YMCA Offers Free Program for Cancer Survivors

The Somerset Hills YMCA will offer a session of LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA, which is a free, 12-week recovery program for adult cancer patients and survivors. Registration is currently open for the session that will begin on June 3, 2014. Two class sessions are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, one from 11:00am-12:15pm and one from 6:00 - 7:15pm. Class sizes are small to provide individualized attention; and therefore, space is limited.

Cancer is a life-changing disease that takes a tremendous physical and emotional toll on those affected. As a nonprofit that believes in healthy living and social responsibility, the Somerset Hills YMCA offers this program, which focuses on the whole person and not the disease. LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA helps people move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body.

“This 12-week program is so inspirational. It’s amazing to watch the participants gain strength both physically and emotionally through the support of the trainers and their fellow participants,” said Lisa Pensabene, Group Exercise Director for the Somerset Hills YMCA. “This program is truly transformative for so many participants.” 

The LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program is a research-based physical activity and well-being program that is designed to help adult cancer survivors reclaim their total health. This 12-week program is offered at no cost to members and potential members alike. Participants work with Y staff, trained in supportive cancer care, to achieve their goals such as building muscle mass and strength; increasing flexibility and endurance; and improving confidence and self-esteem. In addition to physical benefits, LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA focuses on the emotional well-being of survivors and their families by providing a supportive community where people affected by cancer can connect during treatment and beyond. The program has proven to be life-changing for many participants.

“I was devastated when I learned I had stage-3 breast cancer. I almost couldn’t breathe. The surgeries, chemotherapy and 37 rounds of radiation have taken a radical toll on my body,” commented Denice DeGregorio, a LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA participant. “A fellow cancer patient recommended that I try LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA. When I joined I couldn’t lift my arms above my head. But, just a few weeks into the program I not only put my hands over my head, I was also able to clasp them behind my back! What a moment – we all cried. This program is better than any kind of therapy. I regained my mobility, I am stronger, I feel better about myself and I have reclaimed my sense of independence.”

To register for the next session or for more information on the LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program, contact Lisa Pensabene by phone 908-766-7898 x548 or email at groupex@somersethillsymca.org.

For more information about the Somerset Hills YMCA visit www.somersethillsymca.org.