Boot camp ... again?

  • Published
  • By Maj. Rudy W. Cardona
  • 355th Maintenance Operations Squadron
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  There I was, face-down in the dirt, racking out push-ups in the early morning. No, this wasn't boot camp ... at least not Air Force boot camp. I was honored to be exercising with the most courageous and enthusiastic ladies in Tucson. This was Breast Cancer Boot Camp, an organization who's popularity grows each day. The leader of the group, admirably called "Sarge," is Anita Kellman. She's a true motivator, fitness expert, and caring leader, who would give any MTI a run for their money. Ms. Kellman has worked in the breast imaging field for 25 years and is a co-founder of the boot camp through which she shares her knowledge, experience, and infectious enthusiasm.

Breast Cancer Boot Camp is a physical fitness support group for women with breast cancer, survivors, and the people who care about them. The program is designed to condition the body and mind for healing, building strength and stamina to overcome the obstacles associated with the disease. Group sessions include a variety of exercises designed to be effective and challenging. Workouts are geared toward all fitness levels as a person moves through various stages of cancer treatment and recovery.

A large part of the group's structure is to also have fun. The group provides an opportunity to meet new people, share stories, and set goals. In addition, the group travels to local organizations who share in their goal of getting fit and staying strong. The Breast Cancer Boot Camp has participated in the Race for the Cure, an annual retreat at Rio Rico, and the Tucson Police Memorial Challenge 5K Run. The group also attends field trips to such places as the Tucson Police Academy, the South East Regional Shooting Range, and now our very own Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. The tour coordinator and a 355 Maintenance Operations Squadron Flight Commander, 1st Lt. Eileen Wanless sprang into action when the tour request came in from Ray Carroll, District 4 Pima County Supervisor and the MOS's Honorary Commander.

"As soon as the squadron heard this group would be visiting, volunteers poured into support: we are honored to have them here," Lieutenant Wanless said.

During the base tour, the ladies were able to get an up-close and personal overview of the A-10C and related training munitions by the Weapons Standardization Section experts led by Chief Master Sgt. Douglas Mahoney. Mr. Carroll, who was also part of the tour, thanked Davis-Monthan AFB for hosting this group.

"We are proud of what our service members do each day," he said. "This opportunity gives both organizations a chance to see the courage within each."

While visiting the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group, one of the boot campers said, "I have lived in Tucson all my life and didn't know any of this was here ... thank you for all you do for our country."

Anyone is invited to join or visit Breast Cancer Boot Camp Headquarters at Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, 3482 E. River Road, Tucson, where classes are held twice a week (Saturdays and Tuesdays). It also holds a monthly lunch and dinner group meetings. For questions call (520) 546-1601 or visit online at http:www.bcbootcamp.org. Many of us in our daily lives can benefit from this group's motto: Take Charge!