Heroes in motion – a six-year quality report and patient evaluation of a real-world exercise therapy program in pediatric oncology - Report - MDSpire

Heroes in motion – a six-year quality report and patient evaluation of a real-world exercise therapy program in pediatric oncology

  • By

  • Carolin Ohnmacht

  • Alina Kunder

  • Sina Benz

  • Tobias Feuchtinger

  • Alexander Puzik

  • June 9, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Evaluating a Six-Year Quality Report on a Real-World Exercise Therapy Initiative for Pediatric Oncology Patients

Overview

The 'Heroes in Motion' program has successfully implemented exercise therapy for pediatric oncology patients over six years, demonstrating high patient and parent satisfaction. The initiative highlights the importance of individualized care and family involvement in promoting bio-psycho-social health.

Background

With pediatric cancer survival rates exceeding 80%, there is a growing need for supportive interventions that enhance the quality of life for survivors. Exercise therapy is recognized as a vital component of tertiary prevention, addressing both physical and mental health challenges faced by patients and their families. The HIM program aims to integrate structured exercise into routine care, fostering an active lifestyle among pediatric oncology patients.

Data Highlights

YearInpatient SessionsOutpatient SessionsPatient Satisfaction
20203,86081374%
2025--81%

Key Findings

  • A total of 457 patients aged 1-24 years participated in the HIM program over six years.
  • High patient satisfaction rates were reported, with 74% in 2020 and 81% in 2025 indicating they were very satisfied.
  • Family involvement increased following the introduction of a family-centered outpatient exercise program in 2023.
  • Participants expressed a consistent demand for more frequent exercise sessions and improved facilities.
  • Individualized care and perceived bio-psycho-social benefits were highlighted as key aspects of the program.

Clinical Implications

The HIM program demonstrates the feasibility and acceptance of exercise therapy in pediatric oncology settings. Clinicians should consider integrating structured exercise interventions into routine care to support the overall health and well-being of pediatric cancer patients and their families.

Conclusion

The HIM program's successful implementation and positive feedback underscore the value of exercise therapy in pediatric oncology. Continued development and family involvement are essential for enhancing the program's impact.

Related Resources & Content

  1. ASCO Post, Source, 2013 -- Measuring and Improving Quality in Oncology Practices
  2. Frontiers in Pediatrics, Source, 2026 -- Incidence, Characteristics and Suggestions for Prevention of Adverse Events in Supervised Pediatric Oncology Exercise Sessions
  3. Bone Marrow Transplantation, Source, 2020 -- 46th Annual Conference of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation: Oral Presentations by the Psychiatry and Psychology Group (Sessions O173-O176)
  4. Journal of Neuro-Oncology, Source, 2023 -- Development of a Comprehensive Exercise Initiative for Patients with Glioma (ActiNO): Overview of Clinical Insights
  5. BMC Pediatrics, Source, 2025 -- Effects of exercise interventions on physical recovery in paediatric cancer patients and survivors: a meta-analysis
  6. International Pediatric Oncology Exercise Guidelines (iPOEG)
  7. Effects of exercise interventions on physical recovery in paediatric cancer patients and survivors: a meta-analysis | BMC Pediatrics | Springer Nature Link
  8. Frontiers | Incidence, characteristics and suggestions for prevention of adverse events in supervised pediatric oncology exercise sessions

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