At the YMCA, we believe that health is about so much more than fitness. It's about community, support and the meaningful relationships that lift us up through every stage of life. Few stories reflect this better than the inspiring friendship between Al Aldride and Bill Maish (pictured in the orange shirt)—two veterans who found not just strength and healing, but a deep bond on their wellness journey through the Y.
A Life of Service and a Commitment to Health
Al Aldride, a proud 27-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Vietnam War, began his Y journey at the Benjamin Harrison YMCA and Avondale Meadows YMCA on Indianapolis’ east side. Focused on improving his general health, Al soon became a familiar face in the halls, known for his friendly spirit and commitment to walking up to three miles a day—six days a week.
Meanwhile, Bill Maish, a U.S. Army veteran who served from 1963 to 1966, brings with him an incredible history of fitness. A former marathon runner, Bill has logged over 82,000 miles on his legs. Originally from Kokomo, he moved to Indianapolis after his father returned from World War II and developed a long-standing relationship with the Y, starting with the Central YMCA in downtown Indy when he was just a child.
Wellness, Accountability and Friendship
Both Al and Bill have faced health challenges in recent years. Surgeries, recovery and the natural wear and tear of time might have slowed their pace, but not their spirit. As Al says, “We aren’t out here breaking any records—we’re just trying to stay active and healthy.” And that’s exactly what they do—together.
Now part of a close-knit group of five or six walkers, Al and Bill cherish their time at the Y not just for the exercise, but for the camaraderie. Whether it’s chatting about current events or cheering each other on, their daily walks are filled with laughter, connection and encouragement.
Support Through Life’s Toughest Moments
Al’s story took a difficult turn in December 2024, when he suffered a major accident requiring surgery. Doctors credited his active lifestyle at the Y with speeding up his recovery. But perhaps even more healing than the physical strength was the emotional support he received from his Y family.
“The Y is a place of humanitarians with an excellent staff that cares,” Al reflects. “They are my family.”
Bill has also navigated serious health issues, including open spine surgery that limited his mobility. Though he’s had to pause his track walks, he found refuge in the pool and in the welcoming arms of his Y community. Living right across the street from the OrthoIndy Foundation YMCA, Bill was there on opening day and has made it a daily part of his life ever since—rain or shine.
A Circle of Care
Bill credits several staff members—Marta, Lee, Monic and Pam—with helping him through his journey. One special connection is with Pam, a fellow veteran who quickly became his “bestie.” After his rotator cuff surgery, Pam’s encouragement and guidance helped get him back on track. “She got me back on track,” Bill says with a grateful smile.
No Strangers at the Y
What binds Al and Bill together, and what keeps them coming back every day, is a shared belief in the power of friendship and community.
“There are no strangers at the Y,” Al reminds us. And Bill agrees: “The Y gives me a reason to get out of the house. I meet new people all the time.”
Together, Al and Bill represent everything the Y stands for—strength, connection, resilience and heart. Their story reminds us that while the path to wellness may look different for each person, we are never meant to walk it alone.
Come as you are. Leave stronger—with friends by your side. Welcome to the Y. Where community thrives.
