Help When You Need It Most
Cancer survivors thrive through Sylvester’s fitness program
By Anki Sinha
Photography by Victor Collado
From left, Dr. Tracy Crane, Dr. Paola Rossi and LaShae Rolle.
T
he Believe in You program at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is changing lives by empowering cancer survivors to reclaim their strength and well-being through fitness. Designed for people at any stage of their cancer journey, this innovative program helps participants train for the Dolphins Cancer Challenge (DCC), an event that raises crucial funds for cancer research at Sylvester.
Founded by Tracy Crane, Ph.D., RDN, Sylvester’s director of lifestyle medicine, prevention and digital health, Believe in You began three years ago with only a handful of participants. Today, the program has grown to 160 survivors who train for five months to complete a 5K or bike ride in the DCC. This initiative reflects a new understanding in cancer care — exercise is not only safe for survivors but can actively improve their outcomes.
“It started because so many Sylvester patients wanted to participate in the DCC but didn’t feel they could do it,” explained program director Paola Rossi, M.D. M.S.Ed., clinical program director of lifestyle medicine at Sylvester. “We’ve changed that. Everyone finds a community here and feels healthier and stronger.”
For LaShae Rolle, M.P.H., a doctoral student at the Miller School’s Department of Public Health Sciences and staff member supporting Dr. Crane’s research, the program is a powerful source of encouragement during her cancer journey. “The Believe in You program gave me a sense of purpose and community when I needed it most,” she said. “Being diagnosed with cancer suddenly and unexpectedly left me feeling very alone, but when I shared my diagnosis with some of the participants, they immediately supported and encouraged me.”
With training sites in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, the program offers a blend of in-person and virtual sessions, including strength training, cardio, nutrition and yoga. Participants receive workout equipment, a weekly newsletter and a supportive online group to stay connected.
By guiding survivors to cross the finish line, Believe in You empowers participants to reclaim control over their health and find hope in their future. “In the end, we get to move our bodies at the DCC, ring the bell, and celebrate being living proof,” Rolle said. “It’s truly a worthwhile and one-of-a-kind experience for survivors and their loved ones.” 
