Get moving as aid to cancer recovery

Exercise is pertinent to the recovery of cancer patients according to cancer nurse Susan Hyde.

Recognising the need to remain healthy and active throughout treatment spurred the creation of B Well, an eight- week program at Bodycare Physiotherapy.

Partnering with local breast cancer survivor and spokeswoman Barb Cruickshank, the program is designed to support and empower female cancer patients who have been diagnosed in the past two years.

“It is well reported in the literature that when you are under-going treatment for cancer, so chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, if you are able to exercise then it actually helps in your recovery,” Ms Hyde said.

“One of the side-effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy is fatigue ... if you formalise (exercise) and have classes then people will come to them.

“They will do it in a group, a supportive environment with other people who are going through the same things.

“It’s a cancer journey not just about having the treatment — it’s your wellness.”

The program will focus on general fitness such as cardiovascular as well as strength and flexibility.

The 2017 program will begin next Wednesday and run from 1-3pm.

Enrolments can be made through Bodycare Physiotherapy.