BEACHWOOD, Ohio — For more than 25 years, The Gathering Place has supported, educated and empowered those fighting cancer.<\/p>\n
The Beachwood facility has announced that it is now bolstering those efforts through its newly expanded Fitness Studio. <\/p>\n
A ribbon cutting for the studio was recently held at the organization\u2019s East location headquarters, 23300 Commerce Park Road in Beachwood.<\/p>\n
The ribbon cutting represents more than new space or equipment, as it also reflects the organization\u2019s continued evolution — that of remaining rooted in its founding vision while adapting to meet the changing needs of those it serves.<\/p>\n
The expansion represents a commitment to movement and access as a means to help those The Gathering Place serves. <\/p>\n
Nineteen fitness programs are now offered each week to provide consistent opportunities for safe, supportive movement tailored to each participant\u2019s cancer experience.<\/p>\n
\u201cMovement is a critical part of the cancer journey,\u201d The Gathering Place CEO Michele Seyranian said in a news release. <\/p>\n
\u201cBringing 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cKaren\u2019s commitment to whole-person cancer care has created a space where people feel safe, supported and empowered to rebuild strength and confidence,\u201d Seyranian said. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe are deeply grateful for her belief in this mission and in the people we serve.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cI walked in here terrified during treatment, and I never really left,\u201d Case said. <\/p>\n
\u201cOver the years, I\u2019ve found friendships, strength and a community that feels like home. This is my place.\u201d<\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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<\/a> or stop by the Beachwood location to see the space.<\/p>\n Individuals impacted by cancer, as well as caregivers and loved ones, are welcome to explore the full range of offered programs.<\/p>\n