When you meet Don and Marcee Suderman, one thing becomes clear right away: they have zero intention of letting age be an excuse.
Travel, family, and staying active are at the center of their lives, and they’re committed to doing what it takes to keep exploring the world together.
“We just want to try to stay young and mobile. We enjoy traveling, and we want to continue to do so.”
Don and Marcee first came to Natural Wellness Physiotherapy to work with Dr. Courtney, and now they see Dr. Kiersten monthly to maintain their strength, mobility, and confidence. We always look forward to their visits—not just because they work hard, but because we love hearing about their adventures, their family, and life out on their acreage.
“We have 10 grandkids!” they share proudly. And staying active is a big part of being able to keep up with them.
Walking is their go-to way to stay fit -“with some mild jogging” - especially since they live in the country and get to enjoy the scenery. Don also loves heading into the Y to lift weights. Of course, like any committed exercisers, they have their preferences. Marcee admits, laughing, that her least favorite activity is “clams,” while Don says his is dry needling - although he adds, “I agree that it helps.”
Their desire to stay mobile has taken them some remarkable places. In fact, one of their proudest recent accomplishments was “hiking up Machu Picchu” this past October. Not many people get to say that—let alone at a stage in life when many are slowing down.
Looking ahead, Don’s goal is to “stay physically fit” at 71 so he can continue caring for their acreage, yard, 40 roses, and greenhouse.
Marcee’s next milestone is working toward doing a 5K again—“even if I have to walk some of it.”
Their journey hasn’t been without challenges. Don suffered a back injury in January 2024 and came into NWP using a walker. “Courtney and Kiersten have helped me return to a full active life,” he said.
Marcee has dealt with scoliosis, chronic back problems, and knee arthritis. She shared that Dr. Courtney “prodded me to get my first knee replacement, which has been life changing,” and that Kiersten continues to keep her active and improving.
Through it all, their family plays a powerful role in keeping them motivated. “Our family keeps challenging us to continue to stay active,” they said, especially as they plan more trips together.
Their advice for anyone who wants to stay active as they age is simple and classic Suderman: “Keep active. See NWP at least monthly and do what they tell you to do.”
And if you’re wondering what’s still on their bucket list? Don said he always wanted to surf—and not only did he get the chance in Hawaii, he said proudly, “I got up!” Twice. Marcee has always wanted to learn to fly a plane, but, she adds with a smile, “I don’t want to spend the money to do so…”
Don and Marcee, thank you for inspiring all of us. Your persistence, your curiosity, and your commitment to living life fully remind us what staying active is really about: staying capable of doing the things you love, with the people you love.
We’re honored to be part of their story!