The Pink Ribbon Program: Fighting Back After Breast Cancer
Introduction
I can clearly remember my dear friend Chris coming to me after a doctor’s appointment with the diagnosis she’d just been given—breast cancer. We hugged each other tightly and cried, both of us in a state of shock. Chris had a smile that lit up the room and was always encouraging others with her energy and positivity. Now she was overwhelmed, frightened and crushed.
Approximately 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. With that diagnosis comes an overpowering combination of emotions—fear, confusion, desperation, anger. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation may follow, taking an additional toll on the body and spirit.
Treatment can lead to physical weakness, loss of mobility and a sense of defeat. But the human spirit is a marvelous thing.
While the road to recovery can be challenging, the right exercise program can help breast cancer survivors regain their strength, both physically and mentally.
While Chris and her doctors were formulating their treatment plan, I was searching for a way I could contribute to her recovery. Chris had done Pilates with me for years, so she was going into this with a strong body. How could I help her safely regain that strength? After much research I found the Pink Ribbon Program and immediately signed up for their certification.
The Pink Ribbon Program
The Pink Ribbon Program is the only both medically and Pilates based fitness program designed specifically for breast cancer patients to facilitate recovery. This program is suitable whether treatment was recent or several years ago, and it is appropriate for all fitness levels. The exercises in this program are intended to help stretch and strengthen the shoulder, chest, back and core, allowing the patient to improve range of motion and strength to those areas most affected by breast cancer treatment and reconstruction. Some of the benefits include:
Improved strength and mobility in the affected areas
Enhanced energy levels
Decreased stress and anxiety
Reduced pain and swelling
Better body alignment and posture
Improved functional ability and quality of life
Rehabilitation is a key component in the treatment of breast cancer. My goal is to provide knowledge, guidance and support in a caring environment. Every one-on-one session is developed to address the individual’s needs and goals. Together, Chris and I worked to allow her to return to all of the activities she’d enjoyed before her diagnosis. She was a fighter every step of the way, never giving up or giving in. Let me help you get back to living…not just surviving!
Linda Wirtz
Balanced Body Pilates Instructor
Pink Ribbon Program Breast Cancer Exercise Specialist
