When the Y launched its LiveStrongâ„¢ at the YMCA program last summer, we started with a grant from the Lance Armstrong Foundation and 12 cancer survivors.

A year later, 50 cancer survivors have gathered together twice a week, 12 weeks at a time, to recondition their bodies (and minds) at the YMCA. Some cancer survivors are just emerging from treatment; others are struggling with a recurrence of cancer. Everyone is looking to feel better and stronger, both mentally and physically.

LiveStrong participants first meet with trained YMCA staff to develop their own fitness plan. During the twice-weekly sessions they then work on the fitness equipment on the wellness floor or walk on the indoor track. Then everyone gathers in one of the Y's studios for group exercises and activities.

There is no charge for LiveStrong at the YMCA. Each participant receives a free YMCA membership for the 12 weeks of the program.

Mary Beth Sheehan, our health and wellness outreach coordinator, has told me that she’s heard so many stories from cancer survivors who’ve been helped or touched by the program. People like Ed, who says: “It was hard for quite a while (to get to the gym), but here in the end it’s gotten easier.” Or from people like Barb, who wrote to thank our LiveStrong staff, who “..patiently supported and helped me develop an exercise program to meet my individual needs.” The husband of one participant was so impressed with the program that he decided to volunteer at the Y, even after his wife’s death. The women’s basketball teams at Huron and Pioneer even turned their game into a “Hoops for a Cause” event, where they raised money for our LiveStrongâ„¢ program.

What’s surprised me during this past year is that whenever I mention this program - to a casual acquaintance, a business contact, whomever - people want to know more. It seems like they always know someone - a niece, a parent, a friend - who’s living and struggling with cancer. Our next LiveStrongâ„¢ session starts on Sept. 1 and runs through Nov. 19th. If you or someone you know might be interested in joining this program, please email Mary Beth at livestrong@annarborymca.org or call 661-8036.

Marcia Luke-van Dijk is communications director at the Ann Arbor YMCA.