“I needed a program to get me started and feeling like myself again after all the treatments I had. I am doing this for me!”

This excited, emotional statement was made from a proud graduate of our community’s LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program. LIVESTRONG is a research-based physical activity and well-being initiative that helps people affected by cancer reach their holistic health needs.

Exercise is the simplest way for cancer survivors to reduce fatigue, improve moods and bounce back from the often debilitating effects of cancer treatment more quickly. Started with a small grant through Y-USA and the LIVESTRONG Foundation, the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region launched the first program at the Briargate Family Center in the Fall of 2014. The Downtown YMCA began their first LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program on February 3 and Tri Lakes YMCA will begin February 17. A minimum of 3 additional programs will run throughout the year at various locations. The program is made available through donations from individuals and organizations in our community.

This 12-week, twice-a-week class is available at no charge to its participants. There is an initial interview process to ensure that this program is right for each person and to establish the important relationship necessary to ensure that support is available based on individual needs. LIVESTRONG is for survivors starting on the day of diagnosis until well after treatment is completed.

Specially-trained and certified LIVESTRONG at the YMCA instructors work with each participant to develop a customized plan to meet their needs. “The classroom environment provides opportunities to make new friendships in a community setting which might be overwhelming and confusing to those who may never have been in a fitness facility or for those who need support getting back into a wellness routine. The focus of LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is in supporting wellness and physical goals and not the focus on being a patient. Participants enjoy being out of the patient role and having a semblance of control in their recovery”, states Charlotte Waters, Executive Director of Healthy Living Strategies for the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region.

“We believe so strongly in filling this need in our community,” said Boyd Williams, CEO of the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region. “Knowing that cancer affects the entire family, the program is offered at no charge to the participants along with a complementary family membership during the 12-week program. We know that having a place to be a family and participate in our many, many programs and events is part of the healing process during a time when things like normalcy, financial struggles and physical challenges can become overwhelming.”

For more information, visit ppymca.org, email LIVESTRONG@ppymca.org or call 719-329-7295.