YMCA LIVESTRONG program helps cancer survivors stay active

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The YMCA's LIVESTRONG program gives cancer survivors a free YMCA membership and training.

The program takes the first 12 participants to sign up for a 12-week program, with two 90-minute sessions per week for ages 18 and up.

Trainers will help participants focus on their fitness goals and will assist those who need help if they have physical restraints.

"I'm a cancer survivor, so it's very special to my heart because I would have loved to have had this program when I was going through my cancer and so I just see the benefits, and I just want to be a part of it because it's a special group of people," Fitness Instructor Brenda Smith said.

Linda McNeely is now in her fourth year as the LIVESTRONG coordinator and said the program holds a special place in her heart.

"I have to tell you that I get so attached to these people, they just become, like, part of my family," said McNeely.

According to the CDC, keeping a healthy weight and staying physically active helps lower the risk of cancer survivors developing other cancers.

To qualify for the program, participants must have a doctor's release form and a list of their restrictions.

The program begins on Jan. 5, 2026. Interested participants can contact the YMCA of St. Joseph at 816-671-9622.