Retired NFL Linebacker Chris Draft will be coming to Cherokee on January 29th to host a free Fitness Blitz exercise program designed for cancer patients. Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority is partnering with UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center to host the event to celebrate the Get Real & Heel exercise oncology program, which offers cancer survivors access to safe, evidence-based exercise and peer support.
First launched at CIHA in April 2025, the Get Real & Heel Program is designed to support individuals during and after cancer treatment by helping participants rebuild strength, reduce fatigue, and improve quality of life. Classes are offered three times per week for 12 weeks and are held at the Cherokee Fitness Center Complex with CIHA staff members, Brett Parmenter, PT, DPT, Sherri Watterson, PTA, CLWT and Erin Hyde, COTA/L leading the classes.
“We are currently in our third round of this 12 week program are excited to celebrate the impact it has had for our community, said Sherri Watterson, PTA, CLWT. “This program is community-focused and incorporates practicable movement and wellness techniques into the daily lives of those impacted by cancer to promote healing.”
Chris Draft is the Founder of the Chris Draft Family Foundation and a former NFL linebacker for teams including the Carolina Panthers and the Atlanta Falcons. Draft began his advocacy work in memory of his late wife, Keasha, who bravely battled lung cancer despite never having smoked. Her strength and determination inspired him to change the face of lung cancer awareness and advocate for earlier detection, research, and support for families facing the disease.
The Fitness Blitz event will be held on January 29th in the Community Room at Tsali Care Center from 3:00 to 4:30pm. Anyone affected by cancer is invited to attend the event, which will provide an opportunity for a light workout and information about the Get Real and Heel program.
Learn more about the Get Real and Heel Program at www.activeaftercancer.org or by emailing Sherri Watterson at Sherri.Watterson@cherokeehospital.org.