Exercise & Nutrition

Being active and eating healthy can have a positive effect during and after treatment. Our nutrition and exercise programs are designed to educate and empower individuals as they embrace new habits for their well-being.

Food can be used as a tool to nourish your body during and after cancer treatment. Whether you meet one-on-one with a registered dietitian or join a cooking class, we’ll help you improve and maintain healthier eating habits with balanced and nutritious meals you’ll love!

Staying physically active before, during and after treatment can greatly improve physical and mental health. Those who were not active before their cancer diagnosis can safely and successfully participate in our exercise programs. Join an exercise class to maintain and build your strength, balance, endurance and flexibility. Find a class that’s right for you after completing a Health & Fitness screening with our trainer.

Please refrain from wearing perfumes and scented lotions while a The Gathering Place. Many people undergoing treatment are sensitive to smells and find it makes them feel ill. Thank you.

Register for a Nutrition Program
Register for an Exercise Program

Meet Stephanie Hopkins

Stephanie earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree at Case Western Reserve University in nutrition while finishing the coordinated University Hospitals dietetic internship program. Her career started as a clinical inpatient dietitian at Seidman Cancer Center. She became involved with The Gathering Place in 2018 as program staff and has since transitioned to the full-time dietitian. Recently named Ohio's 2021 Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year, Stephanie helps people impacted by cancer to better understand and utilize nutrition as a tool for health.

Meet Stephen Cerne

Stephen Cerne, BS, NSCA-CPT, ACSM/ACS-CET, brings his expertise as a certified cancer exercise trainer (ACSM/ACS-CET), personal trainer and strength and conditioning coach, as well as his own personal family experience with cancer to his role at The Gathering Place. He looks forward to using his knowledge to educate, empower, and enrich the lives of others who may be mentally and physically fragile, providing encouragement, hope and imparting upon them a "some is better than none" attitude.

Meet Sandy Conochan

Sandy Conochan, ATC, PTA received her Bachelor of Science degrees in Athletic Training and Exercise Science from the University of Mount Union (2006), and Associates of Applied Science as a Physical Therapist Assistant from Kent State University (2010). She is also a personal trainer and has worked with people one-on-one and in a group setting. She has experience working with people of all ages and abilities, with varying goals and aspirations. She plans on using her exercise related degrees, as well as her personal experience with cancer to help participants gain strength and mobility as well as self-confidence and inner peace.