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What is Fit for Survival?
The Shaw Regional Cancer Center created Fit for Survival as an exercise program designed specifically for any person with cancer or any survivor of cancer. The program is a comprehensive fitness program that will assess your physical health through different testing procedures and from those results an individualized program will be designed specifically for you
I’m going to Physical Therapy already. Should I do more?
Your physical therapy program will complement your customized Fit for Survival program. You may need physical therapy to regain functional strength in specific areas or to promote better posture. Physical therapy will be conducted by Christine Hasselbach.
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Is Fit for Survival an exercise class?
Fit for Survival is not an exercise class. It is a specific fitness program designed to help you regain wellness and promote a better quality of life. Exercise classes are offered to patients as a complement to the program.
back to topWhat exercises classes are offered at the Shaw Regional Cancer Center?
Currently we have gentle yoga on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10. We also have a group Hike/Snowshoe trek on Thursday mornings at 11. All of these classes are offered to patients and cancer survivors alike.
back to topWho will I work with during Fit for Survival?
You will work Dustin Buttars a certified Cancer Exercise Specialist and in some cases Christine Hasselbach, a physical therapist and certified lymphedema therapist.
back to topHow often will I have Fit for Survival?
Two or three days a week you will see Dustin, the Exercise Physiologist, and during the sessions he will implement the individualized fitness program which will consist of cardiovascular, strength and flexibility components.
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I don't feel well. Is Fit for Survival for me?
Due to the many side effects treatment can have on the body it is best to consult with your oncologist about whether or not Fit for Survival is right for you. Exercise can have positive benefits while going through treatment, but if your body is not ready then you should wait. Your oncologist will know when the appropriate time for you to start will be.
back to topI just received a cancer diagnosis, when should I start Fit for Survival?
You should start Fit for Survival as soon as possible. You should also get a prescription from your doctor that will include the number of sessions they would like you to perform physical therapy, if needed, as well as any limitations, timeframes or cautions while engaging in physical activity. The sooner you can start exercising or being physically active the better of a chance you will have at reducing the negative side effects of cancer and its treatment.
back to topI’m receiving cancer treatment at the Shaw but I live in another state? Is Fit for Survival for me?
Fit for Survival is available to all patients of the Shaw. If you live in another state, we have Jack's Place available for you to use. It is offered to all of our out of town patients. Brandon Mays is our manager and will be able to provide more information. You can reach him at 970-569-7645 or toll free at 866-569-7429 or by email at mays@vvmc.com. The Fit for Survival program is in place to help all cancer patients have a better quality of life no matter how long the stay. If you are only here for a month, a month of physical activity is better than none. During your stay at Jack's Place, one of the goals of the Fit for Survival program will be to educate you and give you the tools necessary to maintain an active lifestyle once you leave.
back to topWill my insurance cover Fit for Survival?
Insurance will not cover Fit for Survival. It is an out of pocket expense. The rate will be $6 per session or $72 for 12 sessions. We also offer a less frequent option of 8 sessions for $48. A long term goal, along with many other similar programs across the country, is to qualify cancer rehabilitation as a program covered by insurance.
back to topI’ve never exercised regularly before, is it too late to start?
It is never too late to start an exercise program. The sooner you start, the sooner you and your body reap the benefits of regular exercise. Even if you have never exercised before, Fit for Survival will build a program around you and your specific needs. We will start slow and gradually build up the strength and cardiovascular exercise to your personal tolerance. Exercise should be fun and should part of your daily routine. Through the Fit for Survival program, exercise will soon become a daily activity you look forward to because of the many benefits it provides. It will increase energy, make you think more clearly, rid your body of stress, increase endorphins (make you feel happy) and help you feel good about your body.
back to topHow does losing weight help cancer patients?
Losing body fat helps cancer patients in many ways both directly and indirectly. Decreasing body fat percentage is a direct result of increased activity. A study by the American Cancer Society showed that women who were more active, 6 hours a week of vigorous activity (jogging, swimming, running), decreased their risk of breast cancer by 30%. Another study showed that men and women who jogged the equivalent of 5 hours per week lowered their risk of colorectal cancer by 40%-50%.
Losing weight also decreases risk of developing complications from surgery such as having a mastectomy or lumpectomy. The time needed for recovery from surgery also decreases allowing you to get back to your daily routine sooner. Shorter recovery times lead to less protective posturing by the body to compensate for the weakened areas.
Fatigue is a very common issue with patients who are currently undergoing radiation or chemo or who have previously gone through either treatment. Not all patients experience fatigue. Those who do, experience different levels ranging from debilitating to mild. When your body is lighter and more efficient at performing daily activities, it will be better suited to battle any level of fatigue. back to top How can I learn more about Fit for Survival?
To learn more about Fit for Survival or schedule an appointment please call Dustin Buttars, Exercise Physiologist at 970-569-7493 or toll free at 866-569-7429. You can also call Christine Hasselbach at 970-569-7612. You may also email Dustin at Buttars@vvmc.com or Christine at Hasselbach@vvmc.com.
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Fit for Survival FAQ
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