A Medal for Mettle \AT Photo S'.C. A&T Chancellor Harold Martin presents the school's Human Rights Medal to the Rev. William Barber, the president of the North Carolina SAACP. The Human Rights Medal is awarded annually by \.C. A&T to recognize individuals who have endeavored to correct social injustice and have significantly con tributed to the betterment of the world. Jackson frvm page A I Jackson decided to fight the condition with knowl edge, S?e signed up for an exercise and dietary program at Forsyth Medical Center designed to strengthen her lungs. By the time the pro gram ended early last year, she had made progress. For the most part. Jackson only needed her oxygen tank while exercising. But,, she was told that she would loose that progress if she didn't continue an exercise routine. So Jackson joined the small YMCA located in the large dome-topped high-rise downtown (formerly the Wachovia Center). She start ed an exercise regime with her husband at her side every step of the w ay. "It was very difficult," said Jackson. "Thank God, I had a mate who pushed me," Not only did Douglas Jackson provide support in the gym, but he made sure she always got there, even when she might tire of it. "He's the police." said Doris Jackson. The couple, who usually wear matching shirts while working out. caught the eye of YMCA . Wellness Instructor Robert Edwards. Ftttrto by Todd Luck Robert Edwards with the Jacksons. He noticed Mrs. Jackson observing one of his Zumba classes. He invited her to join the class, oxygen tank and all. Zumba. a calorie-burning showcase of infectious music and dance-like exercise moves, can be grueling. Edwards assured Jackson that she could move at her own pace. She accepted the offer, claiming a spot in the back of the class and becom ing a regular. Edwards says he was impressed with her determi nation. which was so strong that it inspired even the able bodied members of the class. "She is a testimony ... to what the YMCA's mission is," said Edwards, who also leads classes at the Winston Lake Family YMCA. Zumba, along with strength training and other forms of cardio have been kind to Jackson and her lungs. She has been without an oxygen tank for three weeks. Douglas Jackson said he was glad they were finally able to remove all that equip ment from their house. His wife is an inspiration to him as well. "I'm proud of her every day," said Douglas Jackson. "I'm elated. " As Jackson has improved over time, she's gotten back into her normal activities. She's actively involved in her church. First Assembly of God. The Jacksons drive a bus that transports those with physical disabilities to church each Sunday. She plans to rejoin the church choir, which she's sorely missed. Although it was she who exercised her COPD into remission. Jackson credits God with her recovery, and she4s anxious to sing His praises once again. Businesses asked to help teens become safer drivers CHRONICLE STAFF REPORT Winston-Salem teenagers are continuing to vow to pro tect themselves and others when they get behind the wheel. The city-county school system will announce plans tomorrow