PALS for Life

PALS for Life Welcomes Anyone Who Has Been Affected by Breast Cancer

A FREE safe and effective research-based Small Group Training Program for Breast Cancer Survivors following the University of Pennsylvania PAL (Physical Activity and Lymphedema Study) protocol. PALS for Life welcomes anyone who has been affected by breast cancer. A doctor referral and consultation with a physical therapist is required to participate. PALS for Life welcomes anyone who has been affected by breast cancer, with a doctor referral and physical therapy consult after 6-8 weeks post radiation and/or chemotherapy.

 

Who Is PALS For?

Upper Valley Aquatic Center wants PALS for Life to bring safe and effective research-based exercise to as many breast cancer survivors as possible! PALS for Life welcomes anyone who has been affected by breast cancer (6-8 weeks post radiation, post chemotherapy). All survivors are encouraged to stay active. Strength training, if performed correctly and with proper guidelines, is very safe and extremely beneficial for those who have, or may be at risk for lymphedema.

How Can I Participate?

  • If you have been affected by breast cancer
  • Doctor referral and Physical Therapist consult required
  • Must have finished chemotherapy and radiation (6-8 weeks)
  • 6-8 weeks post radiation and/or chemotherapy
  • Register by contacting Erin Buck [email protected] or call 802-296-2850 ext 112

What is Lymphedema?

It is caused by a blockage in the lymphatic system that can occur after breast cancer surgery-and/or radiation treatment. The blockage prevents lymph fluid from draining well and, as fluid builds up, swelling occurs. Experts estimate that 5% to 40% of women will experience some level of lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. The PALTrials sought to examine the role of weightlifting both of breast cancer survivors with and at risk for lymphedema. The study found that a slow progressive weightlifting regimen allowed women to put activity back into their daily lives and did not increase their risk of developing lymphedema. In fact, women with lymphedema saw a significant decrease in the size of their affected arm and were better able to complete activities of daily living.

PALS Is Changing Lives

  • “Training has helped my lymphedema symptoms and swelling. I see that it is safe for me to actually lift things again.”
  • “My mood has improved. My mood is dampened if I miss exercise sessions.”
  • “I enjoy exercising with other women who have been through the same treatment. We are all doing the same thing- we are getting stronger and moving forward with our lives.”
  • “Exercise has become an important part of my life and has been a key component of my recovery.”
  • “My doctor loves that I am doing this. He says I look wonderful.”
  • Personal Training for breast cancer survivors is NOT a luxury-it is a positive step towards well-being.”
PALS for Life is a FREE grant funded program. Thanks to a generous donation from the Couch Family Foundation for supporting this program.

Donate to PALS TODAY!

Your generous donation helps breast cancer survivors emotionally and physically by helping to fund their participation in Breast Cancer Programs at UVAC.

CREDIT CARD

CHECK
UVAC FINANCIAL AID FUND
PO Box 1198
White River Junction, VT 05001

PHONE
802-296-2850 ex 113
Give with a credit card over the phone during business hours

FREE UVAC Membership with full use of the facilities and equipment
FREE small group training
FREE land and aquatic fitness classes
Lymphedema Seminar provided by staff from Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center

Dates & Pricing

Dates:

September 12-December 7, 2023 T/TH @ 10:30am-11:25am Group-Ex Studio

2024
January 9-April 4 T/TH @ 9:00am-10:00am Small Group Training
April 8- July 2 T/TH @ 9:00am-10:00am Small Group Training

Times:

September 12-December 7, 2023 T/TH @ 10:30am-11:25am Group-Ex Studio

2024
January 9-April 4 T/TH @ 9:00am-10:00am Small Group Training
April 8- July 2 T/TH @ 9:00am-10:00am Small Group Training

Member Price:

PALS is FREE for members and non-members!

Non-Member Price:

PALS is FREE for members and non-members!

Not a member? Find out more!
Register here
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