Kansas stroke survivor thankful to be alive after ignoring signs
7 March 2024
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – Numbers are important in dance. The significance changes when it comes to the dancer’s age.
“I’m 73, going on 74 in June,” said Mary Whorton.
Dancing takes Whorton back in time.
“I used to dance on the floor up a storm. I really did. I was a dance freak,” she said, laughing.
Every Monday, you can find her at a Golden Grooves class.
“We’re bringing dance to populations that maybe don’t necessarily get a chance to experience it,” said Regina Klenjoski, artistic director of the Regina Klenjoski Dance Company.
The nonprofit uses the Golden Grooves classes to teach the seniors at Ascension Living HOPE to move.
They stretch, learn choreography, and let their bodies groove.
“It feels good. I mean, it’s good exercise,” said participant Wayne King.
“If you keep moving, your body stays healthy. It makes your brain sharper. It improves your social life, your brain health, and your body,” Klenjoski said.
Each step and spin keeps the dancers vibrant.
“I love coming into HOPE and doing this. It means the world to me,” Whorton said.
The classes remind them age is just a number. The Golden Grooves classes happen every Monday at Ascension Living HOPE.