The CP Research Network Wellbeing Programs
The CP Research Network was founded with a commitment to the health and wellbeing of people with cerebral palsy and their caregivers. From the Wellbeing Guide to our focus on improving health outcomes, health and wellbeing has played a central role in our programming. With the evidence that has been generated about the importance of physical activity for our community, finding ways to support that activity has been an increasing focus for the network. In an ideal world, we would have a combination of adaptive fitness programs across the country that people can access in their locale to virtual programs that can be enjoyed by anyone with an internet connection.
MENTOR: Mindfulness, Exercise, Nutrition To Optimize Resilience for Adults
Click here to listen to Dr. Rimmer’s 10 minute overview of the MENTOR program.
Program Overview: The CP Research Network partnered with the National Center for Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD) to offer a free mindfulness, exercise and nutrition program called MENTOR. The program is an 8 week, 40 hour program to develop knowledge, improved health and sustainable skills. It is a new program and was originally designed as an in person, on site program at one of several rehabilitation centers (Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, Shephard, Spaulding, etc.) NCHPAD is just graduating its first class of students.The network worked with NCHPAD to tailor the fit for this program to the unique aspects of the CP community.
I wanted to say thank you for facilitating the opportunity to join the MENTOR program. It’s been a fantastic 8 weeks and I have gained so much valuable information that I otherwise would have had a difficult time accessing (or even knowing where to start looking for help). I’m much better equipped to maintain my health now, and push through what life throws my way with the newly acquired experience and knowledge…”
It has been designed for people with disabilities but not specifically for people with CP. We expect to make adaptions to the program. It is intended to be interactive and dynamically adapted for the participants.
Program Start: April 2022.
Sign Up: Join MyCP and check the box for interest in MENTOR or send questions to mentor@cprn.org. Existing MyCP members can go to their profile to indicate interest in participating.
Timeframe: Eight (8) weeks
Weekly time commitment: Five (5) hours, one hour per day
Breakdown: Two (2) hours exercise, one (1) hour nutrition, one (1) mindfulness, one (1) health coaching (usually Fridays).
Format: Group classes – Five (5) to six (6) people, fixed weekly schedule to be planned between 9 am – 5 pm CT, some one-on-one coaching as needed.
First week is an introduction to program and each hour session that week sets the context for the eight (8) week training.
More questions? Go to our MENTOR Frequently Asked Questions.
