Exercise is for everyone - including people who have been diagnosed with cancer.
The program began in 2009 and has met with unprecedented demand. It has since been accessed by over 800 cancer patients.
The Cancer Exercise program is open to people during any stage of treatment. Research has shown that the potential benefits of exercise for cancer patients are many, including a reduction in treatment side effects, (such as nausea, fatigue), improvement in strength and stamina as well as overall physical and emotional wellness. Many participants also find that the social element of a group setting adds another dimension to the program that is deeply meaningful.
Wellspring’s Cancer Exercise program was developed specifically for the needs of cancer patients by Jodi Steele, a physiotherapist who specializes in cancer rehabilitation. Under the supervision of an experienced Cancer Exercise leader, patients receive an individual assessment, personalized exercise program, and an opportunity to exercise with other patients. At the conclusion of the program, the professional leaders update each participant’s personal exercise program for continued exercise at home.
This program is safe for cancer patients who are in treatment and may be experiencing treatment side-effects. For added safety and to ensure that all health concerns are known, physician consent is required.
Leader Story - Jodi Steele
Jodi is the developer of Wellspring's Cancer Exercise Program, she also leads the program at Wellspring Halton-Peel. Click here to learn more about Jodi.
Member Story - Marcia
Marcia is a member at Wellspring Westerkirk House learn more about her journey while participating in the Cancer Exercise Program.
Professional Training
If you are a Health Care or Fitness professional wanting to learn more about treating people living with cancer, please visit the Professional Training Centre.
What Wellspring Members have said about the Cancer Exercise Program...
"...When I first started my fatigue was severe. Phase 2 [of the program]enabled me to work at a higher level to combat the fatigue. It has really helped."
"It's really beneficial to be exercising with people in the same cancer journey."
"As I have side effects from the chemo throughout my body, the exercise helped me to overcome those body side effects ie. fatigue syndrome, back pain, leg pain etc. Thank you that you provide us with this program."
"Range of motion in my left arm greatly improved. I desire to get up each day and felt less tired. 'Can do' attitude - more energy."
"It would be wonderful if all cancer patients could take advantage of this truly wonderful program. My life has improved so much, not only due to this program but all the things Wellspring has to offer. You are ALL angels."
"This program is wonderful and I am thankful to Wellspring that we can benefit as much from this facility and the wonderful personnel. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."