East valley doctors opening up all-inclusive children's gym

AHWATUKEE, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Two valley doctors, a husband and wife team, are putting traditional medicine and treatments aside to open a gym.

It's one they hope will help children of all ages and developmental stages.

The owner of My Gym in Ahwatukee, Pooja Doeharman, says climbing, balancing and swimming can be education and therapeutic.

"We provide classes that have been well-studied, well-researched to be developmentally appropriate to help children overcome, you know, different physical limitations, social limitations. So the gym can really be used for all children regardless of their abilities," Doeharman said.

Doeharman and her husband say they had a vision for the gym that includes all children.

"We really want to be inclusive of all different children. There are children out there with sensory or developmental needs and those children can really thrive in this sort of setting," Doeharman said.

"This is a place for them to come and learn how to respond appropriately or effectively to communities, social interactions and to their sensory system," said Meghan Golba.

Golba is an occupational therapist who specializes in pediatrics. She uses complete sensory therapy play to create an environment that makes everyone feel safe.

"As an OBGYN, it's always been one of my career goals to encourage healthy behaviors for young women and children. I think that's how you build healthy families," Doeharman said.

Doeharman's goal isn't a one-size-fits-all gym. Instead, she wants My Gym to be an inclusive environment where all children can learn athletics, dance, build confidence and strengthen relationships between children and with their families.

And that's what she says will make a meaningful difference in our community.

My Gym's grand re-opening will take place on May 26.