The Gathering Place, which provides support, education, and empowerment to individuals and families coping with cancer, on Wednesday, Jan. 6, celebrated the opening of its newly expanded fitness studio with a ribbon cutting at the organization’s east location and headquarters on the Arnold & Sydell Miller Family Campus in Beachwood.

The updated and expanded studio allows The Gathering Place to offer 19 fitness programs each week, providing consistent opportunities for safe, supportive movement tailored to each participant’s cancer experience.

L-R: Karen Lipman Steiger, Daniel Steiger, Gathering Place CEO Michele Seyranian, Suzette Young, Stephen Cerne, and Sandy Conochan.“Movement is a critical part of the cancer journey,” says Gathering Place CEO Michele Seyranian. “Bringing our Fitness Studio to our east location allows us to support people together - through movement, nutrition, healing arts, and support groups—all under one roof, strengthening connection and community at every step.”

Seyranian says she credits the generosity of Karen Lipman Steiger, who helped bring into reality a commitment to movement and a vision for an accessible fitness center.

“Karen’s commitment to whole-person cancer care has created a space where people feel safe, supported, and empowered to rebuild strength and confidence,” she says. “We are deeply grateful for her belief in this mission and in the people we serve.”

A place that changes lives
For many Gathering Place participants, the fitness studio represents more than a workout space. In fact, it is a gateway to connection, confidence, and belonging.

Jane Case, a longtime participant, shared that the community she found in The Gathering Place early in her cancer treatment became a constant in her life.

“I walked in here terrified during treatment, and I never really left,” recalled Case at the ribbon cutting. “Over the years, I’ve found friendships, strength, and a community that feels like home. This is my place.”

Most activity in the studio takes place through a guided open gym format—a supported, independent workout environment that is overseen by movement specialists certified in cancer exercise.

Staff are always present to ensure equipment is used safely, answer questions, and help participants identify exercises appropriate for their needs and abilities.

To learn more about the fitness studio, movement programs, and the wide range of free support services offered at The Gathering Place, visit the website or stop by the Beachwood location, 23300 Commerce Park Road in Beachwood to see the space in action.

Individuals affected by cancer, as well as caregivers and loved ones, are welcome to explore everything The Gathering Place has to offer.

This year, The Gathering Place marks more than 25 years of service. The ribbon cutting represents more than new space or equipment. It reflects the organization’s continued evolution and a commitment to remain rooted in its founding vision while adapting to meet the changing needs of those it serves.