From May 3 through May 5, YMCA Camp Kresge was filled with laughter and celebration as 18 cancer survivors came together for a multi-day Livestrong at the YMCA retreat.
The retreat was held in preparation for National Cancer Survivor Month in June. There are currently 16.9 million cancer survivors in the United States. Despite the challenges of short-term and long-term effects of treatment, cancer survivors are resilient. The Greater WyomingValley Area YMCA celebrates survivors and encourages individuals touched by cancer to learnmore about how YMCA supports recovery in the Wyoming Valley area through our Livestrong at the YMCA program by contacting Kasey Wasylyk at 570-970-5022 or kasey.wasylyk@wvymca.org.
Located on 1,100 acres in the White Haven area, YMCA Camp Kresge hosts a myriad of outdooractivities for all ages. The retreat weekend serves all past and present cohorts of Livestrong,helping cancer survivors re-connect to each other and experience stress-reducing and strengthbuilding wellness programs in a pristine natural environment. The retreat lasts from Fridaynight to Sunday morning, with participants enjoying meals, campfires, and sleepingaccommodations in Camp Kresge’s newly upgraded cabins. Program highlights include livemusic on Saturday night, yoga, meditation, and being outside in nature— attendees commit tospending some time hiking and walking outside regardless of the weather.
One of the benefits of the Livestrong program is the life-affirming friendships cancer survivors make in the program, and the support they get from their peer survivors. The spring Livestrong retreat allows us to continue to support program alumni/ae and provides a place for them to reconnect with friends and share their on-going stories as survivors. A YMCA Livestrong staff leader stated that her biggest take away each year is all the laughter shared between people who really understand each other.
The Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA is a nonprofit, charitable organization turning no one away for inability to pay. The YMCA awards financial assistance to children, adults, and families in need across our communities in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Those who share a passion for healthy living may join in supporting this cause by donating wvymca.org. To learn how to qualify for financial assistance: (570) 823-2191.
