Meet long time member Janet VanValey. Jan is a musician and a highly regarded conductor. She originally sought out personal training years ago because she noticed she was having trouble with her mobility while performing her career. That is where she found her "perfect match" as she puts it. "Mark understood my limitations and didn't require me to do any exercises that proved to be too difficult or unrealistic. He was a wealth of knowledge while remaining patient and kind." Not only has Jan gained knowledge and awareness of the numerous muscle groups in her body, she has also become increasingly steady with her balance and mobility.
Jan is currently being treated for Multiple Myeloma, which is a type of blood cancer. After being diagnosed, Jan spent two weeks in the hospital, four weeks in an inpatient physical therapy facility and received six weeks of outpatient physical therapy. In the midst of her struggle Mark continued to show up, checking in and even visiting her at local inpatient physical therapy facility. He was a wonderful source of encouragement. Even going on to say "I cannot imagine surviving this without him." She gives credit to Mark for the positive attitude she now possesses in regards to health and fitness. I understand how vital it is to remain active, he "really laid the groundwork" when it came to myself and fitness. Her infectious enthusiasm regarding her personal training experience is apparent and her husband Tom has been training with Mark for some time.
Thank you Janet for the inspiration and positive energy you bring to West Hills!
Member Spotlight: Janet VanValey
