Gabriel “Gabe” Paz’ life changed in a chance encounter in a Publix parking lot 14 years ago.
This member got his start at the Y in the Publix parking lot...yes, that's right...the Publix parking lot.
One day on a routine trip to Publix, Gabe Paz was approached by the New Tampa Y’s Adaptive Coordinator Kathleen “Kass” Pilczuk. Her reason for approaching him was to see if he would be interested in wheelchair basketball at the Y. Gabe was more than willing to give the sport a try. Before he knew it, he had his membership started and he was regularly playing wheelchair basketball and attending the adaptive programs and learned how to swim.
"At the age of 28, it was time for this grown man to lose his floaties! Kass helped me feel confident in the water,” Gabe says. “I am not as fearful. I don't float very well, but as long as I have lane lines close by, I'm good!"
Not long after starting his membership, Gabe began working at the Y at the front desk scanning and greeting members. He thought "working at the Y is something I could really enjoy." With his involvement in the Adaptive Program, it was a natural transition for Gabe to begin working with Kass.
"Kass hired me to help with the swim program and relays. I work with the beginners and help teach them to swim, to float. I help them with their backstroke, to use their arms, legs, and their breathing."
Gabe is their encourager and keeps them going. It's interesting to think how one chance meeting, 14 years ago, in the Publix parking lot made such a change in Gabe's life. "I like the environment at the Y. I have good co-workers, and I enjoy meeting the members. I owe everything to Kass."
Learn more about New Tampa Y's adaptive programs by calling or visiting the Y. The Tampa Y is hiring: check out open positions in child care, wellness, aquatics and apply to be on the team!