Great South Bay YMCA 25th Anniversary 5K Run/Walk In Memory of Judi- Honorees
This year commemorates our 25th Anniversary 5k Run/Walk in Memory of Judi. This community event benefits local individuals and families impacted by breast cancer with programs and support services.
Meet our Honoree
Lisa Hoey
The YMCA Staff and Volunteers are honored and excited to recognize Lisa Hoey as this year's 5K Race Honoree. A long-time volunteer and steadfast supporter of the annual YMCA 5K Run For Judi and the Judi Shesh Memorial Foundation, Lisa has been involved with the race since its inception in 2001. For the past 25 years, she has served as the Volunteer Co-Chair. Lisa is a passionate advocate in the fight against breast cancer, and her unwavering dedication has been instrumental in helping the Y raise over $300,000 in proceeds. These funds have provided essential financial support to hundreds of women and families battling breast cancer. Additionally, her efforts have enabled the Y to offer the FREE LIVESTRONG program to our community, provide scholarships for local high school students impacted by cancer, and offer day camp scholarships. A long-time friend of Judi Shesh, Lisa resides in West Islip and is the proud mother of Nicole, who also volunteers each year for Judi’s Run. The YMCA Staff and Volunteers are honored and excited to recognize Lisa Hoey as this year's 5K Race Honoree. A long-time volunteer and steadfast supporter of the annual YMCA 5K Run For Judi and the Judi Shesh Memorial Foundation, Lisa has been involved with the race since its inception in 2001. For the past 25 years, she has served as the Volunteer Co-Chair. Lisa is a passionate advocate in the fight against breast cancer, and her unwavering dedication has been instrumental in helping the Y raise over $300,000 in proceeds. These funds have provided essential financial support to hundreds of women and families battling breast cancer. Additionally, her efforts have enabled the Y to offer the FREE LIVESTRONG program to our community, provide scholarships for local high school students impacted by cancer, and offer day camp scholarships. A long-time friend of Judi Shesh, Lisa resides in West Islip and is the proud mother of Nicole, who also volunteers each year for Judi’s Run.
Inspired by Y Members
Jerry Leo
We celebrate Jerry as she turns 100 years old on April 11th! Jerry joined the YMCA back in 1991 as a Charter Member when husband Dominick (who passed away in 2012) talked her into joining the newly built YMCA. Known for her unwavering commitment to fitness, Jerry is a shining example of living a healthy lifestyle and embodying the mission and values of the YMCA. At 100 years old, she still attends the Y five days a week, participates in a variety of exercise classes, walks the track, and spends quality time with her Y family. She attends the 5K run every year both as a volunteer and participant, and has won medals in her age group several years in a row. Jerry proudly shares that she hasn’t missed a week at the Y in 34 years, and she’s famous for completing 3-minute “planks” in her exercise class! View Video
Methel Gale
A devoted Y member, Methel has courageously battled pancreatic cancer for the past four years. As a committed participant in the Y LIVESTRONG program, she consistently brings a positive attitude and fighting spirit, mentoring others in the class. She constantly shares the message, “We only have today so let’s make the most of it!” Methel, who attends the Y with husband Walter, never misses a session and is a true inspiration to everyone who meets her. Methel also volunteers her time at countless organizations and is an avid musician and church goer. View Video