The Livestrong program at the Uniontown YMCA was the perfect platform to achieve my goal of returning to a “normal” life after cancer treatment. I typically walked or performed household chores for exercise so the thought of going to a gym was intimidating. Some of the things I worried about were: will I be able to keep up with the other people in the group, am I strong enough to perform the exercises, and will I look silly trying to perform the exercises. However, the opportunity to share this experience with other cancer survivors helped me take the first step and I am so thankful that I did. I really enjoyed learning how to use the cardio and weight equipment and especially enjoyed our introduction to the variety of classes offered at the Y. The instructors were very knowledgeable and provided technical and motivational support that exceeded my expectations. Sharing this experience with other survivors was a valuable and rewarding benefit of the program. Their continued encouragement and willingness to open up about their similar doubts and fears gave me strength and inspiration. I am happy to share that I completed the Livestrong program and I am sad that it is over. The good news is that I am physically stronger. The great news is that I am emotionally stronger.

Feeling blessed, Theresa Yaczola