MOVVIDA: A Holistic Approach to Oncology in Puerto del Rosario
The municipality of Puerto del Rosario is proud to be part of a pioneering initiative known as MOVVIDA (Movement and Life in Oncology). This innovative program integrates adapted physical exercise and yoga/mindfulness into the oncology treatment process, specifically catering to patients during the active phase of their illness. Launched by the Oncology Service of the General Hospital of Fuerteventura in collaboration with FuerteYoga Association and the Metastatic Breast Cancer Association in Fuerteventura, MOVVIDA represents a vital response to a pressing healthcare need across the island.
Objectives of the MOVVIDA Program
MOVVIDA aims to enhance the functionality, quality of life, and holistic well-being of individuals battling cancer. The program addresses a critical gap within the local healthcare system—the necessity for structured exercise programs within oncological care. By promoting physical movement, the initiative aspires to create tangible improvements in patients’ daily lives during a challenging time.
A Patient-Centric Focus
David de Vera, the mayor of Puerto del Rosario, emphasized the human aspect of the program, stating, “This initiative focuses on individuals—how they feel and how they face such a complex process. Supporting programs like this aligns with our commitment to caring for our community from a more humane and empathetic perspective.” This human-centric focus is a cornerstone of MOVVIDA, ensuring that each participant’s experience is recognized and valued.
Comprehensive Health Support
Rosa Rodríguez, the Public Health Councillor, highlighted the significance of tailored emotional support and adapted physical activity as part of a complete healthcare approach. “This program allows us to provide personalized attention to each patient, taking into account both their clinical situation and emotional well-being,” she explained. The integration of mental health support with physical activity is a significant step towards fostering a more compassionate healthcare environment.
Tailored Programs for Individual Needs
MOVVIDA targets patients undergoing active treatment—such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies—who have been referred by oncology medical teams. After an initial assessment, the program designs individualized plans spanning three to six months. These plans feature functional training alongside sessions of yoga and mindfulness, ensuring a comprehensive approach to each patient’s unique situation.
Integrating Yoga and Mindfulness
Jesus Medina from FuerteYoga shared his excitement about this collaboration, noting that MOVVIDA signifies a crucial step towards integrating yoga and mindfulness into public healthcare. The therapeutic benefits of these practices are well-documented, providing a supportive framework for patients navigating the complexities of cancer treatment.
Medical Perspectives on MOVVIDA
Samuel Hernández, the head of the Oncology Service at the General Hospital of Fuerteventura, termed MOVVIDA an essential and inspiring project. He noted, “Movement and Life is a personalized exercise program that will help us work with oncology patients during active treatment to harness the benefits of physical activity in their treatment process.” The alignment of exercise with medical therapies illustrates a progressive understanding of cancer treatment’s multifaceted nature.
Importance of Institutional Coordination
Tomás Pérez González, the director of the Health Area of Fuerteventura, emphasized the critical role of institutional collaboration in this program. “With MOVVIDA, we focus extensively on humanization and comprehensive care for our oncology patients in Fuerteventura. This initiative allows us to support them not just in their medical treatments but also in their athletic pursuits to enhance their quality of life,” he remarked. This collaborative effort signifies a commitment to supporting patients holistically.
Continuous Support and Follow-Up
MOVVIDA operates continuously and flexibly, with regular monitoring by a multidisciplinary team. The program includes a concluding evaluation, supplying customized guidelines for patients to promote sustained physical activity as a long-term healthy habit. This ongoing support ensures that patients have the resources and encouragement necessary to make exercise a permanent part of their lives.
Engagement and Participation
For those interested in learning more about MOVVIDA or participating, further details are available on the program’s official website. This easily accessible resource invites community members to engage with a transformative program designed to nurture both physical and emotional health in the face of cancer.
With initiatives like MOVVIDA, Puerto del Rosario is contributing to an enriched understanding of health—where physical and emotional wellness intertwine, and where community support champions individuals at every stage of their journey.
