Carole Cochran was very cautious about her limits with exercise when she signed up for Livestrong at the YMCA last spring. She was just recently back in commission after a devastating fall seven months prior in which she broke her neck and arm. Carole’s recovery was a long process, but when she was ready, she wanted to get back into shape.

As a breast cancer survivor, Cochran was eligible for the free Livestrong program.

“Livestrong at the YMCA eased me back into exercise and introduced me to new movements and programs that I didn’t know existed,” Cochran said. “I was able to explore and learn which ones I liked to do.”

“With the rest of the group, we learned to listen to each other, we bonded, and we celebrated each other’s progress,” she said. A small-group program, Livestrong is designed to guide cancer survivors through safe physical activity, help them build supportive relationships, and reduce stress — all of which lead to increased confidence and an improved quality of life. The Y provides a welcoming space and trained staff to support and facilitate the gradual learning and strengthening process that takes place.

Since completing the 12-week program, Cochran has regained her strength and confidence. She is back to teaching yoga and chair yoga, and is feeling great. She is already planning on paying it forward by volunteering as a guest instructor with the next Livestrong group, which is starting this fall.

“Health is wealth, and the older you get the more you realize it. The Y accepts people of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds and supports us in becoming more confident in what we can do to improve our health,” Cochran said. “I am so thankful for the Y.”

Livestrong is one of the many free and subsidized programs supported by the Boothbay Region YMCA’s Annual Fund. The next Livestrong at the YMCA class is Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m. starting on Sept. 22. Any adult 18 years or older who is living with or beyond cancer treatment is eligible. The program is 12 weeks long, free, and open to the community. Call the YMCA at 207-633-2855 to learn more or register.