When cancer treatment ended, Jen’s struggle wasn’t over.
“I was tired all the time,” she said. “Even the smallest task felt like a big challenge.”
“I remember trying to hang up a few shirts in my closet,” she recalls. “After hanging one or two, I had to stop and rest.”
Like many cancer survivors, Jen was navigating life after treatment without the strength or energy she once had. Then a YMCA staff member she trusted told her about the LiveSTRONG® at the YMCA program.
“It sounded like something that could really help me get my strength and energy back, so I decided to give it a try,” Jen recalls.
At first, Jen felt nervous about starting the program, but that quickly changed. “The instructor was so kind and encouraging. She explained the exercises and why they were important.”
Just as meaningful were the connections Jen made with the other participants. “The women in my group were wonderful, too. We shared our experiences, cheered each other on, and it started to feel like a little family. I looked forward to seeing them every week.”
Over the course of the program, Jen began to notice something powerful happening. Her energy returned. Everyday tasks felt manageable again. Her confidence grew.
Participants track their weights and repetitions during the program, and Jen remembers the moment she looked back at her progress. “I was honestly surprised when I saw where I started compared to where I ended. Seeing that progress was really motivating.”
The relationships Jen made and encouragement she received in the program also made an enormous difference.
“I don’t think I could have done it without the relationships I built in the program,” Jen said. “There’s always a million excuses, work, being tired, kids, etc. But because of the friendships I made, I didn’t even feel like making excuses. I actually looked forward to going and seeing everyone.”
“Hearing the stories of the other women made me realize I wasn’t alone. Some of them were talking about traveling again and enjoying life. It showed me that I can continue to enjoy my life after this diagnosis.”
For Jen, the success of the program was about much more than her physical strength. “It’s not just about the exercises; it’s about the friendships, the encouragement, and realizing you are not alone in your journey. It really makes a difference.”
Her connection to the YMCA runs even deeper.
During her cancer treatment, Jen’s daughter attended the YMCA’s after-school program. “They were there for her when I couldn’t be. Knowing she was safe, happy, and able to just be a kid gave me so much comfort.”
When Jen couldn’t work because of treatment and medical bills piled up, the Y community stepped in again through Jeremy’s Giving Tree, ensuring her daughter had presents at Christmas.
“The YMCA has done more for me and my family than I could have ever imagined. The staff checked in on me the whole time. The Y became family for us.”
Today, Jen wants supporters to know how their generosity makes a difference.
“Because of donors, people like me get the chance to rebuild ourselves and feel normal again after cancer. I have more energy now, and I can play with my daughter again and handle daily tasks much more easily. Their support truly changes lives. It changed mine.”