LIVESTRONG at the YMCA has been a life-changing experience for cancer survivor, Chris. What he thought would be a simple workout routine, turned out to be a program that offered physical wellness but also a support system that has helped his soul thrive.
Chris, a former NFL player, received some of the best physical training throughout his career. However, after being diagnosed with cancer, he realized that his physical training was not enough. When he joined LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, he discovered that stretching was an essential piece of the puzzle for his physical health. Along with the workouts, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA also provided him with nutrition sessions that helped him maintain a healthy diet.
What has also been a critical component of the process is connection, which he has found both at his place of treatment but also at the YMCA. “If I had to go through this by myself, I don’t know how I would do it,” he says. Chris participates in First Aid mental health and the Prostate Condition Education Council to help support others having a similar experience. He is a strong advocate for others, and knowing that African Americans are 70% more likely to die of prostate cancer, he encourages everyone to get check ups as soon as possible.
Today, Chris is cancer free, and the idea of continuing treatment has affected a variety of aspects of his physical health. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA has provided him with the support to continue on the path for a successful and healthy life. The workouts, the nutrition sessions and the support system are what keeps him and the others who are in the program thriving.
Chris, along with his fellow participants, completed the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program on April 6. If you would like to learn more about LIVESTRONG, contact us at livestrong@denverymca.org.