COLUMBIA, Mo. — Ellis Fischel Cancer Center is seeking breast cancer survivors to participate in a free wellness program that focuses on exercise, nutrition and improving quality of life.

“Moving Forward” is a pilot program funded through a $13,000 grant from the Mid-Missouri Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The program was developed to address the wellness needs and challenges of breast cancer survivors.

“We are dedicating a program that makes breast cancer patients thrivers, not just survivors,” said Laura Neal, MSW, MPH, LCSW, coordinator of patient and family services at Ellis Fischel Cancer Center and one of the developers of the program. “By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and committing themselves to exercising regularly and eating healthy, research shows that breast cancer survivors reduce the chances of their cancer returning.”

To take part in the program, participants must be a breast cancer survivor and have completed acute treatment for breast cancer at least one year ago. Other requirements include attending a 12-week class beginning in January 2010, keeping a food and exercise journal, and participating in physical tests such as timed walk studies and lung tests.

Program participants will receive:
• A customized fitness plan
• Gym membership at the Activity and Recreation Center (ARC) in Columbia
• Fitness and nutrition information in collaboration with Hy-Vee
• Pedometers and exercise bands provided by the Columbia Multisport Club
• A gym bag and water bottle
• Cooking demonstrations and exercise classes
• Individualized and group interventions on nutrition, exercise and coping skills

To register, please contact Neal at (573) 884-1509 or e-mail neallm@health.missouri.edu.

Audio Files

Laura Neal, coordinator of patient and family services at Ellis Fischel Cancer Center