‘Evening of Inspiration’ To Benefit YMCA’s LIVESTRONG Program

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Tuesday, September 24, 2013

GoLocalWorcester Health Team

On Wednesday, September 25, 2013 the YMCA of Central Massachusetts and Saint Vincent Hospital will host an “Evening of Inspiration” Spotlight On Survivorship, honoring all who have suffered or have been touched by cancer. The event proceeds will benefit the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program, which is offered to cancer survivors, their families, and those who are dealing with the disease. The night will also honor caregivers who many times are eclipsed with the focus being on the cancer victim and their treatment. Worcester Chief of Police and cancer survivor Edward Gardella will serve as the event's sepcial guest.

“The LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program continues to provide an excellent platform for not only positively impacting the health and well-being of cancer survivors and their families, but also a powerful example of what organizations can accomplishment when they work together for the common good,” said Beth Donnelly, Director of Community Relations at Saint Vincent Hospital.

A growing support system

The YMCA of Central Massachusetts is one of just 120 YMCAs in the nation that host LIVESTRONG at the YMCA. A small-group program that helps adult cancer survivors reclaim their health following a cancer diagnosis, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a physical activity and well-being initiative that helps people affected by cancer regain their bodies and minds, and is available to cancer survivors in the community at no cost. Through this program, YMCAs are creating communities among cancer survivors and guiding them through safe physical activity, helping them build supportive relationships, and reducing stress—all leading to an improved quality of life.

The unique program, which began at the Greendale Family Branch early in 2012, helped hundreds of survivors and their families. The momentum from the original program's success led to the YMCA of Central Massachusetts expanding the program to the Boroughs Family Branch, which recently completed its inaugural session of LIVESTRONG at the YMCA. Plans to also expand the program to Montachusett Community Branch later this fall and The Central Branch early in 2014 are in place, which will remove geographic barriers to participants and dramatically increase session options throughout all four branches.

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