JFCS And SMH Celebrate Cancer Support Program Anniversary

SARASOTA, FL -- Marking a new milestone for cancer support and hope, a partnership between JFCS of the Suncoast and Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) that started one year ago has now brought hope and relief to more than 158 people and their families.

A recent JFCS and SMH Cancer Wellness Celebration event held at HealthFit – powered by Sarasota Memorial Hospital – showcased the program and benefits to the general public. More than 40 people dealing with cancer and their family members attended, providing them with a dose of hope, aid and support that others have found through the JFCS and SMH classes. The services include a variety of gentle exercise, wellness classes, and cancer support groups. Workshops are also offered on nutrition, cancer and genetics, lymphedema, and other topics relevant to cancer patients. All services are offered at no cost to adult patients, caregivers, and family affected by a cancer diagnosis. ­

In addition to the SMH-HealthFit location, JFCS offers the Cancer Support program in nine other locations in Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte counties. In 2016-2017, 964 individuals were served in conjunction with the program.

“JFCS is extremely fortunate to be in partnership with Sarasota Memorial Hospital in this capacity,” said Bambi Furtado, director for cancer and wellness programs for JFCS. “Having the ability to offer the exercise and mind/body classes free of charge to anyone impacted by a cancer diagnosis not only allows for the programs to be more accessible to the community, but also supports and validates the importance of integrating these types of activities into cancer wellness.”

Research findings and testimonials on benefits of exercise

Research findings cite the positive effects exercise has on cancer patients, including improvements in physical stamina, balance, and ability to cope with stress and anxiety, all of which are proven to contribute to a higher quality of life and sense of wellbeing. “Cancer treatment and recovery can be a challenging road and JFCS and HealthFit are here to help, knowing that no one can – or should – do it alone,” said Heidi Brown, CEO of JFCS. “Support groups, workshops, and gentle exercise and wellness classes are provided at no cost to adult patients, caregivers and family affected by a cancer diagnosis. We hope this celebration of cancer wellness has helped raise awareness to people struggling with cancer and that there is a welcoming support network readily available at no cost to them.”

JFCS and HealthFit Cancer Support Class Information

Every JFCS and HealthFit program is designed to help make the journey to wellness easier. By reducing stress, patients can focus on healing. With a supportive group of caring leaders and participants, everyone always feels welcome. For a monthly calendar of sessions, please visit: http://www.jfcs-cares.org/services/cancer-support. Sessions are free, but donations are always appreciated.

About JFCS

Founded in 1985, JFCS is a fully accredited, community-based social service, non-profit organization serving Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, Collier, Lee and DeSoto counties in Florida, with the goal of empowering people to lead healthy, happy and sustainable lives. JFCS serves more than 29,000 individuals each year through counseling, prevention, intervention, outreach, case management, basic life necessities, financial aid and life skills education programs on a secular, non-denominational basis. Its seven key focal areas include Youth, Seniors, Cancer Support, Jewish Healing, Counseling, Veterans and Families. For more information, visit www.jfcs-cares.org or call 941.366.2224.

Photos: 1) JFCS and SMH partnership leaders Kayla Frimmel, SMH HealthFit manager of ambulatory operation; Kelly Batista, SMH Cancer Institute director; Heidi Brown, JFCS CEO; Bambi Furtado, JFCS director of cancer support & wellness; and Deniese Kragel, oncology exercise facilitator, gather together at the recent Cancer Wellness Celebration. 2) Participants in one of the JFCS-SMH classes go through a series of chair exercises proven to improve well-being.