Monday, July 14, 2008
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Cancer patients throughout Charlotte now have access to the region’s only certified cancer exercise specialists. Tara Ballard and Paul Downey, both exercise physiologists of the Presbyterian Cancer Center Strides to Strength program, passed the American College of Sports Medicine (ASMC) cancer exercise beta certification test, which marked a new joint venture with the American Cancer Society.
Strides to Strength, a 24-session exercise and fatigue management program, improves physical and emotional recovery by focusing on exercise, nutrition, support and education. Though most recent studies highlight the benefits of cancer exercise, they also indicate that a wealth of knowledge and training are key to success of the patients. Strides to Strength is unique in the sense that it offers oncology-trained technicians, a clean, secluded workout area, privacy for patients and ongoing programs that complement fatigue management.
Since establishing the cancer rehabilitation/fatigue management program back in 2000, Ballard, Presbyterian Cancer Rehabilitation & Wellness manager, has come to be known as an innovator in the field. “We place special interest in the idea of cancer survivorship,” said Ballard. “Living through cancer is about more than just medicine and treatment; it’s about health and quality of life today and in the future.”
When asked about what this new certification means to patients, Ballard remarked, “Having certified instructors and licensed nurses, nutritionists and psychotherapists is needed to ensure the safest quality care for the patient. I want people to come in thinking, ‘I don’t have to worry, I know that you understand how to care for me.’”
Ballard and Downey were chosen to take the beta test because of their expertise in cancer rehabilitation and Ballard’s participation in the ACSM special interest group. In addition to Strides to Strength, Presbyterian Cancer Rehabilitation & Wellness offers yoga, massage, nutrition and lymphedema services.
