In 2008, the YMCA of the USA partnered with LIVESTRONG® to help cancer survivors begin the journey toward recovery with the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program. Part of the Y’s commitment to strengthening community through healthy living, the program offers adults affected by cancer a safe, supportive environment to participate in physical and social activities focused on strengthening the whole person-not the disease.
The free, 12–week LIVESTRONG program meets twice a week for 90 minutes
The program uses traditional exercise methods to ease survivors back into fitness and help maintain a healthy weight. Also learning about wellness, stress reduction techniques and how to continue healthy habits after the program has ended. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA encourages a warm spirit of community – a safe, comfortable place for you to build companionship with others affected by cancer and share stories and inspiration.
In December of 2012, the Baxter YMCA started this program’s pilot group for our Central Indiana community. These small groups of participants were wonderful in their efforts to help us make this program as effective and user friendly as we know it can be. We started out with some sharing on the first day and quickly learned that the common thread of cancer creates quick bonds and provides an environment of comfort and safety.
Official LIVESTRONG kick-off
In 2013 was the official kick-off of the LIVESTRONG program at the YMCA! Since then we are pleased to report that our participants have truly enjoyed each phase of the program and diligently work toward each individual goal. Friendships have been forged, doubts have been put to rest and many have since completed the program with a sense of accomplishment! We will continue to see growth and success with our participants as they build another small community here at Baxter YMCA.