TAMPA, Fla. — A new physical fitness program offered by the Tampa YMCA is helping young cancer survivors gain their strength after treatment.

Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA recently launched the Thriver’s Club.

The 12-week program focuses on improving: strength, mobility, coordination and balance. It’s available to kids ages: 6-12 and 13-17.

“Unfortunately, the reality is kids get cancer and it really takes a toll on them and the families and we want to be able to support this population that we feel is underserved,” said Nicole Kettermann, Director of Youth Health and Wellness Services at the Tampa YMCA.

Eight-year-old Alex Dalton was diagnosed with leukemia at just one-year-old.

Now in remission, he will be one of the first to graduate from the program.

“He counts down the days until he comes to the Thriver’s Club,” said Alex’s mother, Larissa Dalton.

Alex’s parents say they’ve seen progress in their son.

“Knowing that he can do what he wants to now, that we don’t have to say no to him and that he loves to do it, it’s amazing,” said Alex’s father, Adam Dalton. “It’s what you hope for when you go in for treatment and then we get to realize it.”

“We want them to just feel that they can thrive not just survive, that they can come out of this feeling more confident in themselves and stronger,” said Kettermann.

The YMCA hopes to expand the Thriver’s Club in 2025.