At the end of September, the Marion Family YMCA started the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA pilot program, a research-based physical activity and well-being initiative that helps people affected by cancer reach their holistic health goals. The LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program is for cancer survivors in the Marion, Ohio community, and is being offered 2 days weeks for 12 weeks.
Initially launched in 2008, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is designed to improve the health and day-to-day quality of life for the country’s growing population of cancer survivors. By the end of 2013, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA will be offered at 300 Ys around the country. To date, over 16,800 cancer survivors have participated in the program nationwide.
“Research shows exercise is the simplest way for cancer survivors to reduce fatigue, improve their mood and bounce back more quickly from the debilitating effects of cancer treatment,” said Dr. Ruth Rechis, LIVESTRONG Foundation Vice President of Programs.
“The Y is the perfect collaborator for the program because of its national reach, commitment to meeting the needs of all community members, and history of program innovation in support of health and wellness. Through our partnership, we’ve now been able to widely expand the program into more than 300 cities throughout the country to ensure survivors have access.”
As part of LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, the Y engages cancer survivors through an approach that focuses on the whole person. Participants work with trained Y staff to build muscle mass and strength, increase flexibility and endurance, and improve functional ability. In addition to physical benefits, the program also focuses on the emotional well-being of survivors by providing a supportive community environment where people affected by cancer can connect during treatment and beyond.
“We are excited to collaborate with the LIVESTRONG Foundation to offer those diagnosed with cancer the support they need to build emotional and physical strength,” said Heather Wright, Wellness Director. “The Y strives to be a leading voice for health and well-being in our communities by providing resources and guidance to ensure that all people can achieve greater health in spirit, mind and body.”
The Marion Family YMCA is one of 29 Ys in the U.S. to receive a grant to implement the program as a result of the 2013 LIVESTRONG Community Impact Project, an online community voting campaign.
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is part of a multi-year collaboration between YMCA of the USA, the national resource office for the Y, and the LIVESTRONG Foundation, an organization known for leading an ongoing dialogue with patients and survivors, providing free cancer support services and advocating for policies that improve access to care and quality of life.
For more information contact Heather Wright at the Marion Family YMCA at 740‐725‐9622.
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