A new project at Youngstown State University aimed at helping people recover from cancer is celebrating the full recovery of one of its former students who participated.

Louis DeSimone, a Pennsylvania native that graduated from Youngstown State University, joined YSU's Cancer Rehab Program following a lung cancer diagnosis six years ago. This lead to the removal of his right lung and multiple spine cancer treatments, according to a news release from YSU.

A collaboration between YSU's Bitone College of Health and Human Services and Mercy health, the program aims to provide personalized support for those recovering from cancer within the community. 

It assists participants in setting and achieving realistic recovery goals while offering motivational support and monitoring progress. Additionally, the program focuses on helping individuals regain their independence by developing daily living skills, building support networks and creating newfound self-efficacy, according to YSU.

DeSimone attributes much of his improved quality of life to the YSU Cancer Rehab program, which has improved his mental outlook and physical endurance.

Lung cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer today. It is considered to be the leading cause of cancer death in the country. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined, according to the American Cancer Society.