Cancer survivors receive support and connection through LiveSTRONG at the Y
The LiveSTRONG program at Andover/North Andover Y is a research-based physical and well-being initiative that helps people affected by cancer reach their holistic health goals. This program is available to cancer survivors and their families in our community.
During the 12-week program, offered at no cost, participants work with trained Y staff to build muscle mass and strength, increase flexibility and endurance, and improve functional ability through cardiovascular conditioning
The program also focuses on the emotional well-being of survivors by providing a supportive environment where people affected by cancer can connect during treatment and beyond. LiveSTRONG is open to adults 18 years or older Learn more at https://mvymca.org/program/livestrong/
Two of our recent LiveSTRONG program participants share their stories:
Terri Byers
During one of Terri Byers’ routine, annual mammogram screening tests, she learned that she had a mass on her breast. A month after her diagnosis in February 2025, she had the mass removed and began radiation therapy.
“Thankfully this was discovered very early,” Terri said. A week later I had an appointment with a surgeon. This all moved very fast.”
As she underwent surgery and treatment, Terri, a longtime Y member, learned of the LiveSTRONG program from an acquaintance. She shares that joining the program has been a very positive part of her recovery.
Led by Y staff Paul Discipio and Lynne Khater, the LiveSTRONG program balances health, wellness, strength, nutrition and community. The multi-generational cohort that Terri joined in Winter/Spring 2026 featured adults of all ages and various stages of cancer treatment and recovery.
“We all have different abilities as far as the physical aspect of the class. What I appreciate about Paul and Lynne is that they are very in tune with who is capable of what,” Terri said. “I’m inspired by the community-building of this program. We all have gone through very different journeys and have different stories of how we got here. Just being able to open up and empathize with each other is great. It’s cathartic being a part of this. These people get it.”
The Byers family has had a Y family membership for approximately 20 years. Her husband Rick rarely misses a week at the Y and daughters Jenna (age 24) and Olivia (age 22) also work out at the Y.
Since graduating from the LiveSTRONG program, Terri focuses on weight-training, cardio exercises and strength. “Exercise is important to me to keep my balance and strong bone density, especially as I get older,” she said.
Bob Pereira
Cancer has impacted Bob Pereira in many ways, first his diagnosis with prostate cancer in 2010 as well as his daughter Cassie’s own battle with breast cancer.
Cassie particpted in the LiveSTRONG program at her local Y. When Bob’s prostate cancer returned in 2024 after 14-years, he knew the LiveSTRONG program his Y – the Andover/North Andover YMCA – would be the right kind of support he needed this time around.
“After I went through Mass General Brigham Hospital’s treatment program and completed radiation and hormone therapy, I connected with the Y,” Bob said. “I was wide open to support and wanted to focus on ways to improve my flexibility and conditioning and to readapt socializing with people. My wellbeing was what was important to me. This program gave me a chance to explore that. I wasn’t as concerned about my physical health, as my mental health.”
Bob enjoyed the support and individualize care from Paul, the program manager and Director of the Y’s Active Living Center.
“Paul helped with any feelings of anxiety about being in a group,” Bob said. “He took embarrassment off the table. You are able to put in what you wanted and what you could. You were encouraged to do whatever level you felt comfortable with. There is no feeling of ‘I shouldn’t be in this group.’ It’s comforting. It’s not a competition.”
That positive group dynamic helped Bob find physical and mental strength through his second cancer recovery.
Bob, 72, retired six years ago from ZOLL Medical Corporation, a career that took him all over the world. He is an active Boston University alum, serving on the School of Business Alumni Association’s Board of Directors and visiting local high schools to speak with Juniors and Seniors about the BU experience. And he enjoys attending BU sporting events, especially hockey games.
Another passion for Bob is staying active with his grandchildren’s lives and volunteering.
“I also volunteer for Special Olympics,” Bob said. “A friend of my daughter’s son has autism. He competes in the Special Olympics games at Harvard University in the summer. Supporting him is what got me engaged initially.”
On the weekends, you will find Bob (or ‘G’ as he is affectionately called by the kids) cheering on his grandchildren Thomas, Ellie and Alex in their activities. Bob loves road trips and summer rentals to connect with his family on the South Shore.
“The grandkids have all different characteristics and interests, and I try to keep up with it all!” he said.
