For nearly 30 years, Jill Franke has led exercise classes at the YMCA and Senior Center.
An aerobics, group and aqua fitness instructor, she helps members and clients achieve their goals.
Some are initially afraid to work out. Jill proudly watches them turn into “beautiful butterflies,” she says.
It’s an apt metaphor. She does exactly the same at home, with caterpillars. Jill nurtures them, as they turn into beautiful — and actual — monarch butterflies.
Her hobby began six years ago. She helps the eggs grow, from a milkweed plant to microscopic caterpillars. Jill watches as they eat for two weeks, getting “big and fat.”
The start: tiny eggs.
They climb to the top of her cage, hang by their feet for 1 to 2 weeks, then spend 24 to 48 hours turning into butterflies. Their wings are wet, and they are “exhausted” from the transformation.
They walk around the cage, drying their wings. After 1 or 2 days, Jill releases them. The day must be warm (the heat helps them fly), with little wind.
In past years, Jill released 25 monarchs. This year, she has freed only 15. “Builders have been ripping out milkweed,” she explains. “Pesticides hurt too.”
To help the cause, Jill worked with Oak Lawn Cemetery in Fairfield. She and a landscaper planted thousands of milkweed seeds. It’s a beautiful spot.
During COVID, groups met there to meditate. They continue still.
Jill feels a “spiritual connection” to monarchs — an endangered species. The other day, an injured butterfly landed at her feet. She fed it sugar water until it felt better, then watched it rise away.
Jill Franke releases a monarch butterfly.
“I’m passionate about helping them survive. I’m glad I can play a part,” she says. “It’s a miracle.”
When monarchs fly off, Jill adds, she feels as if she is watching an “ancestor.” Then, she says, “I trust them. They’re watching over me.”
In late October, most butterflies are gone. There are few plants, like zinnias, to feed on. Now, she spends more time with her human friends.
Monarchs need plants to thrive.
“I’m a helper,” she says. “When it’s helping people reach their fitness and nutrition goals, I get the same satisfaction as watching caterpillars turn into gorgeous butterflies.”
Some of her success stories fly away. Some stay on earth, and return for more classes.
Insect or human, all are important parts of Jill Franke’s world.
Beautiful story – kudos to Jill. Keep them flying! Gods winged prayers!
Amen
This article is incredibly inspirational, actually transformational……. it has inspired me to think about planting butterfly loving plants around the whole perimeter of our property (approximately three quarters of a mile) in order to support their survival…….any body want to help? We are also looking at planting mast trees to encourage wild turkeys to come and take up residency. So much to do, so little time……..
There are several big steps that we residents and the town of Westport can take in this effort.
1) identify and protect native milkweed stands on private and public property
2) eliminate insecticide spraying on public and private lands where native pollinating plants grow (I have two bee hives close to town owned and private properties that are regularly sprayed for ticks. And even though I have filed for notice through required state channels, I have never had advance warning).
3) halt mowing on private and town owned properties when prime pollinator crops are producing pollen (Ie. May for clover)
4) make some public official responsible for organizing and promoting pollinator-friendly programs, schedules, and practices.
At the Westport Center for Senior Activities Jill offers a Strength Class on Monday afternoons. She is a dedicated trainer and a very caring person. I am not at all surprised about her saving butterflies. My own health has improved — thanks to Jill.
I have also been raising Monarchs for the past five years. It is very easy to do and the rewards are well beyond worth the little time and expense you invest. If anyone is interested in starting this amazing adventure, I would be happy to help get you going.
Jill is a wonderful Aqua Fitness instructor at the Westport Weston Family Y with decades of knowledge. We love her. And she’s dedicated and loved at the Westport Center for Senior Activities, too. Great article, Dan!
That was a beautiful article about Jill Franke. It’s been awhile since I have seen or spoken to her. She’s a lovely person, kind and caring. I’m so happy to hear of her good work and glad she is well.