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Cancer survivors participate in Livestrong class at YMCA

11 February 2015

Cancer survivors participate in Livestrong class at YMCA
Register Herald
by Jeremy Erskine
February 11, 2015

10887664 860558317323044 237028300789996061 oEATON — A group of cancer survivors finished up the LIVEstrong program held at the Preble County YMCA on Thursday, Feb. 5.

The 12-week course was considered a pilot program and funded completely by the Kettering Health Network. The YMCA plans on doing the course three times a year at no cost to the cancer survivors who want to take the class.

The class aimed to help those diagnosed with cancer in the realms of physical fitness, balance, and flexibility. It also helps to eliminate some of the financial burdens that come along with cancer.

“There is a physical toll, but there is also a financial toll,” said Josh Haynes, the executive director for the Preble County YMCA. “They are the only ones who know what you’re going through. It becomes a nice support group.”

On Thursday, the group met for their final session. The class served as a celebration, where many – survivors and staff alike – provided testimonies from the course and the progress they’ve made.

All participants also received certificates commemorating the completion of the course as well as a report on how much their strength improved over the 12-week duration.

The Y also recognized their donors from Kettering Health, citing that the financial burden lifted off the shoulders of all those involved cannot be understated.

The event concluded with a reception, complete with cake, fruit, and juice.