Tag: fitness

This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. In order to participate and receive the Zoom link, you must register here or by emailing carla@smithcenter.org

with Bonnie Vermillion

Healthy-Steps, Moving you to better health with the Lebed Method is a therapeutic, evidence-based exercise program originally designed for persons with or at risk for lymphedema. Because it is done slowly and smoothly, it is attractive to almost anyone with various chronic conditions. Not only does it improve the lymphatic system, often called the immune system, but it improves balance and flexibility. The program can be done on land, seated or standing, and in the water. Participants are encouraged to stop or slow down when tired and only do movements that do not create pain. Healthy-Steps is designed to be fun while improving overall health. For more information, please visit our website at www.gohealthysteps.com and attend our virtual class through Smith Center for Healing and the Arts.

 

About Bonnie Vermillion

I am a Cancer survivor/thriver since 1998 and have had lymphedema since 2002. I initially had so much trouble finding information on lymphedema that I went online and found an exercise program that was developed to maintain lymphedema. I became an instructor, then trainer, and finally acquired the program in 2014. I currently teach classes in central Virginia. I’m also a regional coordinator for Chronic Disease Self Management workshops, so actively work with small groups of participants for them to self-manage their chronic conditions. I am also a volunteer Ombudsman with the local Agency on Aging and a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association as a support group facilitator and speaker.

This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. Please register here to receive the Zoom link to participate.

with Michelle Stravitz and Ilana Gamerman

Exercise is so important, especially if you’ve had a cancer diagnosis! Michelle Stravitz and Ilana Gamerman of 2Unstoppable will present the research and share practical guidance, tips, and resources to help you keep moving and stay strong. We know it’s hard and we can help you get started.

Suggested Donation: $15

 

About Michelle Stravitz

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Michelle Stravitz is a PCI-Certified Parent Coach, holds an MS from The GWU, and BS Engineering and BS Economics degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. Founding 2Unstoppable brings together a wealth of experience and passion advising and serving on the boards of various non-profit organizations and running a small management consulting firm. Michelle is the CFO of Spectrum Management Consulting and is also a professional event coordinator. She has served as a peer supporter for women of all ages undergoing treatment for breast cancer, both informally and through organizations such as Sharsheret and Life With Cancer. She lives in Fairfax VA with her husband, four children, and one dog.

About Ilana Gamerman

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Ilana Gamerman is a Registered Nurse with a Masters degree in Nursing Informatics.  Her combined passion for helping people and for exercise is what drives her motivation to help every woman diagnosed with cancer become unstoppable. Ilana’s co-founding of 2Unstoppable is driven by her dedication to fitness, healthcare and helping others. She lives in Vienna, VA with her husband and has three sons.

with Danielle Ferris, MS, OTR/L, CLT

45-minute Group Exercise class. Pump It Up PINK! Features a full body workout set to upbeat music. Using The Strength ABC program, based on the PAL Trial, participants will participate in progressive weightlifting through a series of core, upper body and lower body exercises using light weights. Exercises involve mat work on the floor level and in standing. Modifications to exercises are available based on individual needs. Following the class, participants will participate in informal education session with tips for management of lymphedema, risk reduction tips and Q&A.

Pump It Up PINK! Is a 45 minute full body group exercise class created from the Strength ABC program. The Strength ABC program is based on the Physical Activity and Lymphedema (PAL) Trial which assessed the safety and efficacy of slowly progressive weightlifting for breast cancer survivors with or at risk for lymphedema. The results of the PAL trial were published in the New England Journal of Medicine, JAMA, and the Journal of Clinical Oncology among other peer-reviewed scientific journals. This weightlifting intervention decreased lymphedema exacerbations by 50%; decreased the onset of lymphedema by 70% (among women with 5+ nodes removed); improved body composition, body image, and upper body symptoms; and prevented the decline in physical function that is observed to occur in breast cancer survivors.

Upcoming Classes:

  • March 11

Suggested Donation: $10

 

About Danielle Ferris, MS, OTR/L, CLT

Danielle Ferris is an Occupational Therapist with a speciality in oncology rehabilitation. She provides one on one treatment sessions to clients at Body Wellness DC in Dupont Circle. She has experience in evaluating and treating differential diagnosis related to pre/post breast cancer treatments. Danielle is recognized by the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT). She has also completed training through Klose Training related to breast cancer rehabilitation, and is certified to implement and train individuals in the Strength After Breast Cancer exercise program.

With Bryant Johnson, Personal Trainer to RBG and Author of The RBG Workout, Michelle Stravitz, co-founder, 2Unstoppable, Ilana Gamerman, co-founder, 2Unstoppable

Join us for an afternoon of Motivation, Conversation, and Empowerment!  Meet Bryant Johnson – Supreme Court justice and octogenarian Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s personal trainer and author of The RBG Workout, How She Stays Strong and You Can, Too. 

As seen on Stephen Colbert and in the recent documentary, The RBG Movie, and featured in the book, The Notorious RBG, Bryant Johnson has been training Justice Ginsburg since 1999 when she completed treatment for colorectal cancer.  They’ve been working out together ever since!  Books and special-edition Super Diva! t-shirts will be available for purchase. Book signing to follow.

Suggested Donation: $15

Our programs are open to the community and tailored to meet the needs of people affected by cancer. Classes and workshops are free or low cost on a pay-as-you-can basis, ensuring that our programs are accessible to everyone. All donations support future programming at Smith Center.

About 2Unstoppable

 2Unstoppable is a non-profit whose mission is to encourage and support exercise among women who have had a cancer diagnosis. Free online fitness buddy matching, oncology fitness resources, and community events at www.2unstoppable.org