BREAST CANCER RECOVERY IN ACTION

BRA Brings Emotional and Physical Benefits

PHOTOS COURTESY BRA

In a unique partnership, Breast cancer Recovery in Action (BRA) and Columbia-based Climb Performance Therapies are joining forces to bring a new breast cancer support program to Maury and Williamson County residents and beyond. The acronym BRA intentionally took out the “c” because cancer does not define them, even though it has shaped them.

Anyone who has been touched by breast cancer understands the emotional and physical toll that diagnosis and treatment can have. BRA is a research-based program that provides structured exercise, breast cancer-specific nutrition classes, a curriculum-based emotional processing component, and mentoring from longer-term survivors. This results in the creation of a healing community that transcends family and friends. They understand all too well that breast cancer is serious, but it is still important to laugh and have some fun and the group has a language all their own that helps to establish the bonds of relationships.

Lydia Fowler, co-founder of Climb Performance Therapies, is both a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Personal Trainer and brings in-depth knowledge across the spectrum of healthy lifestyles. BRA embraces that concept and adds the emotional wellness component. Together, the partnership truly offers a wholistic program of healing and wellness to breast cancer survivors. “There is a special comfort in knowing you are among a group that doesn’t judge, doesn’t intimidate… only accepts, encourages and supports you,” says survivor Sharon Ridings. “BRA provides an environment that truly fosters a spirit of healing and moving forward. And they make it fun!”

The BRA logo contains the pink ribbon to be recognized as a breast cancer organization, however, the pink ribbon is upside down because BRA turns cancer upside down. The logo was designed by survivor, Leslie Haines and some may see a flower, which represents an opening up and blossoming. Others may see a phoenix in the logo signifying rising from the ashes. The extra “arms” mean they reach out to everyone and the dots between the arms represent the different skin tones as breast cancer does not discriminate.

PHOTOS COURTESY BRA

PHOTOS COURTESY BRA

The program is open to anyone who has ever had a diagnosis of breast cancer, whether they are still in treatment, recently finished, or years out, as well as those who have prophylactic surgery due to a gene mutation. Currently, there are 10 active BRA groups in Middle Tennessee. To connect with others locally in Columbia, Franklin, Brentwood, or Nolensville, who understand what you are going through, visit bragroups.org and climbptnutrition.com for additional information and upcoming events. Follow them on social media at @bragroups.

Breast cancer may bring you down, but BRA will lift you up!