Research has shown that cancer patients benefit from exercise during treatment because it improves immune system function and helps decrease feelings such as fatigue and nausea.

Many hospital-based fitness programs are just supervised group exercise, with oncology, cardiac, diabetes and other patients combined into joint sessions. Good Shepherd Hospital is a leader in recognizing that cancer patients' needs and concerns are different and merit individual attention.

The Fitness Center at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital has three certified cancer exercise specialists who work one-on-one with cancer patients in fitness programs tailored to their needs and abilities and at hours that suit their schedules.

The instructors work closely with physicians to develop and monitor exercise plans that are beneficial before, during and after treatment. A family member or friend can accompany each patient at no charge, performing the same exercises and offering additional support in both coached and independent workouts.

Contact

For more information or to enroll in the Good Shepherd Hospital oncology fitness program, call Danielle Devine at 847.620.4554.