Local resident finds encouragement at the Y

Melissa Eich said people have noticed she is a happier person after losing weight and keeping it off.
Eich takes part in a wide range of activities at the Marshalltown YMCA-YWCA, including deep water aerobics, cardio and the EGYM.
Through the years, the Marshalltown resident has lost 85 pounds and has kept it off.
“I knew I needed to get the weight off,” Eich said. “I knew I needed to get healthy.”
She loves the culture of the 6 a.m. water exercise class led primarily by Cat Campbell Currier. Eich also fills in as instructor of the group affectionately known as the Bobbers.
“Our 6 a.m. group is like a family,” Eich said. “We support each other on everything.”
She is also proud to complete 5K walks, like she did recently at Oktemberfest.
Eich’s best advice for others looking to get on track is to keep at it.
“Don’t give up and keep trying,” Eich said. “It helps to find people that encourage you.”