My Rec Story: Debbie Clinton

My name is Debbie Clinton, and I “rediscovered” the Rec Center after retiring a year and a half ago.  I was a pre-pandemic member in 2019 and part of 2020, and I had really enjoyed attending yoga classes, but I did not return right away once the Rec Center reopened. After recently retiring, I noted I needed to find ways to get out of the house and get active. So I rejoined the Rec Center and started attending BASE and going to the Lazy River. Exercising, socializing, and meeting new people was just what I needed.

Last spring I was injured in a fall resulting in the need for knee replacement surgery. Once I was cleared to start rehab, getting in the Rec Center pool was the best thing I could do, helping me recover and progress ahead of schedule in my rehab. As I progressed in my rehab I returned to the morning BASE class, and connected with other classmates who had been through the surgery. This gave me continued encouragement.

The Rec Center has also offered me more than just exercise and rehab. I recently joined the monthly book club, filled with great discussions and more socialization. In addition to joining the beloved book club, I have found a way to give back by teaching a class on making paper flowers (See page 17 for class dates). Sharing my hobby and passion, and seeing the expressions on the attendees faces when they discover they can make their own beautiful bouquet is priceless to me.

Overall, I very much appreciate the beautiful facility, friendly staff, and opportunities for growth here at the Airway Heights Recreation Center.  I feel it has contributed greatly to my physical health as well mental well-being.


To share a My Rec Story, or nominate a person or business to be spotlighted, email parksandrec@cawh.org using “My Rec Story” or “Community Member Spotlight” in the subject line. Please be sure to provide the person’s name, contact info, and a brief description of the reason for your submission.

My Rec Story: Share your story (or someone you know) of how participation and access to recreational opportunities here in Airway Heights has improved quality of life, health, and social experience. Stories can come from youth participating in sports for the first time, seniors joining a program and making new friends or how hitting the gym has given you new confidence.

COMMUNITY MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Do you know a community member doing great things to represent, improve, and serve Airway Heights? Nominate them to be recognized as the Community Member Spotlight in the next Activity Guide. Nominees can be kids, adults, seniors, businesses, etc.