LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA:
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is an evidence-based, 12-week health and wellness program designed for adult cancer survivors who have recently become deconditioned or are chronically fatigued from their treatment and the disease itself. The class meets twice per week. Medical clearance is a requirement for all participants.
The goal of the small group series is to help participants build muscle mass and strength, increase flexibility and endurance, and improve functional ability. Participants receive a free family membership with program enrollment. (An $82 monthly value.)
Once enrollment paperwork and clearance have been submitted (see below), please contact Shashu Baraka to schedule your in-person intake appointment. The in-person intake appointment completes your enrollment for the desired session. Due to the nature and structure of the program, once the session begins, enrollment is closed. Late inquiries will be waitlisted for the next session.
2025 Session Dates
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Session I: Tues, 1/7 - Thurs, 3/27/25 (Registration dates: Mon, 10/21 - Fri, 12/6/24)
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Session II: Tues, 4/8 - Thurs, 6/26 (Registration dates: Mon, 2/17 - Fri, 3/21)
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ession III: Tues, 9/2 - Thurs, 11/20 (Registration dates: Mon, 7/21 - Fri, 8/22)
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
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LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Intake and Enrollment Form
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LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Medical Clearance Form
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LIVESTRONG_ Authorization Packet
TESTIMONIALS
"I enrolled in the program in September. I have never joined a gym, I never played sports, and I always worked a sedentary job. My only exercise was walking and light Pilates. I was always skinny until I went through menopause . My bad eating habits and lack of exercise took a toll on my health. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September of 2023.
As you would imagine I was apprehensive about the program. I had little strength and balance. I could only do 25lbs as max on the leg press. Each week I felt better and stronger. I was inspired by the other survivors who had a more harrowing cancer experience than I. Shashu is an excellent trainer. She is very patient while pushing us to our potential. I greatly appreciate her expertise.
I would highly recommend this program. The cardio and strength training were phenomenal. I enjoyed the other classes in the program such as cardio drumming, yoga, and cycling. The trainers in these classes were very knowledgeable as well.
With Shashu’s guidance , always making sure we had proper form, I gained strength, flexibility, and balance. I have a max of 155lbs on leg press! I feel this program has been beneficial to my continuing cancer free journey." —Linda M.
"The Livestrong Program provides a valuable step towards recovery from a cancer journey. From your first day of assessment to graduation 12 weeks later, you gain confidence that there is recovery, a path forward, that you can regain control and trust that your body will be yours again. The cancer journey creates a "life-interrupted" path and being with people who understand the fight and know firsthand that some days it's OK to not be OK is invaluable. And then there is our cheerleader, Shashu, she is just the right dose of sunshine and "kick assery"...if that's a word, that we need. She is encouraging, insightful, kind and present for each of us as we struggle to get our bodies back online. Thank you Shashu and YMCA of Kalamazoo! "—Cindy
"Uplifting experience - literally! I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting everyone and growing in mind, body, and spirit. This is a super program and brings life back into focus for cancer survivors. Good work is being done here. Thanks to all for the encouragement. Bless you, all."—Linda
"Thank you! Thank you! I enjoyed this program, and what it brings to all of us cancer survivors and those still in treatment. What a fun group to be a part of. I am stronger by far because of this program. Thank you, Cancer Center and the Y, for providing this well-adjusted program. I'd recommend it for all those going through challenges."—Sharron
