Wellspring is pleased to introduce a new evidence-based program designed specifically for individuals recovering from stage 2 or 3 colon cancer who received chemotherapy as part of their treatment plan: Cancer Exercise for Colon Cancer.
This specialized 12-week exercise program combines interval and circuit training in a safe, supportive environment led by highly trained cancer exercise professionals. Participants receive individualized assessments, personalized exercise plans, behaviour-change coaching, and the opportunity to connect with others navigating similar experiences.
The launch of this program follows groundbreaking findings from the international CO.21 “Challenge” trial, published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2025. The study demonstrated that structured exercise following chemotherapy reduced the risk of cancer recurrence or new cancers by 28% and reduced the risk of death by 37% for people with stage II and III colon cancer.
This pilot program is part of a quality improvement research initiative that Wellspring is partnering on with Dr. Michelle Nadler, Medical Oncologist at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Implementation Scientist. The research is focused on demonstrating the feasibility of implementing an adapted version of the CO.21 protocol in a community-based setting and strengthening referral pathways between the oncology community and Wellspring. We hope that through this initiative more patients can access evidence-based supportive care programs throughout their cancer journey.
“I am impressed by Wellspring’s focus and dedication to implementing programs that support both patient’s needs and follow evidence-base oncology, ” says Dr. Michelle Nadler. “They also routinely evaluate their programs to make sure they meet the objectives they set out.”
Adds Amanda Smart, Chief Mission Officer, “I am excited that we have this opportunity to translate research into practice by bringing cancer exercise for people with colon cancer to our Oakville and Toronto locations this fall.”
The Cancer Exercise for Colon Cancer program is open to adults with stage 2 or 3 colon cancer who are within one year of completing chemotherapy. Sessions are offered twice weekly over 12 weeks and include both supervised exercise and at-home support tools.