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Free cancer survivor program set to begin at Taylor Family YMCA

The Taylor Family YMCA in Elgin will offer a session of "Livestrong at the YMCA," a free, 12-week recovery program for adult cancer patients and survivors.

Registration is currently open for the session that will begin Sept. 14. Class sessions are available Mondays and Thursdays from 1 to 2:15 p.m. Class size is small (8-12) to provide individualized attention; space is limited.

Cancer is a life-changing disease that takes a tremendous physical and emotional toll on those affected. The Taylor YMCA focuses on strengthening the whole person and not just the disease itself.

As a nonprofit that believes in healthy living and social responsibility, the Taylor Family YMCA offers this program free.

"Livestrong at the Y" helps people move beyond cancer in spirit, minds, 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, Y staff, and fellow survivors," said Birdie Bednarski, membership engagement director for the Taylor Family YMCA. "This program is truly transformative for so many participants."

"Livestrong at the YMCA" is a 12-week, small group program designed for adult cancer survivors. This program fulfills the important need of supporting the increasing number of cancer survivors who find themselves in the transitional period between completing their cancer treatment and the shift to feeling physically and emotionally strong enough to attempt to return to their normal life or their "new normal." The program is conducted outside of medical facilities to emphasize that "Livestrong at the YMCA" is about health, not disease.

The goal is to help participants build muscle mass and muscle strength, increase flexibility and endurance and improve functional ability. Additional goals include reducing the severity of therapy side effects, preventing unwanted weight changes and improving energy levels and self-esteem. A final goal of the program is to assist participants in developing their own physical fitness program so they can continue to practice a healthy lifestyle, not only as part of their recovery, but as a way of life. In addition to the physical benefits, the program provides participants a supportive environment and a feeling of community with their fellow survivors, YMCA staff and members.

YMCA fitness instructors work with each participant to fit the program to their individual needs. The instructors are trained in the elements of cancer, post rehab exercise and supportive cancer care.

To register for the next session or for more information on the "Livestrong" at the YMCA program, contact Birdie at (847) 888-7410 or email birdieb@gcfymca.org.

The Taylor Family YMCA is offering the program at no cost to participants, but anyone interested in supporting the program with a donation should contact Dave Burisek, executive director, at daveb@gcfymca.org, or call (847) 888-7410.

The Taylor Family YMCA is a branch of the Golden Corridor Family YMCA, a 501(c)3 nonprofit agency, and all contributions to the organization are tax deductible.

About the Y Taylor Family YMCA

The Y is one of the nation's leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 21 million men, women and children - regardless of age, income or background - to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation's health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. We believe everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, should have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. For more information about programs, financial assistance, or to make a donation, call (847) 888-7410 or visit www.taylorymca.org.

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