Helping Patients with Cancer Take Active Steps Toward Recovery
An offering coordinated from the Cancer Resource Center at the William R. Bliss Cancer Center, Courage in Motion has grown to be more than just an exercise program—it represents a beacon of support for cancer patients navigating their treatment and recovery phases.
This unique program, underpinned by the generosity of donors through the Mary Greeley Foundation, includes both land and water classes designed specifically for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
Sandi Burgess, a 71-year-old breast cancer survivor, says her experience in Courage in Motion has been transformative.
"When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, it was a shock,” she says. “After my mastectomy, I realized I had to take active steps towards recovery."
The first step was joining Courage in Motion.
"The physical activities we do, like using weights and resistance bands, have helped me regain strength, particularly after the surgery which had weakened my chest muscles significantly," Sandi says.
Meeting Individual Needs
The program's fitness component is overseen by Brenda Vajgrt of Mary Greeley Medical Center. The land classes are currently held at Ames City Hall, but plans are in place to move to the new 60 Forward building just south of downtown Ames when it is completed. Sandi is an active participant in the land class, which has ten regular members.
In addition to the land class, a water class engages six participants, enhancing their treatment journey with gentle, therapeutic exercises. These aquatic sessions are held at the medical center's Rehab and Wellness facility, leveraging the healing properties of water to aid recovery.
After completing sessions with Brenda, participants can continue their fitness journey at Ames Racquet and Fitness with a 12-week membership provided at no cost. This extension ensures that patients maintain the momentum gained from the initial program.
Sarah Heikens, MSN, MPA, RN, OCN, NE-BC, Director of Oncology Services at Mary Greeley, emphasizes the comprehensive benefits of the program.
"The benefits of regular exercise for cancer patients are well-documented,” she says. “Regular movement during cancer treatment significantly mitigates common side effects like depression and 'chemo brain’. It also fosters a sense of community among participants, who often become close friends and support each other emotionally."
More than Muscle
According to Sarah, physical activity is paired with a natural, supportive environment where participants often forge deep connections with fellow patients, providing mutual support and encouragement.
Sandi says her involvement in Courage in Motion extends beyond physical rehabilitation; it is intertwined with emotional and social healing. Participants regularly share their experiences with cancer and the unique challenges that come with it. All of it helps in coping with the journey according to Sandi, who notes that fellow participants have formed a valuable support system for her.
Sarah adds the opportunity to actively participate in recovery in the group setting is of tremendous benefit.
"Our participants often develop strong bonds,” Sarah says. “It's a community of mutual support, where everyone understands what it's like to face cancer. They inspire each other to keep moving and keep fighting."
Tremendously Grateful
Sandi's story is testament to the difference Courage in Motion is making in the lives of participants. In its more than 15 years, the program has become a sanctuary for those amid cancer treatment.
Sandi adds that she is humbled that the Mary Greeley Foundation has seen the value of Courage in Motion and has continued to fund it as a vital resource for cancer patients.
“From the very bottom of my heart, I thank each and every individual who has donated to the Foundation to make this program available to people like me,” she says. “I’m not sure those donors can fully understand what their gift means. It is helping patients with cancer connect while facing recovery with strength and grace.”
