TWO women from Warrington, who have finished LiveWire’s Cancer Rehab programme, are encouraging more people to sign up for support to mark today’s World Cancer Day.
Friends Lynne Watson and Pat Daintith took part in the six week course at Orford Jubilee Neighbourhood Hub during their treatment for breast cancer.
During the course the two women, who live in Appleton, were given physical and psychological support to help them through various stages of their treatment after being referred to the programme by their GPs and breast cancer nurses.
The programme supports cancer patients to complete a range of personalised exercise sessions, relaxation techniques, and occupational therapy, and also gives healthy eating advice and support with regulating emotions.
Lynne, 69, said: “The programme provided me with a platform to talk to other people who were suffering with cancer, and really helped me stay positive throughout my treatment.
“The two course leaders at LiveWire, Tom Kearny and Matt Fairhurst, were fantastic and really put me at ease during every stage of the programme.”
Lynne introduced her friend Pat, 64, to the course after she lost her husband to cancer and was diagnosed with breast cancer herself.
Pat added: “Joining the Cancer Rehab programme made me realise that I wasn’t alone in my journey.
“The support I received was fantastic and helped me both mentally and physically. I’d encourage anyone else who is suffering with cancer to sign up.”
Both Pat and Lynne have had two clear mammograms since finishing the programme.
The course, which is commissioned by NHS Warrington Clinic Commissioning Group, was launched back in 2014 to provide additional support for individuals undergoing treatment and to maximise the outcome of cancer treatment.
It is important for those suffering with cancer to undertake light exercise as it can help reduce some of the side effects of treatment such as, fatigue, breathlessness, lymphoedema, anxiety, loss of muscle strength and poor appetite.
It is now possible to take part in the Cancer Rehab programme on a self-referral basis, so anyone who has been diagnosed or is receiving treatment for cancer, can call LiveWire’s Lifestyles team on 0300 003 0818 or email: [email protected]
