By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer
Westborough – Boroughs Family Branch YMCA in Westborough bustled with members and community leaders March 11 as they cycled or waited their turns to ride for a worthwhile cause.
Twenty teams, each consisting of up to five members, participated in the fourth annual Mission in Motion, a four-hour, indoor cycle-a-thon. Proceeds go to LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, a free 12-week health and well-being program with two 75-minute classes weekly for cancer survivors and their caregivers. Boosting the cyclists’ enthusiasm was Sharon Henderson, the YMCA of Central Massachusetts marketing and communications director.
“Cycling isn’t my thing,” she acknowledged. “I’m here to jump around and cheer for everyone. The need for this program continues to grow and we want to keep it free. It gives people comradery, so they’re not feeling alone. Families look forward to helping us with this every year.”
Among the Y members who return to this fundraiser annually is Ginger Murphy, the family matriarch of four generations that participated this year. Concurrently, they celebrated her 80th birthday.
“I exercise at the Y five or six days a week,” Murphy noted.
After LIVESTRONG at the YMCA was launched nationally in 2008, the program began at the Boroughs Y in 2013. The program is coordinated locally by Christine Salovardos.
“It doesn’t matter what stage of cancer they’re at; they can be in treatment or cancer-free for years,” she explained. “The program gives them the opportunity to connect with people who understand what they’re going through in a comfortable environment.”
Groups are limited to six participants. Days and times of classes are determined by the participants’ schedules. Already in 2017, the number expressing interest in the program has double since 2016, Salovardos noted.
“They come in with different stories and backgrounds,” she said. “Some had never exercised before and they’re learning how to do it. Others are learning how to exercise again. And some are in the midst of treatment when there are days they don’t want to get out of bed, but they come in here and do their best. We help them get comfortable using the equipment and show them that they can do things they didn’t think they were capable of doing. They’re carrying on and living healthier and more productive lives as a result of this amazing program.”
For LIVESTRONG registration information at the Boroughs Y, contact Salovardos at 508-870-1320, ext. 290, or [email protected]. For more information, visit ymcaofcm.org; click “Programs,” then “LIVESTRONG at the YMCA.” To donate at that website, click “Give,” then “Donate online.”
