LIVESTRONG AT THE YMCA

The YMCA of Youngstown is a provider of the nationally recognized LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program thanks to an implementation grant from YMCA of the USA (Y-USA), the Y’s national resource office, in partnership with the LIVESTRONG® Foundation. The 12-week physical activity and well-being initiative helps people affected by cancer reach their holistic health goals. Additionally, programs like LIVESTRONG at the YMCA are part of the Y’s overall commitment to help cancer survivors recover in a safe and supportive environment. According to the CDC, nearly 14 million people in the U.S. today are cancer survivors – those living with, through and beyond a cancer diagnosis. Historically, health care providers instructed cancer patients to rest and avoid activity or exertion, but studies now demonstrate the importance of physical activity for cancer survivors. “Research shows exercise is the simplest way for cancer survivors to reduce fatigue, improve their mood and bounce back more quickly from the debilitating effects of cancer treatment,” said Dr. Ruth Rechis, LIVESTRONG Foundation Vice President of Programs. “The Y is the perfect collaborator for the program because of its national reach, commitment to meeting the needs of all community members and history of program innovation in support of health and wellness.  Through our partnership, we’ve now been able to widely expand the program into more than 300 cities throughout the country to ensure survivors have access.” LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is made possible by a cooperative agreement between Y-USA and the LIVESTRONG Foundation, which seeks to inspire and empower people affected by cancer. Launched in 2008, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is designed to improve the health and day-to-day quality of life for the country’s growing population of cancer survivors and their families. To date, more than 22,000 cancer survivors have participated in the program nationwide.