PARTNERS IN RECOVERY
CANCER SURVIVORSHIP
A supportive community is a big part of health and wellness. Our mission drives us to ensure everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive in a nurturing environment.“Through this program I have found a part of the person I had hidden away during cancer treatment. It allowed me to feel ‘normal’ again! This is a very important program and I am blessed to be a part of it.”
THRIVING BEYOND CANCER
This FREE 12-week supportive wellness program helps cancer survivors before, during and after treatment. Participants build strength, confidence and meaningful connections with others who understand their journey.
Research shows that exercise tailored to the individual is safe and beneficial for people of all fitness levels throughout the cancer experience. Combined with the encouragement of a community of fellow survivors, the program offers benefits that extend beyond physical activity.
Through guided exercise and social connection, participants strengthen their spirit, mind and body while improving their overall quality of life. By focusing on wellness instead of illness, Thriving Beyond Cancer empowers survivors to move forward with renewed strength, hope and resilience.
RECOGNIZED FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT
Waves Against Cancer Community Impact Award
The YMCA of San Diego County is proud to be recognized with the 2026 Waves Against Cancer Community Impact Award, honoring our dedication to improving the lives of individuals affected by cancer through health, healing and survivorship programs.
Presented by Legends of Science & Surfing and UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, this recognition reflects the impact of our Cancer Survivorship program and the strength of the community that makes it possible.
Dana’s Journey
The YMCA has always been a special place for Dana Sobotka and her family, but in 2017, it became a vital source of support. After being diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing a double mastectomy and chemotherapy, Dana turned to the YMCA’s Cancer Survivorship program.
As a lifelong athlete, Dana appreciated having something to look forward to each week, but the program offered much more than exercise. “There was a group of us. Different ages, different fitness abilities. The camaraderie was wonderful,” she shared.
Today, Dana is cancer-free. With support from the YMCA, her family and friends, she found the strength and community she needed to rebuild her life — one step at a time.
As Dana says, “One foot in front of the other still crosses the finish line.”
Cancer Survivorship Program Overview
- 12-week small group program
- Meets twice a week for 75 minutes (each)
- Participants are given a complimentary Family membership to the Y for the duration of the program
Program Goals
- Increase flexibility and endurance
- Enhance functional ability to do everyday tasks
- Improve energy levels, build muscle mass and strength
- Reduce the severity of therapy side effects and prevent unwanted weight changes
- Develop an ongoing physical fitness program, not only as part of recovery but as a way of life
How to Register for Cancer Survivorship at the Y
Those with a strong personal desire to reclaim their health and are ready to commit themselves to this program are welcome to register with us today. Before registration, potential participants must:
- Inform their physician that they plan to join the program
- Contact us at sandiegohealth@ymcasd.org.
Partners in Recovery Program Locations
This program is available at the following YMCA locations:
- Border View Family YMCA in San Ysidro
- Cameron Family YMCA in Santee
- Copley-Price Family YMCA in City Heights
- Dan McKinney Family YMCA in La Jolla
- Jackie Robinson Family YMCA in National City
- Joe & Mary Mottino Family YMCA in Oceanside
- John A. Davis Family YMCA in La Mesa
- Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA in Encinitas
- McGrath Family YMCA in Spring Valley
- Mission Valley YMCA in Mission Valley
- T. Claude & Gladys B. Ryan Family YMCA in Point Loma
- Rancho Family YMCA in Rancho Peñasquitos
- South Bay Family YMCA in Chula Vista
- Shepherd YMCA Firehouse in La Jolla
- Toby Wells YMCA in Kearny Mesa
ADELE’S STORY
Adele, a Rancho Family YMCA member and former Cancer Survivorship participant, shares her experience in the program and her gratitude for the generous donations from the Annual Campaign that help fund it:
“After I was diagnosed with breast cancer last summer, a good friend of mine encouraged me to check out Cancer Survivorship. I was hesitant at first, because I had already started chemo. But from the first session, I felt comfortable and I found community over the next 12 weeks…. Our group bonded on so many different levels, and I was so encouraged through it all — even on days that were tougher for me physically because of my treatment… I just wanted to say thank you to everyone whose generosity has made that possible for me and for countless others.”
