BELMONT, Mich. -- Adult cancer survivors can get some research-based physical training in the YMCA's "Livestrong" program.
Dave Nykerk is the Association Health & Wellness director for the "Y". He says program participants meet twice a week for certified instruction and support.
"They perform small-group training, with the main goal of restoring their strength and also gaining some emotional support," Nykerk said on West Michigan's Morning News. "It's all about community, it's all about supporting not only the individual but their care providers and their family, as well."
The next Livestrong program begins July 15th at the Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA in Belmont. It runs for three months.
The YMCA also runs a similar program called Pedaling for Parkinson's. That is a cycling-based program in which people with Parkinson's disease participate in a low-intensity class.
"It really works on the cadence of the rhythm. And the research has proven that it helps to limit some of the symptoms by up to 35 percent," Nykerk told WOOD Radio.
Paul Grady is a Pedaling for Parkinson's participant. He was diagnosed with the disease in 2023 and found out last winter about the program.
"I was reluctant at first, but I went into it. And you go the first time, you get hooked," he said. "The support group is unbelievable in West Michigan for Parkinson's. I've gained a lot of good friends in this program. And the most important thing is I feel good."
Erich Pagel is a Pedaling for Parkinson's instruction. He said he is grateful to be able to work with the participants.
"We're a group. We ride but we chat, we encourage one another. And I'm encouraged by them. I just feel blessed to get the chance to lead that group, put that music together and encourage them," Pagel said.
He mentioned that group members have gotten stronger and more confident because of the training.
"And build those relationships, too. The physical and the social and the mental are all tied together," Pagel said.
The nonprofit YMCA programs are funded completely through donations from the community.
Here is a weblink to a site where you can contribute.
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