MHP Kicks Off Lifestyle Program for Cancer Patients

February 23, 2006—Chemotherapy and radiation can take a lot out of person who is being treated for cancer. The side effects of the treatment can include nausea, fatigue, pain and even depression. To help cancer survivors through this difficult time the Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center has started a new program called the Cancer Lifestyle Program.

The Cancer Lifestyle Program is designed for those who are going through or have completed chemotherapy or radiation. While enrolled in the program patients have access to the Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center’s workout facilities. They exercise together twice weekly under the direction of an exercise physiologist. They also have access to other professionals at the Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center including a dietician for nutritional guidance, nurses for general health information, and a pastoral care associate for spiritual support.

“The idea for this program initially came from our patients. We had cancer survivors working out here who said that they wanted a program that was just for them,” explains Lisa Sitler, Exercise Physiologist and Coordinator of the program. The staff began doing research and found other places nationwide that were offering such programs.

The staff also found numerous studies that stated the importance for exercise, especially for those undergoing chemotherapy. Exercise is said to decrease depression, tiredness, stress and nausea, while improving the patient’s sleep, muscle tone, strength, appetite and ability to fight off illness. Overall the Cancer Lifestyle Program is meant to help the patient’s better go about their daily activities, improving their quality of life.

The program officially began this winter and so far three patients are enrolled. “It’s amazing how much improvement I’ve seen in the patients since they started. They tell me that they feel better. Being part of this program has definitely made a difference for them,” adds Sitler. “The patients in the program also act as a support group for one another. They can share their experiences and help each other through the hard times.”

A physician referral is required for this program. Sessions are held twice weekly over the course of 12 weeks. There is a small fee for the program, which in some cases may be covered by the patient’s insurance.

For more information about this program or to meet a patient who is currently participating in the program, contact Kelly Kurburski, Communications Manager at 231-672-4885.