WARSAW — The Kosciusko Community YMCA will be offering its 20th LIVESTRONG at the YMCA class starting on June 11, with more classes following this fall. 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.

Grants from the K21 Health Foundation and the Kosciusko County Cancer Care Fund have funded these efforts so that the program can be offered free of charge to cancer survivors.

If you’re interested in joining one of this fall’s classes, please contact Stacy Thomas at [email protected] or (574) 269-9622 x216. Thomas will guide you through a simple intake process and connect you with the group that best meets your needs.   

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is an evidence-based program built on best practices for cancer survivor exercise. The goals of the program are to empower adult cancer survivors to improve functional capacity and to increase their quality of life through an organized program of fitness and strength offered in a supportive, small-group setting. The Kosciusko Community YMCA has been able to offer the program since February of 2016 and has helped 130 people improve endurance, strength, stamina, courage and morale and move beyond cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, 15.5 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.

The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. All the efforts and offerings of the Kosciusko Community YMCA are guided by the core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Every day, the Y works side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure everyone regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. In 2017, the Kosciusko Community YMCA provided $183,298 in financial assistance to make sure that happens.