

LIVESTRONG helps survivors find strength together

6:36 PM, Nov. 13, 2013  |  Comments
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In the hallway outside one of the wellness studios at the Aspirus YMCA, a group of people had congregated, waiting for their exercise class to start.

The 20 or so people were all engaged in conversation. The elevator opened and two people stepped out and were greeted by everyone. The mood was light. People were genuinely happy to see each other. There was a warm feeling of camaraderie, caring, deep respect and a sense of belonging.

Something else was there too; something intangible but definitely present. It was a common thread that brought all these people together.

Like veterans, these people have fought and won a battle and some are still fighting the war. They are survivors, participants in the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA cancer survivor exercise program. And they all come together twice a week at the Y to work out and find their old "normal" or their new "normal" or any "normal" and to reclaim their lives.

For you see, the effects of cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, and/or surgery) leaves patients feeling chronically fatigued and de-conditioned. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a program specifically designed to help cancer patients improve their energy levels, build muscle mass and strength, increase flexibility and endurance and improve their functional ability.

But LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is much more than just an exercise program. It turns out that as the group gets to know each other, they find a safe place to hold each other up, encourage each other and support each other. They find friends who have fought similar battles and have similar scars.

Because the Woodson YMCA is committed to helping our community and the people we serve with programming that builds spirit, mind and body, the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program is free to all who participate. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a 12-week exercise program for cancer survivors and their caregivers and/or families. Participants meet two times a week and are encouraged to enjoy all the benefits of Y membership during the 12-week program. Workouts are tailored to fit each participant in a group setting. In addition to the regular weekly workouts, participants enjoy a sampling of yoga, Zumba Gold, tai chi, water exercise and resistance band training.

The next session starts on Jan. 13 at the Wausau branch and meets from 1:15 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Monday and Thursday afternoon. The Aspirus branch session starts on Feb. 17 and meets from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday evening.

If you are a cancer survivor or you know of a survivor who would benefit from LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, please contact Christy Parks at 715-841-1854 or Sara Pinsonneault at 715-841-1809.

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