Jen Sedeno - Livestrong at YMCA / Exercise for Survivorship | Testicular Cancer Conference 2024 presented by Fennec Pharmaceuticals

Jen Sedeno - Livestrong at YMCA / Exercise for Survivorship | Testicular Cancer Conference 2024 presented by Fennec Pharmaceuticals

At the 2024 Testicular Cancer Conference presented by Fennec Pharmaceuticals, Jen Sedeno, Director of Wellbeing Implementation at the YMCA of San Diego, presented the "Livestrong at the YMCA" program. This free, evidence-based exercise initiative is designed for adult cancer survivors during or after treatment, focusing on holistic wellness through physical activity and social support.

Key Points:

• Personalized Fitness Plans: Participants engage in cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, balance, and flexibility exercises tailored to their fitness levels. The program runs for 12 weeks with two 90-minute sessions per week in groups of 6 to 12 people.

• Household Inclusion: A complimentary household YMCA membership is provided during the program, acknowledging the family's role in the recovery journey.

• Social Connectedness: While not a traditional support group, the program fosters a community among survivors, enhancing psychosocial well-being and providing emotional support.

• Functional Assessments: Pre- and post-program evaluations measure fitness improvements and quality of life, including mental health aspects like sleep quality and fatigue.

• Goals and Benefits: The program aims to improve muscular strength, cardiovascular health, flexibility, and balance while reducing treatment side effects like fatigue. It also helps restore confidence, body image, and daily functioning.

• Accessibility: With multiple locations in San Diego and nationwide, the program is expanding to reach more survivors, emphasizing accessibility and community integration.

Fred Scott, a participant, shared how the program aided his transition after cancer treatment by providing a supportive environment and access to adaptive equipment like the E-Gym, which personalizes workouts based on individual needs.

Conclusion:

"Livestrong at the YMCA" offers a comprehensive approach to cancer recovery, combining personalized exercise with peer support to enhance physical and emotional well-being. The program helps survivors regain confidence, return to daily activities, and establish lifelong healthy habits within a supportive community.

The slides from Jen’s presentation can be downloaded here.