I'm not sure when or how we learned of PFP, but I do recall that Hayden was initially taken to PFP by her dad. He kept telling me about this amazing gym with amazing people that were going to work with Hayden and Jathan. I wondered why he was so hyped on a gym in Frederick....after all, we live 3 miles from Shepherd University Wellness Center, and Hayden had a membership there since she was 10 or 11.
Looking back now, I believe that God KNEW that we were going to need the people of PFP, and He was working through my oft-times un-spiritual husband.
Walking through the doors of PFP is like coming home where you are the most honored guest and everyone has been longing to see you. The love and acceptance is truly palpable.
Although Hayden's attendance was sporadic because of the family schedule during travel sports seasons, she was always thrilled to return to PFP.
I've seen not only a change in her physical capabilities, but in her attitude and sportsmanship, for all activities. There were times when Hayden didn't know how to handle failure, struggles, and her perception of lack of effort from teammates. Her dedication and standards for success never wavered, but the emotional intelligence and maturity just wasn't there. Until PFP.
Andrew and ALL the coaches loved her, accepted her, role-modeled for her, taught her, and coached her. These all became especially poignant when her dad died. She was 13 years old. PFP became a safe place where she could focus physically and mentally. The pre-workout "talk" challenged her cognitively and emotionally.
She has adopted Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." It has appeared on her calendars and is stitched onto her softball glove. It is a reminder that if Christ is leading and guiding, we are in the place that we are meant to be. It may not always be easy, but we are never alone. I am forever grateful to the people of PFP for instilling that in my child and reminding me as a Mom of that precious truth.
