"Support and activity after my breast cancer diagnosis"

I received a breast cancer diagnosis in Jan 24 at which point everything I knew and was familiar with came to a standstill. My fulfilling work and social life was replaced with endless hospital appointments and fear and dread.

The weeks and months that followed focused on a treatment plan of surgery, chemo, radiotherapy and a new regime of tablet taking. I went from feeling fit and healthy to fatigued and unable to do simple tasks due to the physical and mental effects of the treatment. All support was so appreciated and welcome to help the process of recovery and which is where Joe, Physical Activity Coach from Friends of the Cancer Centre, was extremely helpful.

I was introduced to Joe and his 12 week physical programme as a way to rebuild my strength and gently restart exercise. I looked forward to the Tues morning online sessions which were a motivation in themselves to get up from bed and get dressed/washed.

The 45-minute sessions were well structured and at a level everyone could follow and participate in. Instructions were clear and Joe provided personal feedback to each person to maximise their experience and improve progress. There was always an opportunity to ask questions.

After each session I felt a sense of achievement and more mentally strong for the rest of the day. Joe and the programme have been an integral part of my physical and mental recovery and diverted me from needing more specialist care at a time when resources are stretched.