Derek aged 58, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2015. After time off work following surgery, Derek had put on weight and his Doctor recommended YMCATG’s Moving Forward Cancer Recovery Programme to help him get back on track again.
The programme runs for 12 weeks and is free to anyone living in the area over the age of 16, recovering from cancer.
Unsure of what to expect, Derek naturally felt anxious about starting the programme but was quickly put at ease when he was introduced to Pat, one of YMCATG’s specialist cancer rehabilitation instructors, who tailored the programme according to Derek’s level of fitness and ability. It wasn’t long before Derek started to notice a difference.
He said “When I first used the treadmill I could only manage a slow walk; nowadays I can run 3km in 18 minutes! Pat knew just how far to push me and it wasn’t long before I was back to my old self.”
Two years on and Derek has lost three stone in weight, regained his confidence and now feels fitter than ever. When the 12 week programme came to an end Derek was determined to continue his fitness regime and joined YMCATG’s gym in Romford. He has been a member ever since and is a familiar face in their gym.
Derek has since also returned to work full time and enjoys spending lots of quality time with his grandchildren.
