BEACHWOOD, Ohio — For more than 25 years, The Gathering Place has supported, educated and empowered those fighting cancer.
The Beachwood facility has announced that it is now bolstering those efforts through its newly expanded Fitness Studio.
A ribbon cutting for the studio was recently held at the organization’s East location headquarters, 23300 Commerce Park Road in Beachwood.
The ribbon cutting represents more than new space or equipment, as it also reflects the organization’s continued evolution — that of remaining rooted in its founding vision while adapting to meet the changing needs of those it serves.
The expansion represents a commitment to movement and access as a means to help those The Gathering Place serves.
Nineteen fitness programs are now offered each week to provide consistent opportunities for safe, supportive movement tailored to each participant’s cancer experience.
“Movement is a critical part of the cancer journey,” The Gathering Place CEO Michele Seyranian said in a news release.
“Bringing our Fitness Studio to our East location allows us to support people together — through movement, nutrition, healing arts and support groups — all under one roof, strengthening connection and community at every step.”
Seyranian said the new Fitness Studio would not have been possible without the generosity of Karen Lipman Steiger, whose support helped bring the vision to life.
“Karen’s commitment to whole-person cancer care has created a space where people feel safe, supported and empowered to rebuild strength and confidence,” Seyranian said.
“We are deeply grateful for her belief in this mission and in the people we serve.”
For many participants, the Fitness Studio has come to represent more than a workout space. They see it as a gateway to connection, confidence and belonging.
Jane Case, a longtime participant, shared that after discovering The Gathering Place early in her cancer treatment, the community she found became a constant in her life.
“I walked in here terrified during treatment, and I never really left,” Case said.
“Over the years, I’ve found friendships, strength and a community that feels like home. This is my place.”
Most activity in the Fitness Studio takes place through a guided open-gym format — a supported, independent workout environment overseen by movement specialists certified in cancer exercise.
Staff members are always present to ensure that equipment is used safely, answer questions and help participants identify exercises appropriate for their needs and abilities.
To learn more about the Fitness Studio, movement programs and the wide range of free support services offered at The Gathering Place, visit touchedbycancer.org or stop by the Beachwood location to see the space.
Individuals impacted by cancer, as well as caregivers and loved ones, are welcome to explore the full range of offered programs.
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