Mary Biddle-Newberry quietly calls out instructions and stretches at the Caldwell YMCA this week.

Lying on the floor are three cancer survivors, eyes closed and resting on mats. In a room normally used for sweating cyclists, Biddle-Newberry is helping women recover from breast cancer.

Biddle-Newberry teaches the Breast Cancer Rehab program twice a week at the Caldwell YMCA. It’s the second session of the class, which is open to survivors in all stages of recovery. “The aim of the class is to improve their quality of life,” said Biddle-Newberry. The program is funded through a grant by Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Grant partners also include Treasure Valley Family YMCA, Saint Alphonsus Cancer Care Center and the Terry Reilly Clinic.

Participants attending Monday’s class were Holley Gibson, Pam Doyle and Reida Bow. After a short warm-up on the indoor track, Biddle-Newberry puts the participants through a series of stretches designed to increase flexibility in the shoulders and improve posture. “Our goal is to serve over 70 women,” said Biddle-Newberry.

The classes will run through spring 2013. For more information, contact Biddle-Newberry at 695-1591 or mary.biddle@ymcatvidaho.org.