yourhealth
I Am Thriving
An experience to empower cancer survivors By Nathan Collins “This is a really crappy ‘club’ to be a part of, but I’m so thankful to have met you ladies who are in it with me.” – past participant “This program made me feel whole.” – past participant Cancer has a major impact on the United States and across the world. In 2018, an estimated 1,735,350 new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. and 609,640 people died from the disease. On a happier note, in 2016, there were an estimated 15.5 million cancer survivors in the U.S. That number is expected to increase to 20.3 million by 2026.
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cityscenecolumbus.com | July 2019
Cancer support groups are designed to help people cope with all aspects of cancer diagnosis by providing a safe environment to share experiences and learn from others who have faced, or are facing, similar obstacles. These sobering numbers identified a need to support the health of cancer survivors – both physically and mentally. Columbus is taking action. Dr. Philip Heit, executive director and founder of Healthy New Albany, and his team have created the I Am Thriving program. “The premise is that a woman or man who is healthy and practices healthful habits will reduce his/her risk of recidivism of the
cancer,” says Heit. “So, we began a program which people meet with a health team, including a wellness coach, fitness specialist and nutritionist.” What is it? An eight-week peer-supported, community-based program at the Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany. Four Main Components
1Individualized wellness coaching sessions.
“Our health/wellness coach will help participants create an individualized action plan to reach their target goal(s),” says Kristina Isenhour, program manager at Healthy New Albany. 2Weekly educational meetings on various topics such as nutrition, healthy cooking, mindfulness and more. “The educational classes are so valuable,” says Isenhour. “For example, cooking classes are great because someone who’s undergone chemo or has had surgery, might have different dietary needs from another person, or that person’s own food preferences or health needs may have changed through treatment.” 3Twice-weekly, group-based exercise to introduce participants to various modes of exercise and build confidence. “A variety of different exercise modules are available to participants twice a week during the program to make sure they’re building fitness,” says Isenhour. “It’s also about breaking down that initial barrier of intimidation when a person steps into any kind of fitness facility.”