Local Westport businesses came together to honor and pamper women survivors of cancer this past Saturday, Oct.20. Sponsored by Upper Deck Fitness and National Hall, the event drew in dozens of women to celebrate their resilience in battling cancer. There was strong support from the community, with companies such as Lululemon, Athleta and The Cutting Garden providing raffle prizes and gift bags.
The event was held at National Hall in downtown Westport, overlooking the Saugatuck River. The women were greeted by a breakfast buffet and were treated to a gentle outdoor workout, led by Suzanne Palazzo of Upper Deck Fitness. Palazzo feels health and fitness are an important part of treatment for cancer patients.
“It’s critical because both the recovery aspect as well as the prevention aspect revolve around the concept of self care,” Palazzo said. “Diet and exercise are certainly a major part of that, but it’s also teaching women how to listen to their bodies and sometimes rest and relax.”
Different local businesses, such as Southport Chiropractic and the massage therapists of Upper Deck Fitness, were on hand to treat tired bodies and sore muscles. Beautycounter and Whip Salon provided tips to beautify and revive, giving women an opportunity to feel happy with themselves inside and out. The ladies also had an opportunity to socialize over a communal lunch provided by fantastic local eateries such as Bartaco, OKO, Winfield Deli, Amis Trattoria, New Wave Seafood and Rye Ridge Deli.
Michelle Palazzo, who helped plan the event with her daughter, said that the community support was excellent. Michelle, who worked for 15 years at a nearby cancer center, jumped at the chance to get involved. “Since I’m no longer working in that field, I still want to keep in touch with cancer patients,” Palazzo said.
The event was well attended and there was a positive buzz throughout the morning. It remains to be seen whether this will be an annual event, but with such a large turnout and such support from the community, it certainly seems like a great start.