Lisa, 53, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022. Lisa is a regular at YMCA Romford and has been a member of the gym for over 20 years. In fact, her membership card was one of the first to be printed in plastic and distributed back in 2003! Lisa has always loved keeping fit and enjoys Circuit, Pump and RPM classes.
Lisa was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram in July 2022. She had a lumpectomy a few weeks later and then went on to have a course of radiotherapy in January this year (2023).
Already aware of our cancer rehab programme through the friendships she’s made at the Y, Lisa was keen to get started. She also knows Pat, one of our specialist cancer rehabilitation instructors, who tailored the programme to suit Lisa’s level of fitness and ability.
Our cancer rehab programme runs for 12 weeks and is free to anyone over the age of 16 who is living in the area and recovering from cancer.
Lisa started the programme in September 2022 and completed it after her course of radiotherapy in November 2022 – it wasn’t long before she noticed a big difference in her stamina and wellbeing.
She said “It was great to try new exercises – it really helped me push myself!
“The programme has helped me build my confidence and regain my fitness. I am even more committed to training – to keep healthy as well as for my own mental health.”
When the programme came to an end, Lisa set herself a goal of being able to complete a 10k run. On 20 May 2023, she smashed it and completed the run in just 1 hour 6 minutes!
Lisa has since been given the all clear and attends annual check-ups. She has exceeded her own expectations in terms of fitness and now has her confidence back.
To find out more about our cancer rehab programme and how you can help us to continue to support people diagnosed with cancer in your local community, visit www.ymcatg.org.
