Situated within the walls of the CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center, lies BfitBwell, a cancer exercise program with one overall goal—to help promote the quality of life for those who have been diagnosed with cancer. Earlier this month, in an effort to expand its mission, BfitBwell partnered up with the Latino Cancer Task Force and the Colorado Cancer Coalition to host the Cancer Support Group Meeting. The collaborative event worked to form a community of those impacted by cancer and provided them with a platform to share experiences and learn more about the program.
The Cancer Support Group Meeting, which aimed to broaden outreach to the Spanish-speaking community, was hosted entirely in Spanish. Among one of the keynote speakers who attended was BfitBwell's cancer exercise specialist, Felipe Leon. The event, which took place inside the center, included a diverse range of complimentary classes, addressing both physical and mental health exercises. Totaling over 45 participants, the gathering brought together cancer survivors and caregivers, fostering a sense of community bound by a shared commitment to well-being—the very fundamental principle of BfitBwell.
Established in 2013, BfitBwell set forth with a distinctive standard in cancer support in mind. Using evidence-based research, the program has grown to offer expert evaluation to lead cancer-specific exercise training. Addressing not only physical fitness but also the intricate interplay between mental and physical health, BfitBwell aims to help cancer survivors reduce depression and anxiety, alleviate fatigue, increase strength and cardiovascular function, promote healthy lifestyle habits, and enhance overall quality of life.
The three-month exercise program is tailored for individuals currently undergoing treatment at the University of Colorado Cancer Center or within six months post-treatment. During these three months, participants embark on a personalized journey, navigating one-on-one and semi-private training sessions meticulously designed by a Cancer Exercise Specialist. Among one of BfitBwell’s participants is Ana Barquin, a cancer survivor from Guatemala. Thanks to the addition of offering the program in Spanish, individuals like Ana now have the opportunity to join and benefit from the transformative journey offered by BfitBwell. In just a few months, Ana reflects on her remarkable progress, expressing, "My body has gotten stronger; I've gained muscle… my heart rate has improved as well as my endurance.” Reflecting the holistic approach that BfitBwell follows, Ana adds, “The program has helped me a lot in the mobility of my body and in my mood."
Offering a deeper glimpse into the program, Marciela Villegas-Vazques, another BfitBwell participant, shares firsthand how the cancer exercise program has profoundly impacted her daily life. She reveals, “Before, I used to go to the store and had to sit down because I didn’t have energy to walk. Now, I can walk to the store and do my purchase and still have energy to go home and do chores.” Having also attended the event earlier this month, Maricela highlighted what she enjoyed most about the Cancer Support Group Meeting. She stated, “The talks they gave were very helpful and it let us know we are not alone... The exercises with art therapy helped a lot and helped me wake up both mentally and spiritually.”
As BfitBwell continues to evolve, it leaves a lasting impression on the landscape of cancer support. The recent Cancer Support Group Meeting illustrates how the program creates more than just fitness routines; it cultivates a sense of belonging, empowers individuals to navigate the emotional and mental challenges of cancer, and sparks a transformative journey towards well-being. BfitBwell's commitment to community support and well-being demonstrates its ability to go beyond the traditional boundaries of fitness programs and patient care. In the heart of the CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center, BfitBwell stands as a beacon of hope, weaving a tapestry of support, resilience, and an elevation of well-being.
To learn more about BfitBwell or to apply for the program, please visit our website.
