My mother is a retired percussionist and played with the Milwaukee Ballet for over 18 years. She studied at Juilliard for her master's program, and her first job took her and my dad to Venezuela for three years. After living in South America, they came back to the states and started a family. While she was pregnant with me, she was in the midst of The Nutcracker season. I swear I came out of the womb and knew Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker by heart. To this day, it remains my favorite ballet. As soon as I was old enough, my sister and I would beg to come to work with her and sit in the break room, listen to music and catch glimpses of the dancers. It was magical to see the pit (where she played), the dancers’ costumes in the seamstresses’ room, the dressing rooms where the dancers would put their makeup on and some backstage props on special occasions. I loved everything about the ballet and felt so proud watching my mom make beautiful music so the ballerinas could dance.
One would think I would have at least tried my hand [read foot] at ballet or some other form of dance, but I was more interested in playing sports as I grew older. I always wanted to be a ballerina, but never pursued it. I dabbled in piano and still enjoy plunking around on the keys. It wasn’t until college that I took my first dance class as an elective. Each week, I looked forward to the day dance fell on. Class provided me a place to learn a new skill, sweat, laugh, smile and shake off stress.
Whenever there is an opportunity to dance, you will see me out on the floor because it brings me so much joy. When I saw Froedtert Hospital was going to be offering ballet class taught by a survivor and an instructor for the Milwaukee Ballet, I was ecstatic! This year, I reached four years since my bone marrow transplant, and this year’s goal is to be more consistent with taking care of my body and, in turn, my mind.
Monica, our instructor, is the sweetest person! She takes time to explain the positions, helps us with our form and uses funny mnemonic devices to help us remember our poses. After the first class, I had a new appreciation of how hard dancers train to make their moves look effortless — and their strength is unparalleled. I have never been more excited to come to a class on a Monday morning! I am learning a new form of dance, gaining strength and confidence. My body doesn’t recover as easily now after treatment and continued maintenance oral chemotherapy. However, after class, I find myself refreshed and ready to conquer the day. I have fulfilled my dream of becoming a ballerina. I am ever so grateful for Monica and the time she takes to give back to her community at Froedtert Hospital.
Share Your Thoughts
Vanessa started dancing to take care of her body and her mind. What do you do to improve your physical and mental health? Share your comments below.
This is amazing! I never knew that about your mom Vanessa! So glad you are able to take advantage of the ballet class at Froedtert :)
Learning to appreciate every day is a gift and you clearly do! May you dance for many years!
Hi Vanessa, what a beautiful and inspiring story! Thank you for sharing. Keep on dancing!
Very well written article, Vanessa. Fun to read about your mom and childhood. I love to dance as well and may follow your inspiration to take dance to supplement my gym time. If not now, when? Continue dancing and keeping your mind and body fit! You are doing great and inspiring many others with your positive attitude and spirit.??