Submitted by: Tammy Bennett, Healthy Living Director at Whatcom Family YMCA
The days of recommending rest and avoiding activity to cancer patients are over. Research shows physical activity is important after a cancer diagnosis, during treatment and beyond. Being active can improve a survivor’s physical functioning and quality of life, and reduce cancer-related fatigue. But that’s not all—it can also help reduce depression. Fortunately, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA right here in Whatcom County is here to help. One survivor shared just how this cancer survivor support program helped her regain a healthy state of mind:
“My husband pushed me to enroll in LIVESTRONG at the YMCA because I was struggling with post-treatment depression. I didn’t want to, but with his support, I made it a priority to go to class. After 12 weeks, not only did I feel stronger, but my depression had lifted too.”
Many times people are frustrated with their body after cancer treatment, and they struggle to understand what works for them. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA’s goal is to empower adult cancer survivors to improve functional capacity and to increase quality of life through a 12-week fitness and strength program.
Specially trained instructors work closely with survivors to ensure each participant is safe and able to work toward increased muscle mass and strength, better balance, flexibility and endurance, and improved energy and self-esteem. Another LIVESTRONG participant shared just how transformational the program can be:
“When I came to LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, it was with awareness that I could no longer do my highly active job. I felt my treatment-damaged muscles were ruined forever. But at the end of the 12 weeks, I was able to do a few hours a week. After a second 12 weeks, I was strong enough to accept as much work as I wanted to.”
Survivors often face new health challenges from their disease and treatment as well as new physical, emotional and daily concerns. After seven years of working with local survivors, YMCA staff are confident that regular, safe and supported physical activity helps survivors reclaim their health and well-being. Sticking to anything when you’re not feeling your best is a challenge, but one survivor summed it up best:
“You go to work for your paycheck. You go to LIVESTRONG at the YMCA for your life!”
For more information on LIVESTRONG at the YMCA and how you or someone you know can benefit from participating in this life-changing program, contact Tammy Bennett at tbennett@whatcomymca.org.
