(Scroll down farther to see testimonials for our Legacy units!)
We were recently moved by a powerful story shared by Kevin Murphy, Member Experience Director at Lake Anna YMCA, about the life-saving impact of the new HealthBOT blood pressure machine installed this spring at the Y.
Thanks to a generous grant from the Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Foundation—administered by Barberton Community Foundation—the YMCA was able to purchase and install a HealthBOT kiosk to help members monitor their blood pressure regularly.
Kevin was the very first to use the new machine, and what happened next underscores exactly why these tools matter:
“As soon as the kiosk was delivered and set up, I eagerly took my blood pressure, excited to be the first to use it. To my shock, the reading was a staggering 214/105. The thing was, I felt completely fine! Thanks to the advice of my coworkers, I immediately made an appointment with my primary physician. She started me on medication, but within a month, I was admitted to the hospital with sepsis and a life-threatening infection. This was the root cause of my dangerously high blood pressure. I underwent four surgeries in the first week of April and spent a full month in the hospital. Thankfully, I'm back to work now and almost fully recovered.”
Kevin has no doubt about the role the HealthBOT played in alerting him to a silent but serious condition:
“I truly believe that the HealthBOT was a key factor in saving my life. Had I not discovered my incredibly elevated blood pressure thanks to the kiosk, I may not have sought medical attention in time.”
Kevin has been a dedicated YMCA team member for 23 years. This summer, the Barberton YMCA is busier than ever, welcoming 300 kids a week for its Summer Extravaganza programs. We’re proud that our technology plays a small part in supporting community wellness alongside partners like Lake Anna YMCA and BCF.
From all of us: Thank you, Kevin, for sharing your story—and we wish you continued health and strength in your recovery.
Click here for Kevin’s testimonial on the branch Facebook page!