YMCA Cancer Survivor Program is open to anyone living through and beyond cancer.
A life-changing physical activity and support program designed for people with a cancer diagnosis is launching in the Sunshine Coast this September. The YMCA Cancer Survivor Program at the Y Caloundra will provide an instructor-led fitness program within a compassionate, knowledgeable environment.
The program was launched in Brisbane eight years ago and delivers exercise interventions specifically for people who are either going through or recovering from cancer treatment. Participants are offered two 60-minute group sessions a week across 12 weeks.
Sessions are conducted under direct supervision of qualified YMCA instructors to ensure the use of proper techniques and minimise the risk of injury. All instructors are trained in the fields of cancer, post-rehab exercise, and supportive cancer care.
The program aims to empower cancer survivors to improve their functional capacity and to increase their quality of life through an organised program of fitness and strength. Following fitness and functional assessments, participants are offered an exercise program tailored to suit their individual needs and abilities. Exercises include aerobic sessions, progressive resistance training, flexibility, and balance activities. Additional goals include reducing the severity of therapy side effects, the prevention or minimisation of unwanted bodyweight changes and the improvement of energy levels and self-esteem.
To date, 875 Australians have benefitted from the entirely complimentary program, which has expanded from Y Bowen Hills to service Victoria Point, Jamboree Heights, Warwick and will open in Stanthorpe in 2025.
This strong uptake of the program is not surprising. While Australian Government statistics show 162,000 new cases of cancer reported in Australia in 2022, the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) states that: “Oncology services are finding it increasingly difficult to provide high quality follow-up care to all survivors as numbers grow and resources do not match the growth.”
In 2016, the University of Queensland studied one of the first cohorts of the 12-week program—made up of 30 patients living with cancer—and found that the program improved health outcomes. Findings from the study showed that the functional capacity of patients significantly improved, and body weight was maintained. It also found that the program improved participants balance and reduced their sedentary behaviour.
Lesley Telford who completed the course at the Y Warwick says, "At my first session I arrived on a walking stick to help my balance after having had seven falls while enduring chemo treatment.
"With the help of our two wonderful instructors, I gained strength, balance and confidence and now I no longer require a walking stick…I consider myself a walking miracle."
Lesley Telford, second from the left.
The Cancer Survivor Program also tackles the sense of social isolation that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis, with many participants establishing long-lasting friendships.
"I felt empowered to continue my fitness along with maintaining contact with fellow members to support and remain positive" says Jennifer Pearce, and, adds Lyndel Mundey, "the friendships formed during the 12 weeks has left me with more confidence, strength and self-worth." Both women also engaged in the program at Warwick.
Jacqui Hain, Centre Manager at the Y Caloundra says, "I'm really proud to be bringing the Cancer Survivor Program to the Sunshine Coast. We just want to get the word out, so please tell your friends and family. It's completely free, and open to everyone, even if you're not a YMCA member!"
The first intake of the YMCA Cancer Survivor Program at the Y Caloundra (cnr Arthur St and Central Park Rd) begins on Monday 9 September. Sessions will be held Mondays and Thursdays at 12.30pm. Numbers are limited. To learn more, or register, please visit YMCA Cancer Survivor Program.
