Meet Ms. Kay Nye. Originally from Upstate New York (Watkins Glen), Kay made her way down to Pensacola to be closer to her son in Gulf Breeze. With her care taker, Linda, you can see Ms. Kay here at the Bear Levin Studer YMCA at least once a week.
Kay is the oldest member at the YMCA of Northwest Florida. She turned 100 on July 10. She even had - and beat - COVID during her birthday this year!
This year, Kay celebrated her birthday with 95 guests. When asked about how she feels about celebrating her 100th birthday, Kay said, “My mother lived to 103, so I never really even thought about it.” Kay mentioned that her mom was known to walk every day.
A visit to her orthopedic surgeon brought her to the YMCA when they suggested water aerobics, an activity that would be easier on her knees. Kay’s exercise journey began from a young age. She swam in the lake and in her pool, and when she was younger, she also participated in tennis, ice skating, and basketball. In 1991, she participated in a 5K Walkathon and came in firstin her age group.
Outside of the YMCA, Kay enjoys playing bridge and is an avid reader. She reads at least 3 or 4 books a month. Her favorite genre is mystery. She also has a family of squirrels that live in her yard, including a white one named Snow White.
Another fun fact about Ms. Kay:She is musically inclined. She has been playing the piano since she was 9, and she can sing in Latin due to her Catholic upbringing.
Kays reminds us -- Always wear a smile!