Port Charlotte, Florida, United States
Meet Jo Lynn Laderach
Specializing in 30 minute movement programs for Downriver, Monroe and Toledo communities
My name is Jo Lynn Laderach. I am a licensed contractor and formally worked in the field of construction. I had a lot of work during the recession / housing crisis fixing up houses so that the banks could put them back on the market. I have a family history in construction. My great grandfather, my grandfather, my father, my two brothers and many uncles and cousins are in the field of construction as well. My passion is in renovating older houses and buildings, including the one that I live in. It's a Dutch Colonial built in 1878 located in Historic Monroe Michigan. My path to Lori's Movin & Grovin movement specialist seemed an unlikely one, but it's like John Lennon said "life is what happens while you are busy making other plans".
My mother has memory problems; at least that's what we are comfortable calling it. After the recommendation of my mother's physician we joined the local senior center. Her doctor said it would do her good to socialize with other seniors and that it would help her memory. My mother didn't want to go alone so I went with her. We both really liked the Movin & Groovin class with Lori. My mom has always liked to sing and dance. Originally, I was just going to help my mom, but I ended up really liking it too.
I could not believe what a work out you can get by Movin & Groovin in your chair, and how much fun it is. There is something about moving and singing with other people that makes you feel good. There is also something about the music that Lori plays. I think because my mom listened to this music when she was young it triggers a feeling of youth in her. A light comes on in her. She smiles, she is silly, she is having fun and she remembers all the words to these songs. It's nice to spend this time with her having fun. I have three older brothers and a little sister and we all take good care of my mom, but I may be the only one who has this kind of enjoyment with her.
I can remember thinking "how can I get a job doing this"? Can you imagine going to work and having fun? Not long after having these thoughts Lori approached me. She said "how would you like to do this for a living?" I said "I would love to!" I think that she was a little surprised at my immediate response.
Since my Master instructor training and primary group exercise certification, I have been traveling to different independent and assisted living facilities. I am so excited that this would has opened up for me. I love seeing that light turn on in my audience, the smiles and joy is uplifting. I love the look on their faces when they haven't heard a song for years and yet they remember the words. I am so blessed to be doing this work.