Wilton Kiwanis Makes Large Donation to Y’s Live Strong Program

The Kiwanis Club of Wilton awarded the Wilton Family Y a grant of $3,000 towards the Y's personalized wellness program for cancer survivors, which is currently serving 28 patients who have been referred by Norwalk Hospital. 

The funds will be used to provide free memberships and training sessions for people undergoing treatment for cancer to improve their stamina and strength during the rehabilitation period. 

"Live Strong at the Y" began in June 2010 as a collaboration between the Y and Norwalk Hospital to help people undergoing cancer therapy and other chronic disease treatment stay in good physical condition.  It includes a three month membership, personalized counseling, exercise classes and one-on-one cardio/strength training.  Since health insurance often does not cover this type of program, the Y offers it at no charge through the support of grants and outreach funding provided by organizations such as the Kiwanis Club. 

"We are so grateful to Kiwanis for providing such a generous contribution to this important initiative we have undertaken with Norwalk Hospital," said Y Executive Director Bob McDowell. "The people we have been able to help are immensely appreciative for the safe, welcoming environment at the Y to improve their physical conditioning as they undergo the rigors of cancer treatment.  Our fitness staff is fully certified to work with cancer patients, and their concern and caring provides real support for each person.  We hope to keep expanding the program so that as many people in the community who can benefit from it can be included."

For more information on "Live Strong at the Y" contact Fitness Director Mary Ann Genuario at 762-8384 x 282.