CLIENT PROFILES!
Ginnie
Wrapping up October's Client Appreciation Month with a big CONGRATULATIONS to Ginnie!
Seen here on the left with her afternoon WOW crew, Ginnie exemplifies determination and a smart attitude towards her training. We've loved working with her because of the energy she brings into the room and the genuine care she shows for those around her. You can count on Ginnie! You can also count on her to totally rock medicine ball slams!!! :D |
Art
Art captures a great moment of team bonding at one of
Mass Attack Roller Derby's home games! |
Congratulations to Art, ShockYard’s September Client of the Month!
Art has caught the gym bug big time! We love his enthusiasm to get in to ShockYard and move serious amounts of metal. Every week he sets a new personal record whether it’s large or small and it’s an awesome thing to witness! Art has also begun volunteering his time as a photographer for our local Mass Attack Roller Derby league’s home bouts. Check out some of his work below! Thank you Art for being a part of the ShockYard family! From Art Himself: "I originally posted this in Facebook's Interstitial Lung Disease group, and have lightly revised for ShockYard... This is a big public "Thank You" to Kaia Hamilton-Stevens and Laura Vineyard. Meeting Kiai here and reading her posts here and in her personal group have helped keep me motivated during what's been a first in my life transformation from sedentary to gym rat. All my life, doctors have been telling me to lose weight and exercise more. Yeah, right. Even being threatened with the need for a lung transplant and having to lose a lot of weight to qualify didn't, by itself, do the trick. Got me kind of started, but old habits were easier. It wasn't until after I saw how Kaia attacked the problem in her own style and simply did not let stuff stand in the way of becoming and staying fit, and then went beyond that to share (check out her awesome Zumba with oxygen tanks dance video on her FB page) and have the guts to tell the world about it that it started to all click in my head. At about the same time, while there was still some snow on the ground, through Betsy Fitzgerald-Campbell, I met up with Laura, co-owner and ace personal trainer at a local (Plymouth MA) gym, Shockyard Fitness & Social Club. Laura and her partner, Casey, didn't bat an eye when we talked about working out with my required oxygen tanks. Since then, I've been in the gym usually at least twice a week, for going on 6 months, a life first for me. Laura has created workout after challenging workout If I don't walk too fast, I can now go all day, most days without oxygen and keep my numbers in the 90s. (Oxygen saturation numbers, a measure of how efficient your longs are at pumping oxygen into your bloodstream -- for most people, it's 98-99% all of the time.) My resting heart rate is down. I'm stronger, have lost about 25 pounds and am continuing to trend downwards, and have found that my whole attitude and energy level has changed in a positive way. I'm not sure I can ever beat ILD, which is a chronic disease, but I may have figured out the way I'm going to fight it and live with it. On my terms. With a little help from my friends. Thank you!" |
Maryellen
Congratulations to Maryellen, ShockYard’s August Client of the Month!
Maryellen is our client of the month because she does the diligent work of sticking to her workouts every week and always being game to learn new skills. So much of the fitness world is flashy quick challenges or fad this or trend that, which can be exciting but these high-intensity fitness programs don’t build long-term, healthy movement habits. Maryellen exemplifies those hardworking athletes that have made fitness a continuous part of their lives and all the while she’s bringing positive encouraging energy for everyone around her. Thank you Maryellen for being a part of the ShockYard family! |
Front Maryellen: "Sometimes when people come into your life, it is meant to be! I first met Laura and Casey two years ago at Relay for Life. While walking laps, my friend Colleen and I happened upon their campsite. The energy and excitement for fitness these girls exuded was contagious and, a little scary for me. LOL. Fast forward about 10 months and I ran into them again! This time at a Relay for Life meeting where they were volunteering their time to organize and teach a “Flash Mob” dance to the committee and team members for our Relay in June. It was so much fun! Ran into them yet one more time after Relay at the Farmer’s Market and I told them I would be calling! So finally in August of last year, I picked up the phone and made an appointment.
Meeting Laura and Casey and joining ShockYard Fitness has changed my life both physically and mentally. I am definitely out of my element in a gym, but at ShockYard the atmosphere is one of fun! My strength and stamina have noticeably improved and for that I am forever grateful. Each and every person I have met here is on their own journey and there is no competition. I actually love being there with people that are far beyond my fitness level. The encouragement I have received from other members is heartwarming. Casey and Laura always have a smile on their face and a story to tell. I spend a lot of time laughing! I have a long way to go on this journey, but I have come a long way too! Working on my fitness will always be a part of my life now. Many thanks to Laura, Casey, and all the members I have worked out with. You are all truly inspiring."
Meeting Laura and Casey and joining ShockYard Fitness has changed my life both physically and mentally. I am definitely out of my element in a gym, but at ShockYard the atmosphere is one of fun! My strength and stamina have noticeably improved and for that I am forever grateful. Each and every person I have met here is on their own journey and there is no competition. I actually love being there with people that are far beyond my fitness level. The encouragement I have received from other members is heartwarming. Casey and Laura always have a smile on their face and a story to tell. I spend a lot of time laughing! I have a long way to go on this journey, but I have come a long way too! Working on my fitness will always be a part of my life now. Many thanks to Laura, Casey, and all the members I have worked out with. You are all truly inspiring."
Kathy
Congratulations to Kathy, ShockYard's July Client of the Month!
From Kathy: "I joined ShockYard when I was about to finish physical therapy and did not want to slide backwards. I knew that the Roller Derby personal trainers with PHDs in science would be a perfect fit! One of my daughters kept raving about Laura and Casey at ShockYard, so I knew what to expect. This was a great decision, and a first for me. Laura and Casey have incorporated all of the key PT exercises that I had been doing, specifically neck, knee, and core-strengthening exercises. I’m a senior citizen with a torn meniscus in my knee and two fused vertebrae in my neck that had prohibited me from doing activities, yet they are able to create routines especially for me. My lower back is even stronger, and now I can mow the grass up a narrow, steep incline and shovel snow like the Energizer bunny. My grandchildren are amazed at my muscles, and my children are proud of my new-found energy! Having a shared personal trainer helps you to do everything correctly, which is so important. There is lively conversation, encouragement from other clients, and an atmosphere that is totally fun. You leave there enlightened, invigorated, motivated, and definitely looking forward to the next time!" From Us: Kathy may have been new to the gym scene when she joined ShockYard, but she learns fast and has become an integral part of the family here. She has made such fantastic strides in her strength, coordination, and balance that awarding her Client of the Month was a no-brainer! Kathy brings great energy to the gym because even when she’s working hard on her own routine she’s always got a friendly smile and greeting for her fellow gym members. Thank you Kathy for all that you do!! |
Nancy H.
Congratulations to Nancy, ShockYard's June Client of the Month!!
"After the long winter of 2014, I was 78 years old, my muscles were wasting, and I was depressed to suddenly feel old - physically. I started at ShockYard in August 2015, two times a week. I am so grateful to Laura and Casey and this great program. I have been able to gain and maintain physical strength, making it possible to keep up my active lifestyle, specifically mega-gardening!" -Nancy |
Nancy is a true credit to the principle that lifelong movement fosters long-term health. Long winters notwithstanding, she’s either out swimming in Boot Pond or gardening up a storm. Because of those activities, she has exceptional mobility and coordination. Her flat-foot, full-depth squats are the envy of us ShockYard trainers for sure! We’re so proud to be a part of Nancy’s mission to stay gardening and stay active generally. Thank you Nancy for being a part of the ShockYard family!!
Julie and Andrew
Congratulations to Julie and Andrew, our April and May Clients of the Month!
This hilarious duo has been doing a great job of keeping up with life, taking care of their new wee munchkin Harrison (official ShockYard shop baby), and getting into the gym. We love working with these guys because they always bring the laughs. Thank you for being a part of the ShockYard crew! From the mouths of Julie and Andrew: Shockyard is so much more than a gym to us- the people there are like family! Casey and Laura provide just the right mix of workouts that are challenging, motivating, and fun! Their passion and dedication to what they do keeps them at the forefront of changing trends in health and wellness. And their positive attitudes are infectious! We also enjoy the social aspect of ShockYard. With both of our families living out of state, it has been fun meeting new friends at different events set up by Casey and Laura outside of the gym as well. Each week we look forward to seeing all of our ShockYard friends and that has made all the difference in helping us to be consistent- and the flexibility of the Workout of the Week (WoW) format is perfect for us and our growing family! |
Cheryl and Donna
Congratulations to Cheryl and Donna ShockYard’s joint Clients of the Month for March 2016!
Cheryl and DK not only work hard in every class, but they also help create a wonderful and welcoming atmosphere. Cheryl is a powerhouse on the pushups and DK throws epic medicine ball slams and all the while they’re always right there ready with encouragement for their fellow classmates. We are so grateful to have them as a part of the ShockYard family. Thank you for all that you do! From Cheryl herself: “Shocked myself and went to “this gym” with a co-worker who didn’t want to go alone… I’ve stuck around for about a year now and LOVE it! I love the comradery, high fives, challenging and ever-changing workouts…the social and community events rock as well. I know I’ve gotten stronger and my endurance is much better. Shock Yard is the best and I am always encouraging family and friends to come..I know if they walked through that door, they would be as hooked as I am…now if I could only do a chin-up…..soon, very soon….” -Cheryl P. |
From Donna herself:
“WoW, love the honor, but Cheryl deserves it more, for getting me there in the first place!
So, not being a big fan of a lot of these newfangled gyms, or classes where everyone has to dance around and follow the leader, and being the sceptic I am, when Cheryl starting going to ShockYard and said “I think you would like this”, I must say I was more than a bit hesitant. But like the dutiful wife I am I agreed to come along. All I know is that I wished I would had come to ShockYard instead of investing thousands of dollars on a chiropractor.
Laura and Casey have put together a fitness operation that is exactly what I need. The gym is an open, friendly and inviting atmosphere, small classes where you can get the attention you need, adaptive options if you are unable to do certain exercises, caring people, they push everyone to be the best at whatever the challenge is, but no crazy pressure. Laura and Casey are committed to the community and bringing people together not only at the gym but in outside social settings, which are a lot of fun! High 5’s and encouraging each other is a big part of creating the team atmosphere that you get there. The Team of 2, provide motivating, inspiring, challenging and fun workouts. You never know what they have in store! Laura and Casey usually has some crazy dance moves or stories to share to make the time past quicker during the workouts. I find them both entertaining, which is important to me, and always look forward to their tales and sassy starfishes.
I personally have found that when I miss a few days my back seizes up, and I need to be there. I am getting stronger, am more motivated, have more energy, and SHOCKINGLY enough, enjoy going to work out there!
I am proud to be part of the ShockYard team and am thankful that Cheryl encouraged me to give it a try!
Thanks for the honor, and is there a crown?”
-Donna K.
“WoW, love the honor, but Cheryl deserves it more, for getting me there in the first place!
So, not being a big fan of a lot of these newfangled gyms, or classes where everyone has to dance around and follow the leader, and being the sceptic I am, when Cheryl starting going to ShockYard and said “I think you would like this”, I must say I was more than a bit hesitant. But like the dutiful wife I am I agreed to come along. All I know is that I wished I would had come to ShockYard instead of investing thousands of dollars on a chiropractor.
Laura and Casey have put together a fitness operation that is exactly what I need. The gym is an open, friendly and inviting atmosphere, small classes where you can get the attention you need, adaptive options if you are unable to do certain exercises, caring people, they push everyone to be the best at whatever the challenge is, but no crazy pressure. Laura and Casey are committed to the community and bringing people together not only at the gym but in outside social settings, which are a lot of fun! High 5’s and encouraging each other is a big part of creating the team atmosphere that you get there. The Team of 2, provide motivating, inspiring, challenging and fun workouts. You never know what they have in store! Laura and Casey usually has some crazy dance moves or stories to share to make the time past quicker during the workouts. I find them both entertaining, which is important to me, and always look forward to their tales and sassy starfishes.
I personally have found that when I miss a few days my back seizes up, and I need to be there. I am getting stronger, am more motivated, have more energy, and SHOCKINGLY enough, enjoy going to work out there!
I am proud to be part of the ShockYard team and am thankful that Cheryl encouraged me to give it a try!
Thanks for the honor, and is there a crown?”
-Donna K.
Dottie M.
Congratulations to Dottie M.., ShockYard's January 2016 Client of the Month!
Dottie is ShockYard’s Client of the Month because she has transformed herself into an exercise and walking fanatic! Hitting the gym twice a week and walking outside every day in the wee hours with her partner-in-crime, Dee, she inspires the folks around her to stay moving and stay motivated. Cheers to you, Dottie, and all the smiles you bring to ShockYard! From Dottie herself: In 2014 when I started working out at Shockyard it had been many years since I had followed any kind of physical fitness routine. I was nervous that I would a) drop out or b) die of embarrassment. Casey and Laura made sure that neither one happened. They guided me through a round of personal training which helped me feel confident enough to join Strength Training Classes twice a week. Those classes are the most fun I have ever had doing physical fitness, as well as being very beneficial to my over all well-being. I am stronger than I have been in decades, and my posture and muscle-tone are greatly improved. I’m currently walking at least 2 miles every day, and doing the morning exercise class, and I look forward to both activities, even when they are (very) early in the morning. When I realize that I now have a real desire to keep in shape – I shock myself! |
Julie H.
Congratulations to Julie H., ShockYard's December 2015 Client of the Month!
Though she may be but little, she is fierce! Julie keeps us laughing at the gym with her cheeky sayings and boundless energy. Not a lot of folks can blast through as many exercises as she can in an hour and still bounce out the door on her way out. In addition to training at the gym this year, Julie was also an integral part of our Gladiator Training Grounds Team. Thank you Julie for being a part of the ShockYard family!! From Julie herself: Firstly I would like to thank Laura and Casey for crowning me "Miss December". I joined ShockYard because I didn't like the traditional gym set, and I was looking for something different that kept me engaged and motivated. With ShockYard, that's exactly what I got, a positive friendly place where you are encouraged not only by Laura and Casey, but by all the other wonderful clients they have. |
Mel S.
Congratulations to Mel!
Mel is ShockYard’s November Client of the Month because she lights up the gym with her positive energy and enthusiasm! She’s always game for wacky new drills from agility ladders to hedgehogs, which inspires us to push our creativity in program design. She makes ShockYard a wonderful place to work and workout. Thank you for all that you do! From Mel herself: "Casey & Laura are my fitness angels sent from heaven! Fitness has always been a passion and healthy outlet for me. Then life through me a curve ball and myself along with fitness got put on hold. When the time had come to get back at it was timid to jump back in with both feet. Laura, Casey and the ShockYard peeps welcomed me with open arms. They have created a "HaPPy fitness place" that is craZy fun with contagious energy! They pay attention and give you the motivation to move your mountain while being aware of your limits and past injuries so your fitness continually moves forward. I had seen this quote that said "I am in my own little world but it's OK because they know me there". That's how I feel at ShockYard. It has been a gift & a blessing." |
Ari M.
Congratulations to Ari M., ShockYard's October Client of the Month!
Ari gets a gold star for practically perfect attendance, no small feat when you're heading to a 7AM class three times a week!!! Due to her diligence she has made mad gains in strength and balance (check her out on the stability ball <--). We love working with Ari because she's so kind and fun, and she might just show up to workout in a light-up fairy costume when you least expect it! Thank you for everything you bring to the ShockYard. :D From Ari herself: "What an honor! I had no idea how to exercise before. I just ran on the treadmill begrudgingly. In joining group strength training, I realized how crucial it is to honor all major muscle groups. To successfully do exercises I was pretty sure I couldn't do, then to have encouragement from Casey and Laura to excel at them even further, is tremendous. (Not to mention support from my girls Dee and Dottie.) In conclusion, thanks to ShockYard I'm more motivated, more positive and have more self confidence. I laugh, I lift, I love it. Thank you!!" |
September 2015 - ShockYard Olympics
Peter M.
Congratulations to Peter M., ShockYard's August Client of the Month!
Working with Peter is fun because he is so game to try new things, and he approaches any obstacle with a laugh. Flexibility might not be the most exciting element of exercise, but it is key to living well. Not only has Peter made great progress on his lifts because of all his hard work, but he has really improved in overall mobility. He may not be a gym rat by nature, but he seems to have caught the bug! Thank you for being a part of the ShockYard family! (Keep working on your 3-point towel throw.) ;) From Peter himself: Why do I workout? I enjoy the results of exercise – more energy, better focus, self-esteem, and general benefits of getting fit. I even enjoy exercise – once I actually do it. The problem has always been motivation. I get enthusiastic about a new gym or program or type of exercise and then lose motivation. At the ShockYard, that does not happen. Laura and Casey keep me on target, keep on encouraging me, and continually modify my workout. I have never stuck with an exercise program as long as I have at ShockYard. |
July 2015 - ShockYard's Relay for Life Team!
Shandi
Congratulations to Shandi, ShockYard's June Client of the Month!
Shandi is ShockYard’s Client of the Month for June because she inspires us. All the parents out there know how tough it can be to wrangle the kids and still make time to exercise. Shandi makes that time and because of her commitment, she’s showing great improvements in strength. We love having her in class because she works hard and keeps everyone laughing at the same time. Read on to hear more from the amazing woman herself! From Shandi herself: Why do I like to workout? A couple of months ago I began to think, "I like to move, freely without restriction. I am fortunate to have been born with full function of my extremities. Then why do I find myself, approaching 45, with 3 young children and find movement a struggle? The answer took a few days but I realized as my children grew I focused on myself less. My day had revolved around their needs and wants and not my own. Not my own in a way most parents need and that is self care. Taking care of yourself so you can function as the parent/human you want to be. It all fell into place after that. The same day I talked to a friend who raved about ShockYard, I was online and their information kept popping up. I signed up online and was greeted at the door with bright beautiful smiles. What has been key to my love of ShockYard and the workouts is the positive environment. I know you may hear that a lot but at ShockYard there is a genuine respect and appreciation for everyone's physical journey. They are a social club in the best possible way. I feel motivated, accepted and challenged! Sweating isn't so bad when you are laughing and Hi-fiving your way through it. |
Lynda M.
Congratulations to Lynda, ShockYard's April Client of the Month!
Lynda is our Client of the Month for April because we want to celebrate her dedication and the progress she has made from all of her hard work. Even with a busy work schedule this month, she's regularly been coming in for training at 6AM to make sure she gets her workouts done, and she's always challenging herself to take her exercises to the next level. If "Consistency is King" in fitness, Lynda has been queen of the gym this month! Here's what Lynda has to say about training at the ShockYard: I’ve always hated working out. I’ve always enjoyed being active. But as the years went by and life got in the way I found being a weekend warrior was not enough to keep me in shape. Eventually I became less and less active heading towards the land of the sloth. Then I met Casey and Laura at a rotary event. Shortly thereafter I became a client at Shockyard Fitness. It has been 8 months. I am nowhere near where I want to be, but I will get there. I find inspiration not only from Laura and Casey but from many of the other clients. I look forward to strengthening my relationships with all those associated with The Club. Mostly I look forward to building on what I have already accomplished. “The voice in your head that says that you can’t do this is a liar.” ~ Unknown. |
Jane H.
Congratulation to Jane, ShockYard's March Client of the Month!
Working with Jane is delightful because of her inspiring, try-anything spirit. She’s new to the gym world but that doesn't stop her from jumping right in and giving every workout her all. Outside of the ShockYard Jane has been cultivating her artistic side and encouraging others to join her on the creative ride. Just check out her sweet ShockYard-inspired Chucks! :) Thank you Jane for all that you do! Why Jane Loves Working Out: Well, if I'm the client of the month, Laura and Casey are the trainers of the century! I've never liked working out, though I've tried just about everything, but I actually look forward to going to the ShockYard. These women are so kind and competent and fun, I always feel great when I'm there and for a long while after I leave. They know how to create a personalized workout that is both doable and challenging, and they pay close attention to the areas I want to work on most, especially my balance. They change the activities often so it never gets boring. I've never felt better physically and I am so grateful to the ShockYard. It feels wonderful to take care of myself and to have such encouragement in doing it. ShockYard is the best thing to happen to me in years! |
Mike W.
Congratulations to Mike, ShockYard's February Client of the Month!
We love training Mike because of his tireless determination in the gym. Mike gives 110% at every workout and still leaves each session with a smile. He came to us already having great form and balance from his job at Fred Astaire Dance Studio, and he has made impressive gains in his strength in a short time due to his hard work. Why Mike loves working out: I am the manager as well as an instructor at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Plymouth. I originally started working out at the Shockyard because I wanted to be able to perform a lift in a ballroom dance routine. I came to Casey and Laura, told them my vision for the lift (which they translated into muscle groups) and they started me on a personal training program. Because Casey and Laura make their programs interesting, challenging and entertaining, I came to enjoy working out on a regular basis. Now I lift people all the time. Even when I'm not dancing with them. Thanks Shockyard! |
Marie D.
Congratulations to Marie, ShockYard's January Client of the Month!
We admire Marie because she's always game to try new things and inspires those nearby to come along for the ride. In addition to working hard at the ShockYard and being a skater for Mass Attack Roller Derby, she is a tireless campaigner for dog rescue groups and in fact organized the inaugural Kickball for the Pups Fundraiser this past summer. Thank you Marie for all that you do! Why Marie loves working out: The reason I love working out is because during that time, I really get to see how strong I have become. For most of my life, I’ve struggled with body image issues. Going to ShockYard and participating in the group workouts and derby boot camps has helped me to really embrace and appreciate my strength and power that my body is capable of. The roller derby boot camps have helped me skate better and hit harder! Working out at ShockYard with likeminded people who genuinely enjoy seeing each other succeed and grow stronger, both physically and mentally, has truly been one of the best things I have done for myself. Setting goals based on strength and healthfulness instead of a number on a scale has changed my life for the better. |
Dee D.
Congratulations to Dee, ShockYard's December Client of the Month!
We love the energy and sassy quips Dee brings to our morning boot camps. She kills it on med ball slams with her signature warrior cry and pushes through all the side planks we do (even if they might not be her favorite). ;) Outside of the gym Dee is a great business networker with the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, the BNI Business Generators, and Plymouth Sunrise Rotary. If you want to know what's going on in Plymouth, ask Dee! Direct from Dee herself: Hi, I am an active 66 year young woman, entrepreneur. I created Simply Soothing Sanctuary 12 years ago and make my living doing massage and shamballa reiki. Working out has always been a part of my life. Sometimes more, sometimes less! When my last gym closed I floundered for awhile before meeting Laura and Casey, owners of ShockYard Fitness, at a BNI Visitors Day. After checking out their place and their energy I signed up for Boot Camp three mornings a week. This has been just what I needed to get myself back into the flow of working out. The hour flies by (most of the time!) and the girls keep changing it up so you get an all around workout. The recent Holiday Challenge is putting back into place my daily walking practice and challenging myself to do it in uncertain weather has me finding new ways and walks. My goal is to remain active and build up strength and endurance as I move into the winter of my life. |
Roy Z.
Congratulations to Roy, ShockYard's Client of the Month!
Roy brings a smile and a hilarious story to every workout. He has made great progress in his strength and balance over the nine months of training with us. Outside of the gym Roy is highly active in the community, giving his time to Plymouth Sunrise Rotary, No Place for Hate, and his church. Thank you Roy for all you do! Why Roy loves working out: "I like to work out at ShockYard Fitness & Social Club because of the can-do attitude the instructors instill in all of their clients. They make each week's fitness workout FUN. Laura and Casey, my fitness instructors have put me in a better healthy place than I was almost a year ago." |
Kris M.
Congratulations to Kris, our October Client of the Month! Not only can Kris pull off crazy no-hand cartwheels, she's often a top finisher in our monthly challenges and has recently set out to join the ranks of Mass Attack Roller Derby. She always brings a laugh to boot camp, and we'll miss her when she moves off to the Big City (Boston) next month.
Why Kris loves working out: "Working out is a daily reminder that true strength and power lie within me. Each workout signifies a goal attained and a new milestone reached. I have increased my physical strength, but more importantly, mentally I am stronger than ever. And of course I have met some fantastic and inspirational people through ShockYard along the way!" |
Kara P.
We would like to congratulate our September client of the month, Kara! Kara tackles even the toughest workouts with enthusiasm and a little sass, not to mention she ran a 10k on what seemed like the hottest day of the year, and she was the winner of our August plank challenge! (4 minutes and 55 seconds!)
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Susan O.
Congratulations to Susan, the ShockYard Client of the Month! Susan was our first client to join when we opened up last January. She's a beast in boot camp and always a joy to work with. Thanks for being awesome!
Linda S.
We here at the ShockYard would like to say a big congratulations to Linda, our July Client of the Month! Linda brings her A-game to every boot camp, Zumba class, and Community Service Run and still finds time to sing with Persephone's Daughters and do spin classes. She also raised the most money out of our Relay for Life team!
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