A year ago at age 34, Jen was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, a form of breast cancer. After her diagnosis, Jen assembled a team that included surgeons, oncologists and the YMCA.
Through the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program, Jen discovered a supportive community that understood what she was experiencing while recovering from a bilateral double mastectomy.
“I loved how many of the trainers were also cancer survivors and could relate to what I was going through. I got the push I needed to keep moving, but I had the oversight to ensure I wasn’t going to overdo it or hurt myself.”
Last year, after chemotherapy, Jen was too weak to pick up her youngest daughter. Today, she can pick up both daughters and lead a 75-minute workout with her peers. She chronicles her breast cancer journey through her blog and social posts that feature her regular Y workouts.
“LIVESTRONG helps cancer survivors by showing them what they can do. Cancer treatments take a lot away from you - mental and physical energy being the primary targets - but LIVESTRONG allows survivors to see that there’s life after treatment.”
“People need to realize that the Y isn’t a place you go just to do one thing—it’s a place where you can experience life and fellowship with others. The Y is vital to our people ecosystem.”
Your Gift
$442 provides an adult cancer survivor with 12 weeks of group health and fitness programming, sharing and support during the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program.
