I dream of a Wellness Center where people of all ages and levels of fitness can come together and create a supportive environment where health, both mental and physical, is the goal.

I dream of a Wellness Center where instructors get training and support by physical therapists and hospital staff who really understand how the body works and what to do to prevent injuries and create health.

I dream of a Wellness Center where these caring instructors then safely teach the clients/students to exercise toward stronger muscles, bones, bodies and minds.

I dream of a client who has lost 100 pounds and recovered from cancer.

I dream of clients who could hardly get up off the mat/floor who now move confidently and pain free.

There are many positive life changing stories I dream about. I dream that the students who benefit from these classes give back to the community because of their improved level of fitness, their positive attitudes and their commitment to the Wellness Center and Sutter Lakeside Hospital.

I dream these people help raise money to keep the Wellness Center affordable, donate Curves equipment, help support the hospital community to raise funds for a mobility park, a Mobile Health Services Unit and so many other things the hospital needs.

I dream that these empowered people teach children and grandchildren the healthy habits that they learn and practice at the Wellness Center and that the benefits for our community are far reaching.

I dream not an impossible dream but a dream that has been a reality for 10-plus years right here in Lake County.

Let us not just tilt at windmills but let’s come together to encourage Sutter Lakeside Hospital to continue our Wellness Center.

Sutter Lakeside is a nonprofit organization and nonprofit hospitals and organizations must give back to the community.

Why not support the well-respected and well-attended Wellness Center we have established and supported?

We have helped build the infrastructure that is now in place. Let’s not tear down what we have accomplished.

Support the dream that is a reality right now!

Sutter Lakeside Hospital advertises that “Healthy people are contagious.” It’s a dream I believe in.

Leanne Harvey lives in Lakeport, Calif.