Family: Teen with down syndrome turned away from gym
RIPLEY, TN- (WMC-TV) - A Mid-South family with two children says they tried to join a fitness center earlier this week but were turned away because the staff was not trained to deal with one of their children, who has Down Syndrome.
"After we purchased our family membership, we could only bring three-quarters of our family," said mother Sherrie Cates.
No matter the day or circumstance, 13-year-old Mollie Cates is a happy young lady.
Her parents said they were shocked at how they were treated when they took Mollie and her older sister to Ripley Family Fitness Center Monday.
"We got turned away because of her," said father Kevin Cates.
Kevin and his wife said it was the first time all four family members had been to the gym together.
"Their brochure says they don't turn anyone away, anyone can come in. But, we were met at the door and they said their staff isn't trained to deal with anyone like Mollie," said Sherrie.
