Capital of Texas Team Survivor

Mamma Jamma Beneficiary #2

I have read articles the past 2 years that promoted the benefits of activity for the cancer patient. When I googled 'exercise and cancer' today I was happy to find several news stories, written just this week, about a report from Britain called Move More. Here's a few samples:

• Exercise a 'Super Drug' for Cancer Survivors from the Daily Mail in London
• The Benefits of Exercise After Cancer from the NY Times
• Exercise Called "Wonder Drug" for Cancer Patients: What Can it Do? from CBS News

Move More looked at 60 studies and as you might have guessed from the headlines, concluded that exercise is important both during cancer treatment and afterwards. What a PERFECT lead in for Capital of Texas Team Survivor.

CTTS Team Members and Triathlon Finishers!

When you hear those words, "You have cancer", you start down a path of experiences that no one wants to travel. An unspoken side effect is the loss of control over your body and exercise is the perfect way to combat that. Exercising with women on the same journey is empowering. The Austin affiliate of Team Survivor offers free exercise programs for women of all fitness levels in every stage of cancer treatment and recovery. This is HUGE because a typical running, or triathlon training program might cost as much as $200 for just a 6-week program. After enduring the cost of cancer treatment, even that amount can be an obstacle.

Diane Hale, breast cancer survivor
and CTTS member since 2010

According to Diane Hale, "Team Survivor is not 'just another support group' or a training group or an exercise group.  We are a TEAM.  A team of women in all stages of our cancer.  I was out of shape, out of breath and out of chemo.  We are fat and thin, athletes and beginners, just out of treatment and long-term survivors.  We run, walk, swim and backstroke.  And yes, some of our team are even bald  :) 
All Team Survivor asks is that you start moving.  At your level.  That's all.  Just move.  Just begin.  Just start.  Those that know my story know how dear Team Survivor is to me.  In spite of myself and my body I managed to cross that Danskin finish line last year.  Team Survivor has given me my life back.  No matter what level, you are on the Team and this Team supports and nourishes and survives."  

Yes, it's a wig, and that's my
Grand Nephew, Waylon!

A good friend told me about Team Survivor just after I had my surgeries. I joined them midway through my chemotherapy treatments in March 2009 as they began their Spring Triathlon Training Program. The first workout I went to was a swim class. Now, I didn't think I was bothered by my hair loss because I loved my wig. BUT, what point was there in putting a swim cap on over a wig? I left the house wearing a scarf-like hat I wore only at home when my head was cold. As I sat by the pool waiting for practice to start, everyone else started putting their caps & goggles on and I just froze. No one but Mark and the girls had seen my bald head!! I reached up and what felt like slow motion, took my hat off. Just then, a woman came over to me and said "Welcome to Team Survivor, glad you're here!" Then looking at my bald head she gently said, "You're not alone. We all understand, and you look beautiful!" I realized no one was staring, no one was gawking. Looking back, it was a small act of kindness, but it had a long term effect. I still remember the feeling of acceptance and freedom that came over me ... and stayed with me for the remainder of my treatment. I wish every Breast Cancer patient could feel the warmth of her words. That moment is a memory that will always be close to my heart.

Capital of Texas Team Survivor began in 1995 when four friends decided to compete in a triathlon. In 2001 it officially became a non-profit organization and is one of the Affiliates of The National Association of Team Survivor. Currently there are team Affiliates in only 21 cities in 14 states. CTTS is the only Affiliate in Texas. How fortunate for me that it was in my hometown. You can see if there is a team in your area here and you can find information about starting a team here. According to the National website, " Some groups simply offer 'walk and talks' on a regular basis, while other Affiliates have staff and dozens of programs. Our goal is to provide enjoyable and supportive exercise opportunities for women affected by cancer. If you live in an area that does not have an Affiliate, we are here to walk you through the process."

<---- Westlake Picayune Article from 2008

This Video shows highlights of the 2009 triathlon training season for CTTS.

Kristin Harrison's story in the June 2010 Statesman.
This Video aired October 2010 on a local channel for Breast Cancer Awareness.

Regaining your life, 

improving your health,

finding new strength,

meeting fellow survivors -- all at no cost.

CAPITAL OF TEXAS TEAM SURVIVOR -- PRICELESS!!

Capital of Texas Team Survivor is just one of the

10 Beneficiaries of the Texas Mamma Jamma Ride.

THIS is why I ride.