YMCA of the Triangle

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FOR HEALTHY LIVING
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Jen: We Build Strength

A year ago at age 34, Jen was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, a form of breast cancer. After her diagnosis, Jen assembled a team that included surgeons, oncologists and the YMCA.

Through the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program, Jen discovered a supportive community that understood what she was experiencing while recovering from a bilateral double mastectomy.

“I loved how many of the trainers were also cancer survivors and could relate to what I was going through. I got the push I needed to keep moving, but I had the oversight to ensure I wasn’t going to overdo it or hurt myself.”

Last year, after chemotherapy, Jen was too weak to pick up her youngest daughter. Today, she can pick up both daughters and lead a 75-minute workout with her peers. She chronicles her breast cancer journey through her blog and social posts that feature her regular Y workouts.

“LIVESTRONG helps cancer survivors by showing them what they can do. Cancer treatments take a lot away from you - mental and physical energy being the primary targets - but LIVESTRONG allows survivors to see that there’s life after treatment.”

“People need to realize that the Y isn’t a place you go just to do one thing—it’s a place where you can experience life and fellowship with others. The Y is vital to our people ecosystem.”