Moving On from breast cancer
About 10.5 million Americans have
dealt with a diagnosis of cancer. And,
each person has his or her own way
of coping. Paula Gaehring, who was
diagnosed with breast cancer, went
through great lengths to keep a
positive attitude.
The Haddon Heights resident underwent
chemotherapy followed by a
mastectomy and radiation therapy.
"Throughout my ordeal, I was
concerned about my future," says
Gaehring. "But I maintained a
positive outlook due to my
strong faith in God and the
great clinical care I received
at Virtua Voorhees Hospital
and Summit Surgical Center.
Exercising through
Virtua's Moving On
program played a
major part in the
healing process. It
provided additional
emotional and
physical strength."
Moving On is a
fitness and exercise
program recommended
for those who have become
physically weak or deconditioned
from cancer or its treatment. The
program helps participants build
muscle mass and strength to increase
flexibility and endurance.
With trainer Marjie Zimmerman
at the William G. Rohrer Center for
HealthFitness, Gaehring exercises two
days a week. Her regimen includes
cardiovascular activities, strength
training, and stretching and relaxation
techniques.
"The exercises gave me strength
after the chemotherapy sessions and
then after the mastectomy," says
Gaehring. "I have nearly full use of my
arm and do not need to have physical
therapy. The nurse thinks doing those
exercises ahead of the surgery helped
with my recovery."
For more information about this
Fox Chase Virtua Health program,
call 1-888-Virtua-3 (1-888-847-8823).