Livestrong Cancer Program Doubles Participation in Santa Barbara
Patricia Martellotti
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The YMCA’s Livestrong program for cancer patients is experiencing record growth in Santa Barbara, with participation nearly doubling over the past year.
Kiki Wells of Santa Barbara is battling stage four cancer.
But she isn’t backing down.
“My third goal was to say the word cancer ten times a day … the more you use it the more power you take away from it … and I think for a lot of people with cancer … that’s about the hardest, they’re fearful of it,” said Wells.
The YMCA Livestrong program in Santa Barbara has given her hope and strength during treatment.
“It gave me a sense of companionship and fun … and an easy way to make a positive experience when you’ve got cancer … You’ve gotta create your positive experiences,” said Wells.
The YMCA team has seen participation nearly double over the past year.
“Some of the branches had to drop the program when Covid happened due to losing staff … and so as we’ve been building our staff back, we gained more instructors … and so we’ve been able to offer the program. Each branch has a goal of offering it twice per year,” said associate executive director Andrew Aleman of YMCA.
The program provides free exercise and support classes, along with a family membership so loved ones can participate.
“It’s really getting them connected with a group where they have enjoyment out of the day, not just focusing on maybe doctors appointments,” said Aleman.
“So anything you do that either you enjoy or you do with people you love is gonna give you that boost,” said Wells.
For Wells, the program is a lifeline, helping her stay strong through cancer.
Organizers say the surge reflects a rising demand for exercise, emotional support, and a sense of community in the years following the pandemic.
Funded entirely by donations, the program provides free access to tailored fitness classes designed for cancer survivors at any stage of treatment or recovery.
Each participant also receives a complimentary family membership, allowing loved ones to join them in the gym for added encouragement.
YMCA leaders note that the expansion includes more staff and activities to keep pace with demand.
It costs about $250 to sponsor a single participant, and community fundraising ensures no one is turned away.