Get Real & Heel
Expanding an exercise program for cancer survivors
Expanding an exercise program for cancer survivors
Pursuing a life dedicated to helping others.: That’s the type of fulfilling lifestyle that Christina Story sought and eventually reached while studying at Carolina. Story’s aunt and family members had undergone cancer treatment, and she wanted to help others who had gone through a similar process in whatever way she could.
In 2008, as an undergraduate, Story was introduced to the Get Real & Heel program, which offered free exercise classes for cancer survivors. She was so compelled by the program that she discussed it with her grandfather, Petro Kulynych — the program’s first donor.
Years later, after getting her Ph.D. and continuing to help with the program, Story is working as an exercise specialist for the Wellness and Integrative Health Center at Huntsman Cancer Institute in Utah.
“I’m investing in people who are trying to get healthy after a really challenging time in their lives,” Story said. “If you talk to someone who’s been through [this kind of] program, the benefits it provides is beyond exercise. It makes a difference in people’s lives for a very small cost.”
