Swimming Helps Miami Breast Cancer Survivor Manage Pain
For survivors like Vianney De Los Angeles, regular swimming helps mitigate joint pain from hormone-blocking treatment.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Cancer
In July 2025, Miami resident Vianney De Los Angeles completed a 5-mile swim fundraiser that raised over $2,000 for the American Cancer Society. The effort highlighted the role of physical activity in managing side effects following her February 2024 diagnosis of stage 2 invasive ductal carcinoma.
Why it matters
Regular exercise is increasingly recognized as a key strategy for managing joint pain associated with hormone-blocking therapies in cancer care. By sharing her journey, survivors aim to encourage community members to prioritize consistent medical screenings and wellness habits.
Clinical observations indicate that 3 to 6 hours of weekly exercise improves treatment outcomes for cancer patients. While current data confirms these benefits, the specific long-term impact of varying swim intensities on joint pain reduction remains under investigation.
The players
Vianney De Los Angeles
A 49-year-old breast cancer survivor and athlete who uses swimming to manage treatment-related joint pain.
American Cancer Society
A national voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer through research, education, and patient support.
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
A Florida-based cancer research and treatment facility where De Los Angeles received her care.
The details
After receiving a diagnosis in early 2024 and undergoing a lumpectomy at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, De Los Angeles completed 20 rounds of radiation therapy. She currently manages side effects from her five-year hormone therapy plan through consistent exercise. Swimming helps mitigate joint pain, a common side effect of hormone-blocking medications, and aligns with broader findings that regular movement can aid recovery and physical function.
Timeline
February 2024: Vianney De Los Angeles received a cancer diagnosis.
July 2025: A team of 30 swimmers completed a 5-mile fundraising event.
October 24, 2026: The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Miami walk takes place.
Health Landscape
The American Cancer Society's physical activity guidelines for cancer survivors emphasize the role of movement in long-term recovery and symptom management. This local initiative mirrors broader trends that promote sustained exercise as an essential component of cancer survivorship.
If you are currently undergoing treatment, it is worth discussing with your doctor how specific exercise routines might help mitigate medication-related joint pain. Regular movement is linked to better treatment outcomes, but always clear new activity levels with your oncology team first.
The takeaway
Exercise is a valuable tool for supporting quality of life during breast cancer treatment. If you are experiencing treatment-related side effects, talk to your physician about incorporating gentle, regular physical activity into your routine to help manage symptoms.
Further reading
Learn more about local support and resources at Cancer.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Miami Herald.
