By Linda Muraca RN, BA, BScN, MN, Nurse Clinician, Marvelle Koffler Breast Centre
The "Taking Charge Program" began in 2006 after research showed that breast cancer survivors could reduce their risk of recurrence by having a healthy weight and by doing more physical activity. The program was developed by a nurse clinician, registered dietitian, exercise trainer and the breast cancer team at Mount Sinai Hospital. The Taking Charge Program offers five interactive group sessions every two weeks for patients who have finished active treatment.
The "Taking Charge Program":
- Is given in a group format.
- Suggests ways to improve after you complete a few days of diet and exercise tracking.
- Includes information on current research, helping you identify how ready you are to make changes.
- Power walking, strengthening and stretching,
- Diet information/food planning and cooking with the wellness chef in ELLICSR.
Here are a few comments from participants who completed the program:
- "…great to be in a group with common goals"
- "motivated me to become active again and make small changes in food which made a huge difference"
- "a valuable support for my weight control and exercise goals"
- "excellent transition from active treatment to getting back to everyday life"
- "…made me walk taller …"
Sessions include:
- Personal review of current diet and exercise activities
- Realistic weight goals
- Individualized diet and exercise plans
Location:
- Two sessions are held at Mount Sinai Hospital
- Three sessions are held at ELLICSR in Toronto General Hospital
Taking Charge is held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Contact Linda Muraca at 416-586-4800 ext. 5190 to enroll for the next free program.
