of life and health. "It gave me more empathy for people who are held back by physical handicaps. If you go a month without exercise, you don't feel good. I like that I can pick up large canvasses." To `glow with health' is not an easy feat -- but it can be done. Take some advice from Charmaine Driver. Have your yearly medical check-up. And make your health a priority. For more information about membership at the YMCA of Oakville, visit www.ymcaofoakville.com, or call the Y at 905-845-3417. We build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. -- Submitted by the Oakville YMCA. Call 1-866-506-7779 Special Pre-Season Event! $ 400-500off Installed Carrier® central air conditioners and heat pumps 13 to 16 S.E.E.R. Central air conditioning Series: 46120, 46130, 46140, 46652 Heat pump Series: 46320, 46340, 46391 10-year parts warranty on compressors; details in store 5-year parts and 5-year labour warranty on all other parts; details in store Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio Region has Internet cure for families seeking doctor Local residents looking for a family doctor can now use the Region's website to assist in their search. The site provides up-to-date contact information about newly-recruited family physicians who are accepting patients across Halton. 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