OLATHE, Kan. – Two new grants will allow more cancer patients and survivors to have access to a YMCA program.
Organizers say it truly helps them get back on their feet after a diagnosis and treatment. Peg Carlson is a fighter and a cancer survivor.
“I did not feel like myself because I’ve always had a lot of energy and I had none,” said Carlson.
Carlson was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, and after surgeries, radiation and chemo, she could barely walk.
“I got on the treadmill the first time and could not complete one minute,” said Carlson.
Carlson is one of hundreds who have gone through the ‘Livestrong at the YMCA’ program.
Funded through grants and donations, any adult with a cancer diagnosis can apply for a free 12-week membership.
“We focus on building strength, balance, endurance, flexibility and creating a community of survivors,” said Jessica Velázquez of the Olathe YMCA.
Cancer exercise specialists like Velázquez lead the small group twice a week to stretch, exercise and talk.
“Just having two parents that are cancer survivors, just seeing the importance of staying physically active, not only helps them physically but emotionally,” she said.
Carlson is a survivor. She finished the program and still goes, but not everyone does.
“We started out with 12 of us and we did lose a few members along the way, which was very, very sad,” said Carlson.
Carlson says the program helps give back what the cancer took away.
“It, it made all the difference in the world,” she said.
Now she’s doing more than just walking.
“At the end of 12 weeks I was doing a mile in 20 minutes and I was, that’s pretty good,” she said.
Peace of mind for the mind, body and soul. Four local YMCA locations offer the free program. The next session starts in May.
To apply, get more information or to donate, CLICK HERE.
