ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — In honor of World Cancer Day today, February 4th, the YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County highlights their cancer support services and support for survivors through their LIVESTRONG program.

Offered at no cost, LIVESTRONG is twelve weeks long and invites survivors to be part of a small group wellness program that helps them build back strength and confidence through physical activity.

“Cancer took so much away from me, but this program is one thing that cancer actually gave me,” says one LIVESTRONG participant. “The program is a very positive influence on my life to know I’m doing this and others are doing this. It’s designed exactly for me.”

In 2026, the YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County is launching Laurie’s Legacy with the help of the St. Agatha Foundation. A free, year-long, whole-person support program for individuals at any stage of breast cancer survivorship, participation in the program includes a full-year family YMCA membership. Program credits for YMCA classes, free drop-in childcare, and one-on-one guidance from a Cancer Support Coordinator are all included in Laurie’s Legacy as well.

“These programs have life-changing outcomes. Helping survivors rebuild not only their bodies but their resilience, their outlook on life, that’s the real impact,” says Kurt Kleefeld, Director of Community Health. “When participants graduate from the program and go on to mentor and even train to become coaches, it serves as a testament to the power of the program to heal, inspire, and connect with others.”

To register for LIVESTRONG at the YMCA or learn more about Laurie’s Legacy, those interested can contact Elizabeth Vitell, Cancer Support Coordinator, at livestrong@ithacaymca.com.