The Cancer Lifestyle Program

A Collaborative Program of the Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center and the Johnson Cancer Center

The Cancer Lifestyle Program is designed for those who are going through or have completed chemo or radiation therapy. The Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center is a state-of-the-art facility and an excellent place to exercise and regain your strength.

When you take part in the Cancer Lifestyle Program, you will meet many people who can help you. These include exercise specialists, dietitians, and nurses, who will be able to answer your questions about diet and exercise. Spiritual support is also available for those who are interested.

Program Goals:

• Prevent or decrease muscle weakness
• Maintain or increase muscle strength
• Maintain or increase appetite
• Decrease nausea
• Maintain or increase ability to take part in self-care and daily activities

Program Benefits:
Medical studies show that cancer patients who make exercise a part of their routine gain health benefits during and after their treatments.

• Decrease in depression
• Better sleep and reduced stress
• Better movement of arms and legs
• Maintain muscle tone and strength
• Decrease tiredness and nausea
• Strengthen the heart and lungs
• Improve ability to fight off illness
• Feel better about yourself
• Improve appetite

About the Classes:

• The classes will teach aerobic conditioning, strength training and flexibility exercises.
• These classes will be fit to meet each person’s level of conditioning.

Who can Participate?
Anyone who is currently being treated for cancer or has completed treatment within the past year.

What is Needed to Participate?


• An order from your doctor, which must include any limitations or restrictions.
• An exercise enrollment form.
• The ability to do two exercise sessions per week for 12 weeks.

Program Cost:
The cost of the program is $5.50 per rehab session, which is billed to the patient. Insurance may cover the program cost. Each patient will need to check with his or her insurer regarding reimbursement.

For more information, call 231-672-3648.

The Cancer Lifestyle Program meets Tuesdays and Thursdays for scheduled classes. The Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Call 231-672-3648 to learn more about the Cancer Lifestyle Program at Mercy Health Partners.

Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center (Health Enhancement and Rehabilitative Therapy)
1212 E. Sherman Boulevard • Muskegon, MI 49444