The Student Who Forever Left a Mark on My Heart

My journey as a movement and dance coach in Utah County began with a remarkable soul named Wayne Garff. Freshly married, I was working my first job at a chiropractic clinic when I met Wayne in the waiting room. What started as a simple conversation about dance quickly became something much deeper. His eyes lit up as he shared his longing to dance again, even though age and physical challenges had slowed him down.

Then he asked me something that changed the course of my life: “Would you come visit me each week for dance sessions as my therapy?”

Without hesitation, I said yes.

Wayne was nearly 80 years young, and though his body carried limitations, something incredible happened when the music began. The moment we stepped into a rhythm together, his energy surged, his eyes sparkled, and his smile lit up the room. Each week, our lessons became a highlight for both of us — not just a time to move, but a chance to connect, to laugh, and to remember that joy lives in every season of life.

Eventually, I had to move away, and our lessons came to an end. Months later, I received a heartfelt letter from Wayne’s wife. She shared that those months of dancing were the only times Wayne would get out of bed. Our sessions had given him purpose, energy, and happiness — so much so that he talked about them until the very day he passed away. She believed those dances didn’t just lift his spirit, but may have even prolonged his life.

I wept reading her words.

Wayne was the first of many students who have left indelible marks on my heart. He taught me that dance therapy isn’t about how perfect the steps are — it’s about the healing power of connection, the way dance can awaken the soul even when the body feels tired. His story became the foundation of why I teach, why I created Dance to Uplift, and why I believe so deeply in the transformative nature of movement.

To all my students, past, present, and future: thank you for trusting me with your stories, your laughter, and your souls. Whether you’re joining me for adult ballroom dance classes in Springville, exploring West Coast Swing or breathwork coaching in Utah County, or stepping into my Dance to Uplift workshops for healing and connection, know that every moment on the dance floor is about so much more than learning steps.

It’s about joy. It’s about healing. It’s about remembering that no matter your age, your body, or your story — you can dance with the spirit of a timeless soul.

Though I don’t have photos of Wayne, I’ve shared here some of the faces of other students who have inspired me deeply — students who remind me daily that dance is about the way we connect, uplift, and carry each other through life.

Together, let’s live in love, move with meaning, and play passionately

Shalay Andrus