Exercise class serves cancer survivors

One of the eight dimensions of well-being at the University of North Georgia (UNG) is physical, which is why UNG is supporting cancer survivors through its "Happy, Alive and Built to Survive" (HABS) program.

The program started in 2018 and is designed to provide free exercise programs to cancer survivors. The goal of the program is to create a fun atmosphere for participants to not only reach their fitness goals, but to also connect with others including the program's trainers, who are certified specifically to assist cancer survivors and their unique needs as well as those of their friends and family members.

UNG implemented the exercise program last fall as an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and community members, who are cancer survivors, to engage in a cancer prevention activity without cost.  They can find register online to participate at the Dahlonega and Gainesville campuses or learn more on the LiveWell UNG physical well-being page.

"This program allows participants to provide and receive support from peers who have had similar shared experiences," Meri-Leigh Smith, associate director of wellness and health promotion, said.

The East Georgia Cancer Coalition (EGCC) sponsors HABS. The coalition has previously been involved in breast cancer awareness initiatives at UNG campuses, and the partnership opportunity for this program organically emerged last year.

Registration is limited to the number of trained instructors available during registration. However, the program will have additional opportunities.

Enrollment begins this month, and classes start in October. The program is open to cancer survivors who are at least 6 months removed from treatment.

UNG students are also encouraged to pursue a group fitness certification, and EGCC will pay for a cancer exercise education class to supplement their certification. The classes provide community service opportunities and a chance for students to engage with individuals they may not have had the opportunity to interact with. 

A pair of events are also scheduled to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month:

• UNG will host a virtual event discussing breast cancer at noon Oct. 26 with specialists from the Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education and the EGCC.
• A Pink Out will also be held Oct. 26. UNG encourages all students, faculty and staff to wear pink to create a sense of community and kinship among those who have experienced the effects of cancer, not just breast cancer but all cancer, either personally or through personal connections.