The Gathering Place’s Richman Family Wellness Center Empowers Those Touched by Cancer Erin Malloy was diagnosed with cancer on Christmas eve, 2014 and started chemo in early January. Because of the type of cancer, the chemo treatment was rigorous where her routine was one week in bed, one week with limited movement around the house and the third week feeling good; then it all started over again. Having been active before her diagnosis, both in the gym and as a high-school teacher, Erin wanted to get up and move when she felt well. Prior to her diagnosis, Erin was not familiar with the programs and services offered by The Gathering Place, and family and friends were telling her, “you’ve got to go there”. “I thought people who went to The Gathering Place were devastated or horribly sick,” Erin told us. “I had a vision of old, sick people.” Then someone her age, in remission for about five years, said, “It’s not like that. Just go. I’ll go with you if you want.” So Erin took the first step and walked through the doors, where she learned about The Gathering Place’s Richman Family Wellness Center, located just across the street from The Gathering Place, on Commerce Park Drive. While they offer yoga and tai chi at The Gathering Place, the Richman Family Wellness Center, in a gym setting, offers classes and weight-strengthening programs that utilize free weights, bands, cardio equipment, weight machines and more to help individuals address the physical impact and side effects of a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Under the direction of certified personal trainer Stephen Cerne, classes are sculpted for people of all ages and abilities in a non-threatening, inviting atmosphere, as witnessed when observing Erin’s class. Following chemo, Erin’s muscles were atrophied. She couldn’t climb stairs – or do much of anything – and wanted to rebuild her strength. Stephen coached her to do what she could – at her own pace – and she slowly began rebuilding her confidence, strength and balance. “All abilities are welcome and made to feel comfortable,” Erin told us. “Your head messes with you when your body gives up, and I’ve always found that coming here provides a great bonding experience with others who attend.” Everyone at the Richman Family Wellness Center has his or her diagnosis in common, and all support each other. Some are just starting their journey, and others are ready to move on. Some prefer tai chi or yoga, which focuses more on stretching, relaxation Whatever the Reason, Whatever the Season... Call Smylie One! The Smylie One Comfort Team Gary Rosen • Steven Smylie • Rick Coates Tune-Up & Safety Check Pro-Max Heating Pro-Max Plumbing $20 OFF Now Only $79.95 Over 30 Points of Inspection On Your Next Service Call “Don’t Delay... Call Today” $25 OFF Professional Service MEDAL OF EXCELLENCE Saving Your Wallet from unexpected repair bills *financing available 440-449-HEAT(4328) www.smylieone.com 8323 Mayfield Rd. Chesterland, OH 44026 26201 Richmond Rd. Bedford Heights, OH 44146 Valid thru 12/31/15. Limit one per household. During business hours. Not valid on prior sales. Can not be used in conjunction with any other discounts. Gas Forced Air Systems only. 14 Beachwood Buzz n September 2015