Beginning this semester, Mary Baldwin University will host the Kellman Beat Cancer Boot Camp program, designed to help local cancer patients, cancer survivors, and those who love them stay active during cancer treatment and beyond. 
The effort is due, in part, to a $5,000, one-year grant from Augusta Health, which recognizes Mary Baldwin as a partner in the continuum of services provided at the hospital.
“While we treat the critical stages of the illness, and provide a cancer exercise program, having a support group will help cancer survivors on their journey to health,” said Arona Richard, chair of Augusta Health’s community benefit committee.
Kellman Beat Cancer Boot Camp is nationally recognized as the first physical fitness support group for cancer survivors. This licensed program has been highlighted on the NBC hit show The Biggest Loser as well as on PBS and AARP.
Spearheading the effort at Mary Baldwin is Director of Athletics and Wellness Sharon Spalding, herself a cancer survivor.
“You may have just had chemo and all you can do is count,” she said of the group sessions, “and that is OK.”
Spalding said the program will begin in March and will expand this spring to include sessions at the Murphy Deming College of Health Sciences and classes with the city of Waynesboro’s Parks and Recreation Department.
For more information, visit https://www.beatcancerbootcamp.com/home.html.