Cancer survivors unite at Connecticut center

SOUTHPORT, Conn. (WTNH) -- There is now a center specifically designed for hundreds of cancer survivors. It's the only one in the country, and it's not located in a hospital setting.

The minute you walk into the Connecticut Challenge Center for Survivorship , cancer survivor or not, the bright and airy feel draws you right in.

"We think it's hopeful and so it's very comfortable for people to come here and very welcoming," said Sharyn Taymor, CT Challenge Center for Survivorship. "The openness, the lights, the way everything else is designed, it just feeds into that."

Taymor, Director of Survivorship Outreach, also battled cancer.
 
"It's the first standalone facility of its kind in the country," said Taymor.

The building was completely redone, offering wellness programs for cancer survivors. 
  
From the fitness areas to nutrition and psychosocial support, it's about improving quality of life. 

"Some of the bikes are especially designed for breast cancer survivors," said Taymor. "Often times when people finish their treatment, they really don't want to go back to the hospital or the cancer center where they were treated."

"It's a place where you can feel comfortable and good about getting to the next step," Taymor said.

The next step for high school senior Aaron Gaberman is college.

"I wanted to get the right instructions on how to improve my body and how to improve my lifestyle," Gaberman said.

Gaberman was 10 years old when he was diagnosed with brain tumors.

"I'm able to work in a zone that is more comfortable to me," he said.

Personal trainer Dan Root only works with cancer patients.

"We have a better understanding of some of the side effects of their treatment," said Root. "Each person has individual needs, working one on one with them, we can help to make them feel a little bit better."

Donna Spano is a breast cancer survivor.

"When I walk in here, I just don't think about cancer," Spano said. "I feel spiritually moved when I come here. I want to work and I want to eat right."

Thriving in survivorship is not an option there.

The programs are for patients in treatment and post-treatment. Nineteen hospitals are affiliated with the center. It offers a free 30 day trial membership.