Livestrong Returns to the Berkeley Heights YMCA

Registration is now open for a new session of Livestrong at the YMCA,  a 12-week recovery program for adult cancer patients and survivors starting at the Berkeley Heights YMCA on June 25.

Officias at the local Y said the nonprofit offers the program periodically to help people focus on the patient rather than the disease and to help people move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body.

“This 12-week program is so inspirational. It’s amazing to watch the participants gain strength both physically and emotionally through the support of the trainers and their fellow participants,” said Lisa Monaghan, wellness director for the Berkeley Heights YMCA.

“This program is truly transformative for so many participants.” 

The Livestrong at the YMCA program, a research-based physical activity and well-being program, is offered at no cost. Participants work with Y staffers trained in supportive cancer care to achieve goals such as building muscle mass and strength, increasing flexibility and endurance and improving confidence and self-esteem. At the same time, the program seeks to provide a supportive community for patients and their family members.

“I was devastated when I learned I had stage-3 breast cancer," said resident Denice DeGregorio, who participates in Livestrong at the YMCA. "I almost couldn’t breathe. The surgeries, chemotherapy and 37 rounds of radiation have taken a radical toll on my body.

“A fellow cancer patient recommended that I try Livestrong at the YMCA," she continued. "When I joined I couldn’t lift my arms above my head, and just last week I not only put my hands over my head but I was able to clasp them behind my back! What a moment—we all cried. This program is better than any kind of therapy. I regained my mobility, I am stronger, I feel better about myself and I have reclaimed my sense of independence.”

The program kicks off June 25 and runs Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6-7:15 p.m. Class sizes are small to provide individualized attention, so space is limited and registration is required, either online at www.theSAY.org, or in person at the Berkeley Heights YMCA, 550 Springfield Ave.

For more information, contact Lisa Monaghan at 908-464-8373 x2026 or lisa.monaghan@thesay.org.