A Grandmother’s Goal: Learning to Swim at the Y | Stronger Together

Claudia Webb, her granddaughter Brooke Sanders, and Brooke’s other grandmother, Brenda Ezell, never imagined that signing up for swim lessons at the YMCA would not only help them learn an important life skill but also strengthen their family bond and their community.  

Claudia, a Y member as a teen, had enjoyed the social side of the Y—dances, youth programs—but never learned how to swim or thought much about swimming. Now, as a senior, she was determined to face a new challenge and learn to swim with her granddaughter. “I’ve taken swim lessons before, but this time, I’m determined,” Claudia says. 

Brooke, tired of feeling left out during family vacations because she couldn’t swim, decided to make this her goal too. “I didn’t want to be the one sitting out,” Brooke explains. 

Brenda, who grew up in a family with a deep fear of water—passed down from her mother—was ready to break the cycle. “I’m learning to swim at my age,” Brenda says proudly. “Nothing’s holding me back.” 

The three women attended lessons together every Monday morning at Meredith Mathews East Madison YMCA, laughing, supporting each other, and celebrating their progress. For Brooke, the best part wasn’t just learning to swim—it was the time spent with her grandmothers. “It’s been so fun to check in with each other and see how far we’ve come,” she says. 

For Claudia, the highlight was simply getting into the water each week, a small but meaningful victory. For Brenda, it was the joy of learning alongside her family and the supportive environment at the Y. 

“Getting up every Monday and learning with my granddaughter and my friend-in-law—that’s the best part,” Brenda adds with a smile. 

While there were challenges—Claudia dreaded getting into her swimsuit, Brooke hated the post-swim hair routine, and Brenda had to fight for limited parking—the women all agree the most valuable lesson is that it’s never too late to learn something new. “If you’re determined enough, you can learn anything,” Brenda says. 

When asked for advice for others hesitant about learning to swim, their message is clear: Don’t wait, just do it. Claudia believes anyone can learn, no matter their age. “If I can do it, anyone can,” she says. “It’s a great skill to have.” 

Brooke agrees, adding, “The structured lessons build confidence, and that confidence carries over to life, not just the pool.” 

 Reflecting on their journey, the women credit the Y for making it all possible. For Claudia, the Y has been a space to stay active and keep learning. For Brooke and Brenda, it’s a place where they can connect and create memories. 

“The Y gives people of all ages the chance to be involved,” Claudia says. “It’s a great place for seniors like me and for everyone in between.” 

Brooke adds, “The Y was the only place where I felt comfortable bringing my grandmothers to learn.” 

Brenda concludes, “The Y is where communities come together. It’s a place for everyone—young, old, families, individuals.” 

In the end, the three women didn’t just learn to swim—they discovered the power of family, the importance of community, and the endless possibilities of perseverance.

Pictured from left to right: Claudia, Brooke, Brenda