Houston Healthcare Introduces New Cancer Survivor Fitness Program
Houston Healthcare's Community Education and Services is introducing a new 12-week cancer recovery program for cancer patients and survivors beginning this month. The new program, called Survivors, combines health education, exercise and support to those individuals newly diagnosed with cancer.
According to Beth Jones, RNC, Director of Houston Healthcare's Community Education and Services, the goal of Houston Healthcare's Cancer Survivor Program is support and empowerment. "We want to support our cancer patients through their recovery process and treatment as well as help empower and strengthen them physically, mentally and spiritually to improve their quality of life and help make them a better informed patient," she explains.
Throughout the ongoing 12-week program, participants will learn what to expect during their treatment and how to cope with the side effects, ways to combat fatigue and stress, and how to eat properly to maintain their strength and health as well as how to communicate effectively with their physician and caregivers regarding their cancer and treatment plan. A maintenance program will also be made available to participants following completion of each 12-week session.
"Research shows that exercise can be very beneficial to a cancer patient, especially during the treatment process, in alleviating pain and boosting morale," comments Jones. "We encourage newly diagnosed cancer patients to register for the program as soon as they begin their treatment so they can reap the benefits of the exercise, group support and health education offered over the course of the 12 weeks."
The program's curriculum includes a different health topic each week related to living with and surviving cancer followed by a one hour group and/or individual exercise class. All sessions meet on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., and Thursdays from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. at Health Connections located in the Houston Mall.
The program is free to cancer survivors and one designated support person and/or caregiver of their choice. Orientation for new Survivors will be conducted at the beginning of each month. To register for the 12-week program, participants may call the Houston Health Pavilion EduCare Center at 923-9771.