The staff and members of the Oscar Lasko YMCA coordinated a caravan last week that included the mayor, police, family, and friends to celebrate the 100th birthday of longtime member Mary Atkins.

The caravan drove by Atkins’s home in West Chester, honking horns and singing Happy Birthday. Some people shared messages from the sidewalk in front of her home, which was decorated for the special day. Another several dozen YMCA members created videos congratulating Atkins on reaching her centennial.

“Mary is truly a one-of-a-kind, special woman who brightens the day of everyone she meets – both in and out of our Y,” said Steffani Witmer, who served as Executive Director of the Oscar Lasko YMCA for many years and recently became Executive Director of the Lionville Community YMCA. “We couldn’t let such a milestone in Mary’s life go by without her knowing how much she means to each of us.”

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Atkins worked out at the Oscar Lasko YMCA three days a week. She is an inspiration to all who cross paths with her.

Despite the YMCA being closed, Atkins hasn’t let this pandemic slow her down. She exercises for 20 minutes four times a day on her new treadmill and elliptical and plans to return to the YMCA when it is permitted to reopen.

“I feel 20 years younger than I actually am,” said Atkins. “I think it’s because I’ve always been so physically active my whole life.”

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