Ageism refers to stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) toward others or ourselves based on age. It negatively impacts our health and well-being, our financial security, and the economy. It exists in many forms, influencing everything from personal interactions to public policy, and impacts us at every age.
For Ageism Awareness Day, observed every year on October 9th, our community is sharing stories of strength, power, and inspiration. Read their words below, and if you are inspired, share your own story.
Janei's Story
Unknown, Richmond VA
The numerous ways that I have learned to care for people make me feel strong and powerful. Healthcare professions are frequently the first role that comes to mind when someone thinks of occupations that include taking care of people. This idea is what started my career in long-term care services. I was passionate about serving older adults and committed to making a career of it. However, pivoting to working in affordable housing has been a fulfilling career option that has allowed me to care for people in meaningful ways that feel very fitting to my skill set and interest. When I started out, at Enterprise I was a resident services manager that oversaw community-based services and initiatives for three 62-and-older apartment communities; this was incredibly gratifying work.
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Erica's Story
49, Richmond VA
Erica is the owner and founder of Endorphasm- an all-movements-welcome gym community in Southside, Richmond serving all people who like to feel a mind and body connection through movement. In her first lifetime, Erika was known as Jungle Grrl, a WWE wrestler and she made headlines on stages all across the globe. She is also a dynamic public speaker, inspirational life coach, and her fighting spirit isn't isolated to the wrestling ring. Erika was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer in 2020 and will live out her remaining time on earth with this ugly truth. Erica has found renewed passion for coaching others by establishing the Endorphasm Foundation- a non-profit organization serving the cancer community through inspiration in movement and mind/body connection. Erica has turned a terrible diagnosis into a selfless foundation, giving those living without hope an opportunity to find the will to fight again. I have seen firsthand the power of community by being a part of the Endorphasm gym and feel inspired every morning when I walk into the red room (our gym nickname). I can only hope to look at life with the optimism and faith that radiates through Erica as she fights her darkest opponent yet. She is an inspiration to everyone she meets and is still the toughest lady in the ring.
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Franci's Story
53, South Africa
Franci just completed a bicycle ride traveling 1140 miles in just 2 weeks. It was just her and her partner taking on this trek from the northern part of Namibia down to the east coast of South Africa. The longest part of the journey was through the Namib desert! On bicycles. She shared that there were times that she cried, but then dried the tears, got back on and kept paddling. This kind of determination and physical effort blows my mind.
Volunteers' Story
60+, Northern Virginia
I am shining a light on the volunteers I supervise, working in a volunteer program. They work with an assigned client (and sometimes 2 or 3), driving to their homes and helping each one keep their monthly finances in order, with bills paid correctly and on time. Most of the volunteers are 60 and over, and some are in their eighties. Some of them have jobs. Some volunteer other places. The things they do to help their client, and their community absolutely floor me. A volunteer recently moved out of our area and called to ask if she would be "allowed" to continue helping people in our planning district who lived closest to her! I am encouraged to embrace what I can do as I grow older.
Kiersten's Story
55, Henrico County VA
"What makes me feel strong?" How about, "What enriches and empowers me?" Throughout my life course, I've sought relationships with those who are wiser and more experienced than me, elders. As I age, I intentionally make connections with youngers – so that I might be that for someone younger than myself. The reciprocity of these meaningful connections not only enriches and empowers me, but those I'm in relationship with.