A Healthy Partnership

The Rye YMCA has partnered with Livestrong, Lance Armstrong’s global juggernaut dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by cancer. While Livestrong addresses their physical, emotional, and practical concerns, the Y program fosters the well being of cancer survivors by refining the physical aspect.

By Janice Llanes Fabry

The Rye YMCA has partnered with Livestrong, Lance Armstrong’s global juggernaut dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by cancer. While Livestrong addresses their physical, emotional, and practical concerns, the Y program fosters the well being of cancer survivors by refining the physical aspect.

The pilot program was launched at the Y this summer, once it met Livestrong’s stringent criteria. It offers participants two complimentary 75-minute sessions that include cardio and strength training by Livestrong-trained instructors. Class size is limited to ten participants, who are also given a free 12-week membership and full access to the facility.

“Livestrong helps people navigate the complexities of survivorship and it found a logical partner in the YMCA, which has a global reach,” explained Laura Tiedge, Senior Director of Healthy Living and one of the program’s Survivor Advocates.

The other advocate, Member Services Director Barbara Hughes, indoctrinates participants on the benefits of a longer-term Y membership. “They have become part of our family and we want them to continue the journey they’ve undertaken here,” said Hughes, a familiar face at the Y for 18 years.

The program’s diverse population currently includes survivors from 44 to 80 in treatment or in remission. They are predominantly breast cancer and prostate cancer survivors, which reflects the national trend, but fitness regimens are tailored to benefit all cancer patients.  

“Physical activity is a must for cancer survivors,” explained Tiedge.

Carol Schwartz, a seven-year breast cancer survivor enrolled in the program, is grateful for the opportunity. “The trainers are respectful, encouraging, and enthusiastic as they watch us improve our strength, flexibility, and endurance,” she said. “As a group, the other survivors and I have bonded, shared stories, and connected on so many different levels.”

Indeed, an intrinsic component is the fact that class members bond quickly. “The cohesion of these groups and the level of support survivors offer one another is amazing,” said Tiedge. “We trainers can empathize, but we haven’t walked in their shoes. This program reinforces how important it is for us to connect to other people.”

New daytime and evening classes begin every seven weeks. To learn more about the program, contact Laura Tiedge at 967-6363, ext. 10, or livestrong@ryeymca.org.