When Vicky, 47, was diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2023, her life changed overnight.
The months that followed were incredibly challenging. Vicky underwent two surgeries, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, facing the physical and emotional impact of cancer treatment. Yet despite everything she was going through, she remained determined to regain her strength and get her life back on track.
During her recovery, Vicky attended a Macmillan information session at YMCA Romford, where she learned about our Cancer Rehabilitation Programme. Seeing it as an opportunity to take a positive step forward, she signed up there and then.
In June 2025, Vicky began the programme with YMCA instructor Michael. From the very first session, she approached every exercise with positivity, determination and a willingness to challenge herself. Together, they worked through a personalised programme designed to help rebuild her strength, improve her fitness and support her recovery following treatment.
Over the course of 10 weeks, Vicky made steady progress. As her physical strength improved, so did her confidence. Each session helped her feel a little stronger, a little fitter and a little more like herself again.
The impact was so significant that, after completing the programme, Vicky chose to continue her fitness journey through ongoing one-to-one personal training sessions with Michael.
Vicky’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery doesn’t stop when treatment ends. For many people, the journey back to feeling strong, confident and independent can take time. With the right support, that journey becomes easier.
At YMCA Thames Gateway, we’re proud to help people like Vicky take positive steps forward, improving their physical and emotional wellbeing and helping them regain confidence after cancer treatment.
YMCA’s Cancer Rehabilitation Programme runs for 10 weeks and is free to anyone over the age of 16, living in the area and recovering from cancer.
To find out more about our Cancer Rehabilitation Programme and how you can help us continue to support people diagnosed with cancer in your local community, visit: www.ymcatg.org.
Donate today and give more people like Vicky a second chance – https://ymcatg.org/support-us/.
