Team Survivors: Movement Matters Supports Return To Active, Healthy Lifestyle

Promoting safe return to physical activity and nutrition in pediatric cancer survivorship

For pediatric cancer survivors, one of the biggest challenges is returning to physical activity after treatment. Movement Matters is a free, 12-week physical activity and nutrition program for patients ages 9-17 with a cancer or bone marrow transplant diagnosis. The program serves as a bridge between formal therapy models and independent physical activity.

“Many of these kids experience significant deconditioning during treatment and miss key developmental opportunities related to movement,” said Trina O’Malley, MEd, LAT, Athletic Trainer, Sports Medicine at Children’s Wisconsin. “Movement Matters helps reintroduce physical activity in a way that is safe, supportive and less intimidating.”

Program Structure and Activities

The program meets weekly and participants engage in a variety of activities that incorporate movement and nutrition education like yoga, pickleball, disc golf, snowshoeing, visiting a local farmers market and making trail mix and overnight oats. Participants receive age-appropriate education from a sports medicine registered dietitian, learning how to properly nourish and fuel their body.

Clinical Integration and Outcomes

Movement Matters is intended for patients who are off treatment or in maintenance therapy. Participants must receive clearance from their primary oncologist or bone marrow transplant specialist. While the program does not replace physical or occupational therapy, it supports patients who may not qualify for services but still benefit from consistent physical movement.

The program complements survivorship care by addressing long-term risks common in pediatric oncology populations, including cardiovascular disease and endocrine disorders. Movement Matters helps make sure participants get physical activity and recognize how their bodies work in a safe way. Although Movement Matters has completed only its inaugural season, early results are encouraging. The program demonstrated high levels of participant engagement and enjoyment, with positive feedback highlighting a supportive, non-competitive environment that fosters confidence, curiosity and enjoyment of physical activity.

“One of the biggest things I’ve seen out of this program is the confidence that these kids get,” said O’Malley. “It’s incredible to see how they come in, so shy and not wanting to talk, but then their confidence exponentially evolves within this program.”

How To Refer

Movement Matters is available to patients in the MACC Fund Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. Referrals are coordinated through the Children’s Wisconsin Survivorship Team. Providers and families may also contact teamsurvivors@childrenswi.org for more information.

By combining physical activity, nutrition education and peer support, the program helps pediatric survivors build strength, confidence
and habits that support lifelong health.